27/10/2026
THE END OF AN ERA. ❤️
After 33 years, we’re incredibly sad to announce that The Middlesbrough Empire will close its doors on 17th November, following a change in ownership.
With the new ownership comes a new chapter for the building, and the current owners, management team and all existing staff will no longer be part of its future. For those of us who have been part of The Empire, this marks the end of a very special era.
For 33 years, The Empire has been more than just a venue. It has been a place where friendships have been made, memories created, celebrations shared and countless nights out enjoyed. We’ve welcomed thousands of people through our doors, worked alongside some incredible people and been fortunate enough to play a part in the nightlife and entertainment scene of Middlesbrough.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank every member of staff, past and present, every artist, promoter, supplier, partner and, most importantly, every single customer who has supported us over the years. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or only discovered us recently, you’ve all played a part in our story, and we’re genuinely grateful.
Before the doors close for the final time in its existing form, we want to give The Empire the send-off it deserves, we wish the new owners good luck as we vacate our church.
On 13th and 14th November, we’ll be hosting our final closing party weekend, featuring Sugarshack and Mode. Tickets are already running low, and we’d love nothing more than to see the venue filled with familiar faces, old friends and people who have helped make The Empire what it is today.
A quick note for anyone with tickets for events scheduled after 17th November: these events will no longer take place at The Empire. They will be relocated to alternative venues, and we ask that you please keep an eye on your emails for further information and details of where your event will be taking place.
So, from all of us, thank you. Thank you for the years of support, the unforgettable nights, the laughter, the dancing and the memories that will stay with us long after the lights go out.
Let’s make these final nights count.
Join us for one last dance. One last weekend. One last chance to go out on a high.
❤️ *Thank you for 33 incredible years.
