HLN’s ultimate guide to what’s on in Newcastle this Christmas szn

From annual pantos to winter workshops, Newcastle always delivers on the Christmas spirit.

This festive season we’ll be spotlighting all of the things to do in each area of the North East, starting off strong with Newcastle.

So, whether you’re looking for an evening activity to spend with your besties or want a quiet spot to chill out with your partner this winter – we have got you covered.

Here is our ultimate guide to what is happening in Newcastle this Christmas season…

Northern Lights Newcastle

Where: Leazes Park, Richardson Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE2 4BJ

When: 22nd November – 31st December 2024

Price: From £14.95

Leazes Park presents its annual light trail, guiding you through an array of enticing illuminations and special effects. The mile-long trail showcases 14 unique light installations, including a stunning lakeside display throughout the city’s oldest park. With the trail being created uniquely by world-leading light designers, it’s something you can’t miss out on. So grab your tickets and get ready to be transported to a magical festive place this winter. Tickets are selling quickly so be quick…

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Fenwick Christmas Window

Where: Fenwick, Northumberland Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 7AS

When: Launching online Sunday 3rd November, then open from Monday 4th November  

Price: Free

It’s safe to say the Fenwick Christmas window display signifies the start of the festive period for any northerner, and for over 50 years, their window reveal has been etched on many of our calendars. The window display is free to view and is especially popular with families. It runs right throughout the festive period, bringing joy and excitement to Newcastle and creating a sense of wonder for children and adults alike. This year, the grand reveal will be streamed on their social media channels from 6:30 pm, so be sure to set your reminders and place your bets on what this year’s theme could be. After that, you can pop along to see it in person any time from Monday 4th November. 

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Theatre Royal Pantomime

Where: Newcastle Theatre Royal, 100 Grey St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6BR

When: 26th November 2024 – 12th January 2025

Price: From £13.00

It wouldn’t be the festive period without a pantomime, and this year the Theatre Royal presents The Little Mermaid recreating the classic in true panto style. You can join Newcastle father and son panto duo Danny and Clive for a night of under the sea magic. Known for its lively, family-friendly performances, this pantomime combines music, slapstick comedy and classic fairy tales delivering them with a local twist. So be sure to grab your tickets booked you don’t miss out on the magic.

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Ice Skating @ The Centre for Life

Where: Centre For Life, Times Square, Newcastle, NE1 4EP

When: 9th November 2024 – 5th January 2025

Price: From £10.50

Situated in Times Square, just outside of the Centre for Life, this outdoor ice rink runs throughout the Christmas period, giving skaters of all ages and abilities the ultimate festive experience. Whether you’re looking for a fun festive date activity or want to have some fun with friends, this is the place for you.

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Christmas light switch-on

Where: Northumberland Street, Newcastle

When: Tuesday 12th November

Price: Free

Signifying the start of this year’s festivities, Newcastle’s Christmas light switch-on always promises a fun-filled evening for all of the family. Providing the perfect opportunity to get into the holiday spirit, you’ll be able to watch the city illuminate its festive lights, which will become the city’s guide to its Christmas market, opening its doors later in the week. So, if you want an excuse to get wrapped up warm and experience the start of the city’s festivities, this is definitely a good place to start.

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Return of the Reindeer @ Three Mile Gosforth

Where: Three Mile Gosforth, Great North Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 2DS

When: Friday 15th November, 5pm

Price: Free

The iconic giant reindeer at The Three Mile returns for another year at their annual light switch-on. The event will offer hot drinks, children’s entertainment and plenty of festive cheer, creating the perfect place for you to enjoy some festive fun with your loved ones. So mark your calendars and get ready to say hello to the famous reindeer, alongside a night of festive fun.

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Moosenwirt

Where: Grey Street, Newcastle

When: From 16th November

Price: Free entry (drinks and food prices will vary)

An HLN favourite, this alpine-themed bar situated on Grey Street in the city’s heart provides the perfect spot to enjoy a festive tipple and warm yourself up this winter. Bringing a taste of Austrian Après ski to the city, this bar is sure to bring all of your cosy, rustic, ski lodge dreams to life. Moosenwirt offers a range of warming drinks, from mulled wine to hot chocolate, catering to everyone’s needs. If that isn’t enough, the bar will also serve classic alpine food, including bratwurst sausages and pretzels.

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The Stand Christmas Special

Where: The Stand, 31 High Bridge, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 1EW

When: From 12th December

Price: From £15

If you’re looking for a place to have a proper laugh over this year’s festive period – The Stand has got you covered. Known for their live stand-up comedy shows and diverse lineups, their Christmas Special is sure to provide all of this and more. So forget wearing paper hats and eating over-priced turkey – instead, come and get some Christmas cheer from some of the UK’s best comics. This is the perfect event for some top-class comedy and good grub.

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The Crafty Bazaar @ Wylam Brewery

Where: Wylam Brewery, Claremont Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE2 4PZ

When: Sunday 1st December and Sunday 8th December

Price: £2.50

With not one but two festive editions of Crafty Bazaar, head to Wylam Brewery to get your craft on this Christmas. With a whole host of crafters, creators and makers who will be showing off their uniquely crafted wares – think homeware, clothing, food and plenty more. And with a bar to keep you hydrated throughout, it is the perfect opportunity to tick some things off this year’s Christmas shopping list. Whether you have something in mind for a loved one or are looking for some inspiration, you can find it all here. 

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Can’t wait for the festivities to begin?

Get stuck in this year’s celebrations with some of the most magical Christmas events in Newcastle this winter.

Get in there first and book your festive celebrations for you and your loved ones while you can.

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Emma Rowell

Journalism graduate and freelance writer born and bred in the North East.

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