Inspiration on things to see, eat, drink and do across Newcastle this festive season.
Christmas in Newcastle is a wonderful experience, with festive cheer and local traditions all around. And to help you plan ahead, I’ve rounded up 17 highlights that will bring sparkly, Christmassy vibes into your life this winter. Happy Noel, everyone!
See the city's streets illuminated by Christmas lights
There’s something magical about wandering around Newcastle city centre after dark and admiring the twinkling canopy of lights above Grey Street. If you like to romanticise your life, then this is your moment! This year’s big switch-on takes place on 12th November.
Visit the Fenwick Christmas window
It wouldn’t be a Geordie Christmas without Fenwick‘s captivating window display! For over 50 years, the department store has wowed us with a variety of themes, from The Snowman and Shaun the Sheep to Alice in Wonderland and Paddington Bear. This year’s display will be revealed on 3rd November. (Any guesses?)
Warm up with a boozy hot chocolate at Moosenwirt
Is there anything better than a silky smooth hot chocolate with a splash of Baileys on a cold, frosty day? Last year, one of my favourite destinations for a hot drink was Moosenwirt, an alpine pop-up bar on Grey Street, and the good news is that it’s set to return in November.
Treat yourself to a festive afternoon tea
Toast the yuletide season with an indulgent festive-themed afternoon tea. A variety of restaurants and venues across Newcastle usually unveil a special menu at this time of the year featuring seasonal flavours and ingredients. Look out for jolly good offerings from The Vermont, Dreamworld Cakes, and Leila Lily’s.
Explore the Christmas village and market stalls
Lots of exciting plans have been announced for Newcastle city centre this winter. Grey’s Monument will feature a range of market stalls and unique igloo pods. A new festive family area will also be based at Old Eldon Square featuring an elf workshop, traditional carousel, rocking reindeer stage and a 10-metre high illuminated Christmas tree, plus lots more!
Get cosy in Lazy Bear Tipi
Nestled right next to the entrance of Central Station on Neville Street, Lazy Bear Tipi is a cosy spot for a seasonal tipple while getting toasty by the fire and enjoying live acoustic music.
Sip on a Christmassy cocktail
Spiced, creamy, fruity or fizzy – there’s a festive cocktail waiting for you at one of Newcastle’s many bars! My top choice for Christmas-themed concoctions is WC Newcastle – an intimate underground bar on the Bigg Market with one of the most imaginative cocktail lists in the city.
Watch a live performance at Christmas by Candlelight
Candlelight concerts have been all the rage this past year, with tributes to popular artists such as Taylor Swift and Coldplay. Several performances are billed throughout December, including Christmas pop hits on strings and Christmas movie soundtracks. These musical events are truly mesmerising!
Go ice skating at Centre for Life
The Centre for Life‘s open-air ice rink in Times Square is another festive staple in Newcastle. Get your skates on between 9th November and 5th January 2025. Sessions last one hour, with an adult ticket priced at £15.
Wander along the Northern Lights trail
Northern Lights is an enchanting mile-long trail in Leazes Park. It’s a multi-sensory experience that winds around the lake, along the park’s tree-lined paths and beside the Victorian-style bandstand. This year’s ticketed event promises a whole new line-up of dazzling light displays, and it runs from 22nd November to 31st December.
Marvel at The Nutcracker at Tyne Theatre & Opera House
The Nutcracker is a classic Christmas ballet that features the Nutcracker Prince, Rat King and Sugar Plum Fairy, as well as some of the most beautiful and instantly recognisable scores from the theatre world. You can see Imperial Classic Ballet’s interpretation at Tyne Theatre & Opera House on 26th October.
Watch a feel-good film at Tyneside Cinema
Popcorn at the ready! For movie-goers, Tyneside Cinema is the place to go to catch some festive favourites on the silver screen. It’s a Wonderful Life, Elf, The Muppet Christmas Carol, Die Hard and Love Actually are just a few highlights from its Christmas programming.
Shop original gifts at Ouseburn Open Studios
Ouseburn Open Studios takes place on 23rd and 24th November in the Ousburn valley, offering a unique insight into the working world of local artists and makers. Expect an eclectic programme of music, seasonal pop ups and workshops, and browse a wide variety of original artworks, handmade gifts and stocking fillers.
Enjoy a Jolly Good Bash at Wylam Brewery
A hog roast, scrumptious desserts, plenty of fizz and a live band create the perfect night out for family, friends or colleagues in the lead up to Christmas. The Jolly Good Bash: Eats and Beats Festive Night at Wylam Brewery in Exhibition Park takes place on 19th December, with tickets priced at £52.80.
Attend the Made Up North Winter Market
Dubbed the ultimate late night shopping experience, the Made Up North Winter Market at the Boiler Shop will showcase more than 70 local artists, makers, bakers, and sellers. It takes place on 21st November and entry costs £3.50.
Take part in a wreath making workshop from The Flower Folk
Get creative and make your very own festive door wreath using beautiful winter foliage and natural dried materials under the expert guidance of the team at The Flower Folk – a flower, plant and gift shop in Jesmond. Classes take place throughout December and are priced at £59.50.
Get cooking at 'Christmas & Canapes' at Blackfriars
Discover how to make delicious canapés and the perfect roast turkey dinner with all the trimmings by booking onto the ‘Christmas & Canapes’ class at the locally-renowned Blackfriars Cookery School. Places are priced at £160 and it takes place on 30th November.
For more ideas on things to see and do in Newcastle, follow me on Instagram at @nclsparkles.
