Inspiration on things to see, eat, drink and do across Newcastle this festive season.
Christmas in Newcastle is a wonderful time, 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 throughout the long winter. Happy Noel, everyone!
Gaze at the 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! Mark up your diary, as this year’s big switch-on happens 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 chilly, 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 eateries and venues across Newcastle usually unveil a special menu brimming with seasonal flavours and ingredients – think delights such as cinnamon, cranberry and orange. Look out for tempting offerings from The Vermont, Dreamworld Cakes, and Leila Lily’s.
Explore Newcastle's Christmas village and market stalls
Lots of exciting plans have been announced for Newcastle city centre this winter. The space around Grey’s Monument will play host to 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 snuggly spot for a seasonal tipple while getting toasty by the fire and enjoying live acoustic music.
Sip on a Christmas 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.
Be captivated by a Christmas by Candlelight concert
Candlelight concerts have been all the rage this past year, pairing instrumental performances with the most spectacular, atmospheric surroundings. Several shows 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 and children’s tickets starting from £11.50. Cheaper rates are also available to members.
Wander along the Northern Lights trail
Northern Lights is an enchanting mile-long light 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. (Read my pocket guide to the trail here.)
Be spellbound by The Nutcracker at Tyne Theatre & Opera House
The Nutcracker is a classic Christmas ballet with memorable characters such as the Nutcracker Prince, Rat King and Sugar Plum Fairy. It also features some of the most beautiful and instantly recognisable music from the ballet world. You can see Imperial Classic Ballet’s production at Tyne Theatre & Opera House on 26th October.
Watch a feel-good film at Tyneside Cinema
Popcorn at the ready! If you’re an avid movie-goer, head to Tyneside Cinema 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 returns on 23rd and 24th November, offering a unique insight into the working world of local artists and makers. Fourteen venues across the Ouseburn valley are taking part and you can expect an eclectic programme of seasonal pop ups, demos and live music. It’s also a chance to find unique handmade gifts, original art and stocking fillers.
Party at Wylam Brewery's Jolly Good Bash
A hog roast, scrumptious desserts, plenty of fizz and a live band combine to 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
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 Blackfriars Cookery School. It costs £160 per person and takes place on 30th November from 9.30am to 4.30pm.
For more cool ideas on things to see and do in Newcastle, follow me on Instagram at @nclsparkles.
*Please check with individual venues and businesses to confirm information such as dates, times, and pricing.
