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 13 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!
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 is A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens – an absolute classic!
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? One of my favourite destinations for a hot drink is Moosenwirt, an alpine pop-up bar on Grey Street. Its fairy lights and igloos really set the scene!
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. Check out this year’s tempting offerings from Dreamworld Cakes, Jesmond Dene House and The Biscuit Factory.
Explore Newcastle's Christmas village and market stalls
Newcastle city centre has lots on offer this winter. The space around Grey’s Monument is once again playing host to a range of market stalls and heated igloos. A festive family area is also based at Old Eldon Square featuring a traditional carousel, ferris wheel and rocking reindeer stage – 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 pair instrumental performances with the most spectacular, atmospheric surroundings. Several shows are billed throughout December, including Christmas movie soundtracks and Christmas classics. 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 until Sunday 4th January 2026. Sessions last one hour, with an adult ticket priced at £15.50 and children’s tickets starting from £12.
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 27th November to 31st December.
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, The Muppet Christmas Carol, Home Alone and Love Actually are just a few highlights from its Christmas programming.
Shop original gifts at Ouseburn Open Studios
Ouseburn Open Studios returns on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November, offering a unique insight into the working world of local artists and makers. Ten 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.
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 one of the ‘Christmas & Canapes’ classes at Blackfriars Cookery School. It costs £175 per person and takes place on 13th and also 20th December.
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.
