The festive season is almost upon us so why not Step into Christmas with our top tips on the best things to do in NewcastleGateshead this year!
To find out more or to book your break go to www.newcastlegateshead.com
1). Fenwick Christmas Window Reveal
From Nov 4th
https://www.fenwick.co.uk/events/kids/fenwick-christmas-window-reveal2024/Fenwick-Christmas-Window-Reveal-2024
A trip to NewcastleGateshead at Christmas time wouldn’t be the same without a visit to see the Fenwick Christmas Window.
This year, the much-anticipated Christmas Window Reveal will take place on Sunday 3rd November to an audience of ballot winners. For over 50 years, Fenwick has brought the Newcastle community together through its iconic Christmas window on Northumberland Street, and at Fenwick, Christmas starts in our windows.
The Fenwick Christmas window will then be open for public viewing from Monday 4th November and throughout the festive season.
2). Newcastle’s Christmas Village
Nov 16th – Dec 24th
This year Newcastle’s Christmas Market is expanding with more Alpine activities and seasonal pop-ups including a festive family area in Old Eldon Square. The Christmas Village will have a Santa Stories’ tipi, ‘Elf Workshop’, ‘Rocking Reindeer’ and a beautiful vintage carousel. Along with this exciting new family area, there will also be a spectacular Christmas social experience at the Monument, with your very own ‘North Pole’ featuring Luxury igloos overlooking Grey Street and beyond, as well as the return of Moosenvirt Alpine Bar.
3). Get your Skates on
Life Science Centre – Ice Rink Re-opening
https://www.life.org.uk/whats-on/event/ice-skating/
Nov 9 – Jan 5. Prices from £15 Adult; £13.50 Child and £46 Family
If you’re looking for something a little different to do over Christmas, make it one to remember with a festive whirl on Centre for Life’s open-air ice rink. Booking is essential, there will be no walk-up slots available on the day.
4). Join Santa’s Elf Academy
https://themetrocentre.co.uk/whats-on/events/the-elf-academy-at-metrocentre
From Nov 16-Dec 24 (Ideal for ages 18mnths-10 years)
Join Santa’s Elf Academy at the MetroCentre and learn all the skills needed to become honorary elves! This magical, interactive experience promises to bring the enchantment of Christmas to life for children and families.
Your training will include:
Northern Lights Laser Training: Children will take on the ultimate laser maze challenge as part of their elf training.
Stealthy Present-Placing Practice: Kids will practice their gifting techniques to ensure presents are delivered with precision!
Elf & Fitness Class: Young elves will engage in fun, energetic activities designed to get them moving and fit, preparing them for the busy holiday season ahead.
5). Northern Lights, Newcastle
Nov 22- Dec 31, Leazes Park, Newcastle
https://northernlightsnewcastle.com/
Get ready to be dazzled as Northern Lights returns to Newcastle’s Leazes Park from 22nd November 2024 to 31st December 2024.
This magical Christmas light trail will transform the historic park into a winter wonderland with enchanting illuminations, captivating zones, and a festive food village that’s bigger and better than ever. Perfect for visitors of all ages, Northern Lights is the must-see event of the season!
6). Festive Films and theatre at Newcastle Castle
Various Dates in December
https://www.newcastlecastle.co.uk/
Come and enjoy for favourite festive film in the grand surroundings of the medieval Great Hall at Newcastle Castle. This year’s offerings are the Christmas Classics: Elf and The Muppet’s Christmas Carol.
There’s also festive theatre with A Christmas Carol, a one-man performance by Jonathan Goodwin as well as a Candelit Carol Concert.
7). Xmas Pop Up Bar, Newcastle
Nov 15- Dec 23
Christmas in Newcastle brought to you by Rusty’s & Rusty’s Showbar will be the perfect stop for a Christmas Cocktail and Small Festive Plates
Located in the New Rusty’s Lounge With a nostalgic approach to festive décor, guests are transported back in time to Christmas past. Inspired by an 80’s Christmas home with retro decorations, coloured lights and even a Christmas Fireplace.
8). Lazy Bear – Return of the Teepee near Central Station
https://www.wearelazybear.com/
Open EVERYDAY from 11am to midnight
The venue is back with exciting new features that are sure to captivate visitors throughout the holiday season. For 2024, Lazy Bear brings an even larger heated outdoor area, perfect for groups looking to enjoy their drinks and food while staying cosy amid the winter chill. The venue, known for its charm, fire pits, and friendly service, has been a staple of Newcastle’s festive season, and this year promises to be no different. The outdoor seating now includes more comfortable options, with new decor to match the festive cheer, ensuring there’s no better spot in town to relax and soak in the holiday vibes.
9). Christmas at The Glasshouse
Various events from Thurs Nov 28th – Wed Jan 1
https://theglasshouseicm.org/seasons/christmas-at-the-glasshouse-2024/
Grab an eggnog and enjoy a night of festive films. Cosy concerts and an advent calendar filled with toe-tapping treats that’ll take you through to New Year.
There is everything from the Northern Sinfonia’s Winter Tour; Home Alone in Concert and Christmas at the Musicals.
*If you’re looking for something outside of the city we can recommend:
10). Cragside, home of the UK’s largest Christmas Tree
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/north-east/cragside/christmas-at-cragside
Nov 30 – Jan 5
This year Cragside is taking Christmas to new heights and going big! Witness the UK’s Tallest Living Christmas Tree. A mammoth 42m Giant Redwood dressed in over 2000 lights. Cragside’s Spirits of the Forest have cast a magical spell. Explore the enchanted House that is being reclaimed by the woodland and follow the sparkling Twilight Lantern Walk through the Debdon Valley.
11). Beamish – Christmas at Beamish: A Festive Evening, Father Christmas’ Grotto
https://www.beamish.org.uk/christmas/
5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th & 20th December 2024, 5-9.30pm
Adult £21, Child (2-16 years) £13.50
Immerse yourself in an extra special enchanting evening at Beamish. Enjoy twinkling lights, festive entertainment, and seasonal treats under the night sky. Add an extra festive experience to your evening visit and meet Father Christmas in his festive Grotto at Rowley Station Goods Yard.
Christmas Daytimes at Beamish – Details still to be announced.
Step back in time and enjoy the wonder of Christmas from across our time periods.
From the Georgian period through to the 1950s, delight in traditional decorations, tasty yuletide treats, festive music and lots of fun activities to help you count down to Christmas.
12). Winter Lights, The Alnwick Garden & Lilidorei
https://www.alnwickgarden.com/events/winter-lights/
Nov 18 – Jan 1
The North East’s favourite Light Trail is back and it is bigger than ever. Not only can you see the lights in The Alnwick Garden you can also see the lights in Lilidorei. Two attractions, one great price.
An immersive experience of light and sound, this year is bigger and better than ever with new installations set to a brand new soundtrack.
See The Garden and Lilidorei like never before and experience the perfect winter tradition this Christmas.
*Book tickets separately to see Father Christmas in his grotto at Lilidorei
