4: Newcastle Gateshead Initiative
Take a look at all the festive fun that Newcastle has to offer this Christmas:
For the perfect winter activity, head to Newcastle city centre and visit the Christmas Markets. Extending throughout Grainger Street, Old Eldon Square, Grey Street and Grainger Market, there’s more to marvel at than ever. Browse the stalls from market traders such as Meat Stack, Moosenwirt, Redheads Mac and Cheese and more while sipping mulled wine and cosying round a fire.
Following last year’s success, Laser Light City will once again hit Newcastle for three consecutive nights over New Year’s Eve. With over 80 lasers installed around the quayside area and a choreographed laser show every hour, this year is not one to miss.
Grainger Market Sunday Opening
Opened to the public in 1835 after a huge, Grainger Market is Newcastle’s first supermarket and is an integral part of the city to this day. With local traders and businesses ranging from florists, jewellers, artisan bakers, greengrocers, quality butchers, vintage boutiques, craft stalls and souvenir shops, the market will be open from 11am to 4pm on Sunday in the run-up to Christmas and will be open seven days a week.
Santa’s Supper Club at Fenwick Newcastle
Santa’s Supper Club will be running at Arthur’s Restaurant at Fenwick Newcastle until Friday 23 December and invites children and parents to join Santa Clause himself (and his elves!) for a delicious and seasonal two-course supper. While the adults enjoy a glass of fizz and their meals, the little ones can enjoy a bit of colouring and don their specially-gifted festive elf hats.
Beauty and the Beast at Tyne Theatre and Opera House
Coming to the Tyne Theatre and the Opera House this winter is this star-studded production of Beauty and the Beast. Union J’s JJ Hamblett will take on the role as the Prince/Beast, the Sugababes’ Amelle Berrabah will star as the ‘Good Fairy’ and the North East’s very own home-grown talent Beth Clarke will be this year’s Belle.
Danny Adams will lead a stellar cast of panto favourites including Clive Webb and Chris Hayward in this brand-new production of Cinderella. Costumes and sets will be provided by The London Palladium and X Factor’s Joe McElderry will make his return as The Fairy Godfather.
Get your skates on and head to head to the outdoor ice rink at the Life Science Centre. The only open-air ice rink in Newcastle and Gateshead, this is the perfect family activity to create those unmissable magic moments. With the option of super saver combo tickets, you can combine your ice skating session with a science centre visit, creating even more room to make memories.
This enchanting trail of illuminations will make its return to the stunning Georgian garden at the National Trust’s Gibside estate this winter. Get those hats and scarves on and come along to marvel at the sparkling tunnels of light, giant baubles and dazzling illuminated trees. There will also be a selection of tasty treats on offer from independent street food vendors as well as seasonal spiced winter warmers or hot chocolate.
Ouseburn Christmas Outdoor Market
This year sees the second annual Ouseburn Christmas Market open to the public to celebrate the creativity of Newcastle’s cultural quarter and offer the chance to get those perfect Christmas gifts for your loved ones.
Washington Wetlands Centre Elf Academy
A school like no other, the Washington Wetlands Centre Elf Academy will provide a unique education in all-things-elf. Enrol in special workshops that will teach you all you need to earn your Elf Diploma, including ‘elf and safety guidelines, the spirit of kindness, gift wrapping for beginners and essential craft skills.
We hope you have a safe and magical Christmas in Newcastle, whatever you do!
The Data Thistle Team x
