Whether you’re a local or visiting the city, Newcastle offers a variety of events and activities to get you into the holiday spirit, and there are some key Christmas dates to look out for over the next week. It’s all too easy to miss some, as they’re as early as the start of November, and judging by how well my Instagram reel did I think people would find it useful to have them all in one place. From the iconic Fenwick’s Window Reveal to outdoor ice skating at the Centre for Life, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s the key Newcastle Christmas dates for 2024 to add to your diary.

This year, the festivities kick off as early as 3rd November and continue all the way through New Year’s Eve and some even into January. Here’s all the key dates for Christmas events in Newcastle, as well as links to more information for each event, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the city’s best seasonal celebrations.

3rd Nov – Fenwick’s Window Reveal

The festive season in Newcastle begins with the highly anticipated Fenwick’s Window Reveal on 3rd November. As always we don’t know what it’s going to be, but we always have high hopes for a good one. The past few years have had mixed responses, so here’s hoping the Fenwick’s window for 2024 is a good one. Regardless, visiting the windows is a must-see tradition especially for the locals, the reveal draws large crowds each year and you can also watch live online.

For more details, visit Fenwick’s website. The Paddington Bear year in 2017 will always be my favourite and with a new film coming I really hope it’s similar, but they rarely repeat or do anything similar!

12th Nov – Newcastle Christmas Light Switch On

On 12th November, the city will light up with its annual Christmas Light Switch On. Hosted in the heart of Newcastle, by local radio hosts Steve and Karen and some of the cast from the Little Mermaid pants, the lights will be turned on at 7pm. It’s a free event and marks the official start of the city’s Christmas celebrations.

Full details are available on NewcastleGateshead’s website.

16th Nov – 22nd Dec – Newcastle Christmas Market & Moosenwirt

From 16th November to 22nd December, the Newcastle Christmas Market returns, offering a festive shopping experience around Grey’s Monument. This year in addition to this there is a new Family Christmas village with interactive opportunities around old Eldon Square. The stalls are often local businesses, selling everything from local crafts to delicious seasonal treats, it’s the perfect place to find Christmas gifts and enjoy festive food. Moosenwirt will also return this year on Grey Street, as well as a North Pole themed area around Monument. NE1 have summarised what to expect here.

9th Nov – 5th Jan – Centre for Life Ice Rink

For some outdoor fun, head to the Centre for Life’s ice rink, which opens from 9th November right through the New Year to 5th January. A favourite winter activity in Newcastle for families, the ice rink is in Times Square by the Centre for Life. Tickets are available on the Life Science Centre’s website.

22nd Nov – 31st Dec – Northern Light Trail at Leazes Park

The Northern Light Trail at Leazes Park was a big hit last year, and it returns again for 2024 from 22nd November to 31st December. This illuminated trail features light displays throughout the park just behind St James’, and a festive food village with local street food traders and some rides. I’m not sure what it will be like this year but last year it wasn’t Christmassy, it was beautiful but didn’t have a Christmas theme to it – just so you’re aware. For more details and tickets, visit Northern Light Trail’s website.

From 19th Nov – Tyneside Cinema Christmas Films

Get cosy at Tyneside Cinema with a series of Christmas films starting from 19th November. Featuring classics like Home Alone and It’s a Wonderful Life, this is a great way to enjoy a quieter afternoon or evening of festive fun. Some of the showings even have a festive afternoon tea alongside. Book your tickets via Tyneside Cinema’s website.

31st Dec – Newcastle NYE Laser Light Show

Ring in 2025 with Newcastle’s New Year’s Eve Laser Light Show, which returns to the Quayside on 31st December. This free event offers three light shows at 6 pm, 9 pm, and midnight, providing a stunning visual display to welcome the new year and lighting up the Tyne Bridge.

These are the key Newcastle Christmas dates for 2024, mark your diaries and remember they all get pretty busy so plan your transport, parking, tickets if required and and restaurant bookings around your plans so you aren’t left disappointed.

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