Newcastle kicks off Christmas season with giant gift and festive activities

Christmas in Newcastle starts with a bang featuring festive activities and a giant gift

Newcastle kicked off its spectacular Christmas season on November 17th, 2022, spreading festive cheer across the city center. The festivities began with the unveiling of a magnificent 30ft wrapped gift in Grey's Monument, an iconic landmark in Newcastle. The enormous present, adorned with twinkling lights and a grand red bow, serves as a beacon of the holiday season and a symbol of giving and joy.

Shoppers and visitors were immersed in a captivating winter wonderland as the city's Northumberland Street transformed into a glistening spectacle of festive lights, adorned with baubles and sparkling snowflakes that illuminated the path towards Santa's Grotto in Monument Mall, where children eagerly lined up to meet the jolly man himself.

The atmosphere was filled with live music and bustling market stalls offering a vast selection of hand-crafted gifts, mouthwatering street food, and festive treats. The air was alive with the sound of carols sung by local choirs, adding to the enchanting ambiance of the city center.

The much-anticipated arrival of Father Christmas marked the official start of the festive celebrations. A procession of musicians and dancers paraded through the streets, leading the grand entrance of Santa Claus, who arrived in a horse-drawn carriage, waving to the cheering onlookers and spreading Christmas spirit throughout the city.

Newcastle's Christmas festivities extend beyond its city center, with various events and activities planned throughout the festive season. The Grainger Market will transform into a Christmas market, offering unique and locally sourced gifts and produce. The city's theaters will stage an array of festive productions, including traditional pantomimes and enchanting ballets.

The celebration continues into the new year, with the Great North Run, the world's largest half marathon, taking place on September 10th, 2023. The iconic run, which starts in Newcastle upon Tyne and finishes in South Shields, will see thousands of runners participate in a spectacular display of athleticism and community spirit.

Visitors and locals alike are invited to embrace the festive atmosphere and make lasting memories during Newcastle's spectacular Christmas season. With its captivating events, dazzling lights, and heartwarming traditions, Newcastle promises an enchanting holiday experience.