Christmas events to book now in NewcastleGateshead

Christmas in the Toon is a magical time and before we know it, it will be here! There's no better time than the present to start booking the most enchanting events to make your holiday season truly magical

From festive markets that twinkle with holiday lights to heart-warming light trails and outdoor ice-skating, there's an array of events to choose from. Don't wait too long, as these magical experiences tend to fill up quickly, and securing your reservations early promises an unforgettable Christmas celebration.

Read on to discover the Christmas events in NewcastleGateshead to book now.

Fenwick's Santa on the Rooftop is a sell out each year and notoriously hard to grab tickets for. If you have missed out, don't worry! Santa on the Rooftop is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Fenwick at Christmas.

Treat your family to a magical Afternoon Tea with Santa, a festive feast of flavour and fun at The Terrace Restaurant. Available every Saturday from 9th to 26th November, and daily from Tuesday to Saturday from 26th November to 21st December (with an extra date on 23rd December), this enchanting experience features delicious sandwiches, scones, and festive treats for adults and children alike. Young guests will receive an elf hat, enjoy Christmas-themed coloring, and meet Santa for a special photo moment and an early gift. Tickets are £32 per person. Book your tickets here. 

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Make magical memories this Christmas at Newcastle's popular family attraction, Life Science Centre with a visit to their outdoor ice skating rink in Times Square. Experience a winter wonderland with even the promise of a little snow in Times Square for the return of Life's ever-popular ice rink. The seasonal ice rink is the only open-air ice rink in Newcastle and Gateshead this Christmas and a perennial favourite for families looking for a festive day out.

Tickets for Christmas Eve and New Years Eve are already selling fast, so make sure you get your skates on and book online in advance so you don't miss out. Tickets are for timed slots and it is strongly advised to book online. Limited afternoon tickets will be available for walk-ups on the day.

Don't miss the Santa Experience at Life. Join Santa in the amazing planetarium and gaze upwards as he flies around the globe on Christmas Eve to deliver presents. Then visit the man himself and see some exciting festive science demonstrations. After the show, join Santa’s favourite Elf, Twinkle, for a hot chocolate and sweet treat in the café.

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Join The Victoria Tunnel for the return of their beloved Christmas in the Victoria Tunnel experience, running for just four magical Sundays leading up to Christmas! This year’s enchanting theme is "Down The Chimney". Santa has gotten himself stuck in the deepest, darkest chimney! Embark on an adventure to meet Santa’s hardworking elves, climb past the fireplace, navigate through the soot, and help out the steeplejack. Can you crack the clues and rescue Santa in time?

This interactive experience is designed to delight children of all ages and includes a special gift for each child. While it’s best suited for children aged 4 and up, babies under one year are welcome to join their families at no cost (please note, babies must be carried throughout the experience). Meeting Point: The entrance to the Victoria Tunnel. Families will begin the tour in staggered intervals to ensure everyone gets a memorable moment with Santa. Please arrive a few minutes before your selected time slot. Book here.

Experience the magic of Christmas across the ages at Beamish Museum! From Georgian greenery to 1950s festivities, enjoy traditional decorations, yuletide treats, music, and fun activities for all ages. Highlights include spotting hidden woolly Beamish characters, exploring Elf Wood, and joining a Christ-mouse trail in The 1900s Town. Meet Father Christmas or Mrs. Claus on weekends as they travel by horse-drawn carriage. Visit the 1820s Pockerley Old Hall for Georgian festivities, enjoy Edwardian cobbled streets with decorated shops and festive treats, and see wartime Christmas preparations at The 1940s Farm. In The 1950s Town, explore the toy shop, festive cinema, and welfare hall, or try a vintage hairstyle. With hearty food, indulgent drinks, and endless charm, it’s a celebration not to miss! See more here. 

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Experience the magic of Northern Lights as it transforms Newcastle's Leazes Park into a dazzling winter wonderland until 31st December 2024. This mile-long Christmas light trail features 12-15 stunning installations, vintage fairground rides, and an expanded festive food village brimming with delights like gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and sweet treats. Perfect for all ages, the event offers cosy pit stops with mulled wine and hot chocolate, creating cherished holiday memories. Open evenings, it's an enchanting escape with captivating illuminations, local food vendors, and nostalgic charm in the heart of Newcastle.

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This Christmas, Metrocentre transforms into a festive haven with sparkling new decorations, extended shopping hours, and magical experiences for all ages. Highlights include a real ice rink, Santa’s Elf Academy and Grotto, a Marie Curie gift-wrapping station, and creative workshops like wreath-making. Visitors can give back through initiatives like the Mission Christmas Giving Box and Citizens Advice Winter Warmer Donation Point. Enjoy festive shopping, family-friendly attractions, and seasonal treats in a dazzling winter wonderland that promises to make your Christmas stress-free and extra special. Find out more and book. 

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With its warm North East charm, buzzing Christmas markets, beautiful lights, and historic architecture, NewcastleGateshead is the perfect festive break. Whether you're there to shop, sightsee, or just soak up the holiday cheer, the city has it all. Discover 10 reasons why NewcastleGateshead is the perfect UK Christmas break...