10 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 real magical. From festive markets that twinkle with holiday lights to real 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 Breakfast with Santa! The event runs every Saturday and Sunday from 5th December - 20th December and additionally 21st, 2nd, 23rd and 24th December. Santa’s helpers will greet you at Colmans Restaurant, Fenwick Newcastle on the first floor before guiding you to your table for a magical morning filled with festive fun. Little ones will be treated to some Christmas colouring goodies and their very own elf hat to wear before tucking into a tasty feast fit for Santa himself. Plates empty and tummies full, it’s time to meet Santa for a photograph and an extra special Christmas gift. Book your tickets here.

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. 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, running from Saturday 7th November right up until 3rd January.

Whether you're an experienced skater or just giving it a try, the festive music and excited crowd make this an unforgettable experience. This year they're hosting a few themed skating nights where you can glide around the rink with fun music events from Skatin' to Nashville, ABBA Cold and even Toon Tunes on ice! Find out more.

Experience the magic of Christmas as the Royal Northern Sinfonia brings The Snowman to life on the big screen with a breath-taking live orchestral performance at The Glasshouse this Christmas. The festive fun begins with story time featuring We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen, before you sit back and enjoy the timeless tale of The Snowman, accompanied by a stunning live soundtrack. A perfect festive treat for all ages, catch it from 23rd-24th December! Book your tickets now.

Newcastle is set to sparkle once again this winter as Northern Lights Newcastle returns to Leazes Park. Featuring never-before-seen displays, the light trail promises to delight both returning visitors and first-timers, making 2026 the most magical year yet!

From 20th November - 31st December you can expect the brand-new theme which will rewind the wonder and let you relive the magic. Journey through the decades and relive the nostalgia of Christmas magic in an unforgettable immersive experience. At the end of the trail, visitors will also be entertained with a variety of festive treats within the Christmas Village, including the warmth of mulled wine, hot chocolate, and toasted marshmallows, as well as vintage fairground rides. Book your tickets here.

Head to Baltic in Gateshead for their Festive Afternoon Tea on their Level 6 Rooftop from 28th November - 31st December! On the menu there are finger sandwiches with a seasonal twist, freshly baked scones with clotted cream & jam, plus a fanciful collection of cakes & pastries, all accompanied by fine teas, festive fizz or mulled wine all while looking out at the NewcastleGateshead skyline. From £28 per person or £33 per person with prosecco or a mulled wine. Book here.

Watch the beloved pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk as it returns to Theatre Royal Newcastle this festive season from 24th November - 17th January. Starring local lad Joe McElderry, Danny Adams, Clive Webb plus many more. It's packed with laugh-out-loud comedy, staggering special effects, and larger-than-life fun, Jack and the Beanstalk is pantomime at its absolute best - the panto you’ve bean waiting for. Book here.

Grab your ears and wave your magic wands as Mickey Mouse and his friends are gliding back into Newcastle this November with a sparkling new ice adventure at Utilita Arena. From 11th - 15th November get ready for Disney On Ice presents Discover the Magic which features world-class skating, high flying acrobatics and everyone’s favourite Disney stories brought to life on ice. Enjoy songs and scenes from Moana, Frozen, Encanto, Toy Story, Coco, Aladdin and more! Book tickets here.

On 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th of December, bring the whole family to experience the magic of the festive season at Beamish for their Festive Evenings. Travel back into an enchanting Christmas past, as you join in celebrations from Georgian times up to the new 1950s exhibits. Enjoy merry music, delightful decorations and delicious festive treats as you make Christmas memories with your loved ones.

Discover the delights of the Edwardian Town street, explore traditionally decorated homes and shops, be entertained by musicians playing festive tunes, enjoy Christmas crafts, take a whimsical wander through Elf Wood, and don’t forget to browse the stalls for those perfect presents. Plus, be sure to visit Father Christmas in his cosy Grotto at Rowley Station Goods Yard. Book here.

Make this Christmas truly magical aboard the Elf Express at Stephenson Steam Railway. From 5th - 23rd December, enjoy a live performance from Santa and his Elves, before boarding a festive-themed heritage train ride. Meet the mischievous Chief Elf and the jolly man himself, Santa Claus, as they join you on a journey packed with entertainment, Christmas tunes, and festive fun. Capture the magic with plenty of photo opportunities, enjoy a hot drink and seasonal sweet treat, as well as a special gift from Santa. Book here.

A brand-new show arrives at Hancock Museum this festive season. Get ready for The Great Festive Dinosaur Show, the dinosaurs are back and this time they've brought some friends. Don't miss this festive family show where Christmas magic brings museum exhibits to life. After the show, families can stay for a special meet and greet and a photo opportunity with the dinosaurs and their friends. Book here.

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 real holiday cheer, the city has it all. Discover 10 reasons why NewcastleGateshead is the perfect UK Christmas break...