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.

Enjoy Breakfast with Santa at Arthur's. Santa's helpers will greet you at Arthur's Restaurant before taking you to your table for a festive start to the day. Little ones will receive an elf hat to wear and can enjoy some festive colouring. There will then be a fun filled performance and photo opportunities. If Breakfast isn't your thing, why not visit Santa at supper. Santa's Supper Club is taking place throughout November and December. Santa’s elves will be waiting for you at Arthur’s Restaurant before taking you to your table for a delicious two-course dinner for kids of all ages. There will of course be opportunities for pictures.

Fenwick will also be hosting Storytime with the Elves across November and December. Listen to a festive elf narrate tales that will whisk you off to a faraway land and have your imagination running wild. This isn't just for the kids as adults can enjoy festive mulled wine or spiced apple juice and a buttery mince pie while kids tuck into warm cookies and milk.

Finally, enjoy some yuletide joy at Fenwick's Christmas Cinema. Festive favourite Christmas movies will be shown, with extra special Fenwick touches to ensure that you have an unforgettable evening. Complimentary refreshments are included in your ticket including popcorn, mulled wine or spiced apple juice, hot chocolate or a refreshing juice for children. 

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The Alnwick Garden are gearing up for a glitzy Christmas. Venture to The Alnwick Garden and see the grounds come to life by following their spectacular Christmas Light Trail. Back by popular demand, the popular light trail. Taking place from the 13th November until 7th January, immerse yourself in a glittering carnival of light and sound where magic awaits you at every corner. There is nothing more festive than immersing yourself in twinkling lights. The trail is a must for those wanting to get into the Christmas spirit! You can book tickets here.

New for 2023, celebrate all things Christmas at Lilidorei. This Christmas at Lilidorei, the 9 clans will finally come together to create the most magical Christmas imaginable. The village of Lilidorei will come to life through light, sound and play and every visitor will have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Father Christmas too. Each day, the team of Secret Keepers will be keeping our visitors entertained with Festive themed activities and stories throughout the village.

You can book a Christmas Package to explore the Alnwick Garden Light Trail and Lilidorei 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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The Christmas Victoria Tunnel tours are back for 2023! This year there is a new theme- The Lion, the Witch and the... Tunnel! Enter through the Tunnel door to follow the clues to Aslan, resist the sweet delight offered by the Witch, overcome winter and restore Christmas, finding Santa in the depths of the Tunnel. This is suitable for children of all ages and includes a small gift for each child. Meet at the entrance to the Victoria Tunnel and each family will begin the tour at short intervals to allow a special time with Santa. Babies under one year old are welcome to attend with their families at no charge. Book your ticket here. 

The Christmas Kingdom returns to Bamburgh Castle on Saturday November 11th. Following on from last year’s sumptuous The Twelve Days of Christmas, the Charlotte Lloyd Webber Event Design team return with an inspired festive interpretation that promises to be our most dazzling Christmas experience yet.

Inspired by Northumberland’s myths and legends, journey through the Castle’s staterooms steeped in stories and folklore and discover a world sprinkled full of fairy magic. Fantastical creatures fly through frosted forests full of faerie magic and tinkling laughter while mermaids and shape-shifting selkies dive through shell-encrusted lagoons. A delight for visitors of all ages. Complete your festive experience our personalised Meet Father Christmas experiences for the ultimate experience little ones will never forget.

The Christmas Kingdom is free with general admission so make sure you book your tickets to Bamburgh now!

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Travel back in time to experience the enchanting Christmases of the past, from the Georgian period to the 1950s at Beamish. Enjoy the festive spirit with great music, beautiful decorations, and delicious treats as you create special holiday memories with your friends and family. Explore the charm of an Edwardian-era town street, visit homes and shops decked out in traditional holiday decorations, listen to musicians playing festive songs, get creative with Christmas crafts, take a whimsical stroll through Elf Wood, and don't forget to check out the stalls for the perfect presents. See more here.