Newcastle Christmas Market 2024: A Festive Extravaganza
Upon arriving in town on Saturday morning for the launch of Newcastle Christmas Market, there was already a palpable excitement, with a small crowd gathered around the Monument for an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. This year's festive extravaganza promised to be bigger and better than ever before.
A Winter Wonderland in the Heart of Newcastle
As a regular visitor to the market over the years, I was eager to see what new additions had been made. The expansion to include a new Christmas Village in Old Eldon Square was particularly exciting. The sight of the ‘North Pole’ igloos directly ahead was immediately impressive. Six igloos, encircling Grey's Monument on a lawn of artificial grass, beckoned me closer.
Adorned with fairy lights and florals, and featuring furry throws over wooden bench seats, the igloos exuded warmth and invitation – their heating was particularly appreciated on such a chilly day, making them even cosier than anticipated. From their elevated position, the igloos – which can be pre-booked – offered fantastic views; choose the right one and you could either gaze down Grey Street or immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the market below.
Festive Shopping and Local Delights
The surrounding area quickly became increasingly bustling. Those familiar with the market from previous years will recognise the layout: a quaint town of chalet-like stalls, adorned with lights and greenery, arranged around the top of Grey Street and Grainger Street. I navigated through shoppers browsing a vast array of goods, from knitwear and jewellery to Geordie gifts and unique items like Japanese Herbarium Bottles, which contain tiny decorative florals under glass. The familiar Grill Tower, crowned with Nativity figures, was back and kept busy grilling bratwurst, while many local street food favourites were also on offer.
Most of this year's 35-plus traders are local, offering a diverse selection of goods. The Moosenwirt alpine bar, a yearly favourite, returned to its usual spot, where several people were already gathered around fire pits enjoying drinks. This year’s market truly showcases the best of Newcastle’s local talent and businesses.
The Christmas Village: A Family-Focused Extravaganza
In Old Eldon Square, I discovered a whole new experience: the Christmas Village. This first-time addition places the festive spirit on par with the traditional market, offering a range of family-focused attractions. The fairground carousel immediately caught my attention, followed by the giant Christmas tree situated opposite a double tipi where Santa would be hosting story sessions throughout the season.
Upon entering the tipi, it's evident that much attention to detail has been paid to create an enchanting children's experience. Santa and his elves are convincingly attired, and cushions and seating are arranged to accommodate the growing line of patiently waiting youngsters. An Elf School is set up on the green, and there's an outdoor Rockin' Robin performance stage where families can reserve a variety of festive sessions. I even noticed Mickey Mouse making a surprise appearance!
Festive Indulgence: Food, Drink, and Prices
The area soon buzzed with activity as people enjoyed the selection of food and drink stalls. The Christmas Market, like any city's, can be pricey – with food dishes advertised at £12 and mulled wine starting at £6. However, there are also more affordable snacks available, and it's the season for indulging after all! The range of local food and drink options ensures there's something to suit all tastes and budgets.
Unique Gifts and Local Collaborations
In terms of gifts, you're likely to discover unique items not found elsewhere – and the majority are locally produced. Local firm EVNT Inspirations has collaborated with Newcastle City Council and business improvement district company NE1 Ltd on this year's new attractions, significantly enhancing the city's Christmas Market experience. The collaboration between local businesses and the council demonstrates a commitment to supporting the local economy and creating a truly memorable event.
The integration of the ‘North Pole’ igloos in the city centre truly adds to the festive ambiance. Christmas tunes filled the air, creating a magical atmosphere. I'm eagerly anticipating my next visit to the market after sunset; the festive lights truly come alive then and I'm expecting the scent of mulled wine to waft through the air.
A City Transformed: Lights, and the Theatre Royal
The city's Christmas light display, featuring a canopy of lights resembling stars above Moosenwirt, enhances the overall atmosphere. Just down the road, the Theatre Royal is also joining in the festivities this year, courtesy of NE1 support, with twinkling lights wrapped around its pillars. The additional lighting displays throughout the city centre create a truly immersive festive experience.
A Festive Success Story: A Look to the Future
The Newcastle Christmas Market has become a significant part of the festive season, attracting visitors from across the region and beyond. The successful expansion and the incorporation of the Christmas Village demonstrate the city’s commitment to creating a dynamic and ever-evolving festive experience. The market's success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of those involved and a celebration of the vibrant community spirit of Newcastle.
The market, open daily from 10am until 8pm and until 5pm on Sundays, will continue until December 22. It's a testament to the collaborative efforts of local businesses, the city council, and organizations like NE1 Ltd. I believe all those involved deserve praise as Newcastle has really stepped up this year, offering a festive experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression. The market's success is not only a source of pride for Newcastle but also contributes significantly to the city’s economy. The dedication to providing a memorable festive experience ensures the continued growth and success of the Newcastle Christmas Market in the years to come.
