Newcastle’s Christmas Market will feature a new festive attraction this year, as a Ferris wheel is set to take its place in Old Eldon Square, giving visitors elevated views of the city’s seasonal celebrations and adding an extra fun dimension to the city centre festivities.
The Christmas Village is part of Newcastle’s Christmas 2025, a collaboration between Newcastle City Council and Newcastle NE1, who are working together to put Newcastle firmly on the festive map nationally. These joint efforts aim to create a magical, accessible event and a must-visit destination for visitors from near and far.
The Christmas Village returns after its phenomenally successful launch last year, creating a festive family area and offering a host of Christmas activities for all ages, with the Ferris wheel, the latest glittering attraction.
The Christmas Village forms part of the hugely popular Newcastle Christmas Markets, which last year attracted a record 1.76 million visits during the five-week event.
This year, the market’s footprint, which spans Grainger Street, Grey Street and Monument, as well as Old Eldon Square, has been extended to include Nelson Street. Traders have again been handpicked, with over 80% of those chosen hailing from within 20 miles of the city centre, honouring the ongoing commitment to support local businesses, make a significant impact on the local economy and provide a high-quality experience at the markets.
This year, the Ferris wheel, measuring 15 metres tall, will be added to the Christmas Village alongside attractions in each grassed quadrant of the square, including family shows on the Rockin’ Reindeer stage, the immersive Santa Stories experience, where children get the chance to meet Santa and his elves, and a historic vintage carousel.
Cllr Abdul Samad, Cabinet member for Culture, Music and Arts at Newcastle City Council said: “We know how important Christmas is in Newcastle and are committed to offering something special for local people to enjoy and an experience that will attract visitors to our city.
“Our Christmas market is improving every year, and with the addition of a Ferris wheel there will be even more festive fun on offer and new traditions to start with family and friends. It will also look amazing and add to the magic of Old Eldon Square.”
Ben Whitfield, Director of Communications at NE1 Ltd, said: “We are determined to put Newcastle on the festive map nationally, making it one of the UK’s top destinations for festive fun seekers and to give the people of Newcastle more reasons to celebrate and have fun in the city. The new Ferris wheel will be a fantastic addition, giving families another activity to enjoy, and bringing extra Christmas lights and sparkle to the village.”
“A ride on the Ferris wheel will give visitors the chance to enjoy the newly extended Christmas markets and Christmas Village from a whole new perspective, in the air.”
The Christmas Village, one of several elements of the Christmas Market delivered by EVNT Inspirations on behalf of Newcastle City Council and NE1, has grown into one of the season’s highlights at the markets. Mike Hesketh of EVNT Inspirations said, “We can’t wait to bring back the Christmas Village this year as part of Newcastle’s Christmas Market.”
“Building on the success of last year’s family-friendly area, we’re thrilled to introduce a spectacular wheel in Old Eldon Square, illuminating the space and adding even more magic to an already festive atmosphere.
“Following the popularity of Santa Stories, Rockin’ Reindeer Stage and Marshmallow Land, our elves are already hard at work creating a bigger and better magical experience for visitors of all ages this winter.”
Dates: Saturday 15 November until Tuesday 23 December 2025
Opening Hours: 10am – 8pm Monday – Saturday and 10am – 5pm Sunday
Bookings are open for all the Christmas Village activities, including rides on the new Ferris wheel. Last year, demand for tickets was high, so people are encouraged to book their places early to avoid disappointment. Bookings can be made through www.newcastleschristmas.com.
Newcastle’s Christmas will officially launch on Thursday 6 November, with the annual Christmas lights switch-on event, and the much-loved Christmas markets will open on Saturday 15th November and run until Tuesday 23 December.
For information about all the Christmas and New Year events in Newcastle city centre this year, visit www.newcastleschristmas.com.
More in latest
