Newcastle is preparing to welcome the festive season with open arms as the city centre transforms into a winter wonderland this November. The much-anticipated Christmas celebrations will kick off with Santa's grand arrival on Friday, November 28, 2025, marking the beginning of Newcastle's most magical time of year.
Festive Fun for the Whole Family
From 5pm to 8pm on November 28, Wheeler Place will come alive with family-friendly festivities designed to delight visitors of all ages. The highlight of the evening will be the official lighting of Newcastle's spectacular 11-metre high Christmas tree just before 8pm, creating a breathtaking centrepiece for the city's holiday celebrations.
Families can capture precious memories with free Santa selfies and even include their furry friends with special pet pawtraits. The atmosphere will be filled with Christmas cheer as a festive DJ spins holiday favourites, while cheeky Elves with Bells roam through the crowd, spreading laughter and joy to everyone they meet.
Delicious Treats and Creative Activities
No Christmas celebration would be complete without sweet treats, and Newcastle's event delivers in style. LuLu's Gelato Co will be serving up delicious frozen delights, while Doughheads will offer their special Christmas-themed doughnut range, ensuring plenty of festive flavours to enjoy.
Children and the young-at-heart can unleash their creativity at the Jingle Bell craft station and write heartfelt Letters to Santa. The entire area will be bathed in the warm glow of sparkling lights, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening.
Live Entertainment and Extended Festivities
The stage program promises to keep everyone entertained with a lively lineup of performances throughout the evening. Ablaze Dance Academy will showcase their talent, joined by a carolling choir and a jazz band playing everyone's favourite yuletide tunes.
Deputy Lord Mayor Cr Charlotte McCabe will join Santa and his elves for the tree lighting ceremony, which will culminate in a joyful Jingle Bells finale performance that invites everyone to sing along and ring their bells in unison.
The Christmas spirit continues across three weekends with additional opportunities to enjoy live music and meet Santa. Featured acts include The Novatones, National Music Academy's Evan Worgan, and the Belair Public School Choir, performing on select Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons throughout the season.
This free community event welcomes everyone - including four-legged friends - offering the perfect opportunity to celebrate the spirit of Christmas together in the heart of Newcastle.
Event Details: The Christmas launch and tree lighting take place on Friday, November 28 from 5pm to 8pm, followed by festive sessions in December on Fridays 5 and 12 (5pm-7pm) and Sundays November 30, December 7 and 14 (4pm-6pm).
