Festive fun comes to Newcastle's Civic precinct

Newcastle's Wheeler Place will play host to festive fun as the Civic precinct is transformed with an 11-metre-high Christmas tree and family-friendly activities.

The tree’s lights were switched on last night, bringing the glow of Christmas spirit and the flash of mobile phone cameras as locals stopped to take a snap.

Free DIY Santa photos will also be on offer on Friday and Saturday nights in the lead-up to Christmas, with the man in the big red suit being joined by his elves to deliver an early dose of Christmas cheer to the city centre, while street performers and musical entertainment will amp up the festive atmosphere.

Representatives from local charities Got Your Back Sista and the Ronald McDonald House Charities will also be on hand spreading awareness and raising funds to help those in need.

CN's Interim Director Strategy and Engagement Kathleen Hyland said the signature Christmas tree and free program of activities will help activate Wheeler Place and draw people back into the city following the recent COVID-19 lockdown.

“While it's been another challenging year for our community, we're all looking forward to coming together safely during the festive season to celebrate," Ms Hyland said.

"We hope that the sight of our Christmas tree and the free, fun activities will help spread a dose of much-needed joy amongst friends and families, while also encouraging visitors to come back into the city centre and support our local businesses.

“There is no better time than the lead-up to Christmas to shop locally, enjoy a night out at one of the local bars or restaurants and show your support for all those Newcastle businesses who have been affected by the recent lockdown and restrictions."

The festivities will run from 6pm to 8pm each Friday and Saturday night during the first three weekends of December. Snap a picture with Santa and his elves, relax over a bite to eat or a refreshing drink from the Civic Theatre Café & Bar and enjoy the free live entertainment, which over various dates will include carol singers, a brass band, the Marching Koalas, Novotones choir, Hannah Indigo and children's entertainers the Little Scallywagz.

Keep an eye on the What's On website for the growing list of Christmas events being held across Newcastle, including activations in Wheeler Place, Darby Street, Hunter Street Mall, Hamilton and Wallsend. The City of Newcastle Christmas tree will remain in place until 10 January 2022.