Festive fun returns to Newcastle’s Civic precinct

Newcastle’s Civic precinct is set to sparkle this month as City of Newcastle lights up the season with the return of its much-loved Christmas tree and festive program of free, family-friendly fun.

Wheeler Place will take on a festive feel from this Friday when the installation of the 11-metre tall Christmas tree begins.

An example of a festive ‘pawtrait’ featuring three dogs, as part of City of Newcastle’s 2024 Christmas program in Wheeler PlaceThe Christmas cheer will kick up a notch from 28 November with the official lighting of the tree and the first of three weekends of live performances, dazzling decorations and plenty of selfie-worthy moments, including twinkling reindeer, oversized bells and Santa’s sleigh, perfect for DIY family and pet ‘pawtraits’ with Santa.

Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said the festive program is a highlight of Newcastle’s events calendar, drawing people into the city centre in the lead-up to Christmas.

“Our Christmas program of activities celebrate the joy and togetherness of the season while shining a light on the amazing local retailers, cafes and restaurants that make our city so special,” Cr McCabe said.

“We’re encouraging everyone to come into the city, explore our unique shops, dining spots and free entertainment while supporting local traders and cultural venues.

“The festivities will officially launch on Friday 28 November and will feature Christmas-themed dancers, live music, a Christmas DJ, Christmas carols and a special visit from Santa Claus as we officially turn on our Christmas tree lights.

“Families can also enjoy a Christmas craft station, where children can write letters to Santa on our decorated cards and create their own silver bell ribbon bracelets to take home.”

Adding even more festive cheer to the precinct, City of Newcastle’s cultural venues are serving up a merry line-up of performances during November and December. 

Locally produced play A Very Newy Chrissy offers something for the adults at the Civic Playhouse from 6 to 15 November as part of the Upstage at the Playhouse season, while the Newcastle University Choir will deliver a stirring performance of Handel’s Messiah at City Hall on 14 December. 

The popular One Song Sing community choir event will be back in Wheeler Place on 22 December while musical Kinky Boots will provide an award-winning reason to visit the Civic Theatre from 18 to 21 December.

For more details about the full festive program and other events across Newcastle, visit https://visitnewcastle.com.au/whats-on/christmas2025