(Image: Eldon Square)
Christmas magic is set to light up the city centre with a weekend of free, family-friendly fun.
Eldon Square in Newcastle will be transformed into a festive wonderland on Saturday, November 14 and Sunday, November 15, filled with seasonal surprises and sparkling entertainment for all ages.
Visitors can look forward to meeting Santa and his elves, encountering a mischievous Grinch, and testing their holiday spirit on Eldon Square’s Good-ometer, all while enjoying roaming performers and interactive activities throughout the malls.
A highlight of the weekend will be performances by Spark!, the internationally acclaimed illuminated drumming troupe who blend live music, light, and movement.
They will perform in the centre at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm on both days.
Santa and his elves will be available for a free meet and greet outside Next on St Andrew’s Way from 11am to 1pm and 1.30pm to 5pm each day.
No booking is required, and families will have plenty of opportunities to snap a festive photo.
For children who prefer a quieter experience, free Quiet Santa sessions will take place before the main public meet and greets. These must be booked in advance.
An accessibility queue will also be available during public sessions.
Elsewhere in the centre, the Naughty Grinch will be on the loose, spreading playful chaos alongside Santa’s elves and towering festive stilt walkers.
Those feeling lucky can try the Christmas Claw Grabber for a chance to win prizes, including a £50 Eldon Square Gift Card, a meal for two at The Alchemist, and FREE jewellery from Nominations Italy.
The Community Quarter will offer Christmas face painting from 11am to 4pm each day in exchange for a donation to Newcastle United Foundation and Tyneside and Northumberland Mind.
Funds raised will be divided equally between the two charities to support their work in the community.
With over 100 retailers, visitors can also enjoy Christmas shopping and seasonal treats throughout the weekend.
Helen Cowie, centre director at Eldon Square, said: "There is nothing quite like the excitement of Christmas arriving in the city, and we cannot wait to welcome families to Eldon Square for a weekend packed with festive fun."
"From meeting Santa and watching the incredible Spark! performers, to spotting the Naughty Grinch and enjoying all the little surprises happening across the centre, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
"We wanted to create a brilliant free day out for families in the heart of Newcastle and make sure as many visitors as possible can take part through Quiet Santa sessions and accessibility support.
"It is the perfect way to kick-start the Christmas countdown."