It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Wheeler Place with City of Newcastle’s striking 11-metre tree taking pride of place today ahead of a busy festive season.
Community celebrations will officially kick off on Friday 27 November when Lord Mayor Gavin Morris joins Santa Claus for the lighting of the Christmas tree as part of a special evening that will feature live entertainment, a DJ spinning festive tunes and some bubble-blowing stilt-walking elves.
The event will be the first of four to be held in Wheeler Place on Friday evenings in the lead-up to Christmas, with each night including DIY Santa photos, festive performances by Newcastle’s own award-winning Hunter Women of Note Chorus, children’s craft activities, food vendors and the ever-popular pet ‘pawtraits’ with Santa.
Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said the family-friendly atmosphere is designed to help the community celebrate in the city’s cultural heart.
“At a time when many families are struggling with a cost-of-living crisis, it’s important we provide free, accessible Christmas experiences,” Cr Morris said.
“These events in Wheeler Place will be inclusive and welcoming for all members of the community, including their pets.”
Wheeler Place will play host to another City of Newcastle tradition next month when One Song Sing returns on 21 December to lead a special community rendition of Paul Kelly’s “How to Make Gravy.”
Presented by the Civic Theatre on “Gravy Day”, the hugely popular event has in the past seen more than 1,000 Novocastrians join together for a one-off public performance led by community music group The Sum of the Parts.
Registrations open for the fourth running of Newcastle’s pop-up Christmas chorus on 18 November.
The festive spirit will be on show in the civic precinct throughout the month of December with a variety of offerings for the whole family.
The Ten Tenors will present A Not So Silent Night on 12 December at the Civic Theatre, featuring a blend of beloved traditional carols and fresh contemporary favourites.
On 14 December, British comedian Adam Kay will hit the stage at City Hall for his show, Twas the Nightshift Before Christmas, a love letter to those who spend the most wonderful time of the year removing babies and baubles from the various places they get stuck.
Adding to the party atmosphere of the season, Priscilla Queen of the Desert: The Musical will take centre stage from 17 to 20 December, bringing glitter, glamour and an unforgettable celebration of music, friendship and fun to Newcastle’s Christmas program.
As the countdown to the big day continues, Santa will make a flying visit to the Civic Theatre for two all-ages performances as part of The Greatest Christmas Show, a two-hour event featuring world-class dancers, aerialists, singers and an illusionist who brings the season to life in a spectacular way.
Despite his busy schedule, Saint Nick will also make appearances at Newcastle City Library and Wallsend Library on 8 and 11 December for a special holiday event complete with songs and stories.
Both libraries and Newcastle Museum are also hosting Christmas Craft workshops for children on 8, 10 and 11 December.
For more information head to Visit Newcastle, Newcastle Libraries and the Civic Theatre website.