Giant Christmas Gift Lights Up Hunter Street Mall as Newcastle’s Festivities Begin

15 November 2024

newy.com.au – Newcastle has officially entered the festive season with the City of Newcastle unveiling a two-metre-tall Christmas present in Hunter Street Mall, marking the start of its annual Christmas celebrations. This giant gift, crafted from cedar boards salvaged from a century-old Carrington home, is decorated with artwork by local artist Mitch Revs and will illuminate the Market Street steps until Boxing Day, inviting locals to capture holiday photos with family and friends.

The festive cheer continues at Wheeler Place, where City of Newcastle’s 12.5-metre Christmas tree will be installed next week. Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge will join Santa Claus to officially switch on the tree lights on 29 November 2024. Santa will also be available for festive photo sessions every Friday and Sunday until 15 December, with live musical performances from local schools, community groups, and professional artists adding a melodic touch to the celebrations.

On 13 December, the Newcastle Youth Orchestra will present a special concert, showcasing talented young musicians and vocalists leading traditional Christmas carols. Alissa Jones, City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Creative and Community Services, highlighted the focus on supporting local businesses this holiday season. Shoppers can explore special offers featured in a ‘Santa’s Shopping List’ display, and a spend-to-win competition organised with the Newcastle Business Improvement Association offers the chance to win a ‘Staycation Package’ featuring a Civic Theatre gift voucher and accommodation at Quest Apartments.

Adding to the fun, Wheeler Place will also feature a festive sleigh, perfect for family and pet photos, alongside a craft table where visitors can write letters to Santa and post them in a special on-site mailbox. To discover more about the city’s Christmas events, visit City of Newcastle’s What’s On website.