Free festive shows, giant tree and Santa selfies to transform Newcastle’s Civic precinct this Christmas

newy.com.au – Newcastle’s Civic precinct will come alive later this month when City of Newcastle lights up Wheeler Place with its towering Christmas tree and a three-weekend program of free, family-friendly festive events.

City of Newcastle says the annual Christmas program is a highlight of the city’s events calendar, drawing people into the city centre in the lead-up to Christmas while encouraging them to spend time and money with local retailers, cafes, restaurants and cultural venues.

Wheeler Place will take on a festive feel as installation of the 11-metre Christmas tree gets underway, accompanied by twinkling reindeer, oversized bells and Santa’s sleigh, which are being pitched as perfect backdrops for DIY family and pet photos with Santa.

The Christmas cheer will step up from 28 November, when the official lighting of the tree marks the start of three weekends of live performances, decorations and photo opportunities across the Civic precinct.

Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe said the program was designed to showcase both the spirit of the season and the strength of local businesses. “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,” she said.

Council says the opening night festivities on 28 November will feature Christmas-themed dancers, live music, a Christmas DJ, Christmas carols and a special visit from Santa Claus as the Christmas tree lights are switched on.

Families will also be able to make use of a Christmas craft station, where children can write letters to Santa on decorated cards and create their own silver bell ribbon bracelets to take home.

City of Newcastle’s cultural venues are adding to the program with a series of performances during November and December.

Locally produced play A Very Newy Chrissy will offer something for adults at the Civic Playhouse from 6 to 15 November as part of the Upstage at the Playhouse season.

The Newcastle University Choir will deliver a performance of Handel’s Messiah at City Hall on 14 December, adding a traditional note to the Christmas line-up.

The popular One Song Sing community choir event will return to Wheeler Place on 22 December, while musical Kinky Boots will provide another drawcard at the Civic Theatre from 18 to 21 December.

More details about the full festive program and other events across Newcastle are available on the Visit Newcastle website.