This November, Newcastle’s iconic Leazes Park will be transformed into a magical wonderland as Northern Lights Newcastle returns for its highly anticipated second year from Friday 22nd November. Back with 14 brand NEW world-class illuminations, and two heart-warming charity-based collaborations, a spectacular lake show, a grand finale and a Christmas Village brimming with local food traders, this year’s event promises to be a truly unforgettable festive experience.
With over half of this year’s light trail tickets sold already (45,000), Northern Lights Newcastle has revealed some of the top local food and drink vendors who will be making this year’s Christmas Village a destination in its own right. Whether warming up with mulled wine or a hot chocolate, indulging in mouth-watering street food, or toasting marshmallows by the fire pits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while taking in the magic of the light trail.
Christmas Village Local Food Traders for 2024:
- 40 Ounce Burgers – A new addition for 2024, these viral sensations are bringing their famous, North-East-loved burgers to the heart of the village.
- Take the Bait – Another exciting addition to the Christmas Village this year is a new fish and chip unit, serving up classic favourites run by Falcons Rugby Events.
- Acropolis – Returning to Northern Lights this year with their delicious Greek street food, Acropolis brings the best of the Mediterranean to Newcastle.
- Twisted Chick – Serving up their flavourful, tender chicken with a twist, this crowd favourite from last year is back to spice up the festive season.
- Parmorama – The kings of the classic Parmo, Parmorama is making its much-loved return to the Christmas Village.
- Redheads Mac N Cheese – Mac N Cheese, the ultimate comfort food, will be available once again from Redheads, perfect for those crisp winter nights.
- Truly Madly Pizza – Returns to serve fresh, wood-fired pizza that’s guaranteed to hit the spot.
- Doughvine Desserts – For those with a sweet tooth, Doughvine returns with their irresistible churros and sweet treats.
- Monument Coffee – Hot drinks and moreish bakes from this local favourite will keep you warm as you explore the light trail.
Reiss Maddison from 40 Ounce Burgers shared their excitement to be a part of the Christmas Village at Northern Lights Newcastle 2024, saying: “We’re so excited to be part of Northern Lights Newcastle for our first year! This is an amazing event, and we can’t wait to share our famous burgers with everyone visiting the trail. It’s the perfect setting for a festive feast, and we’re thrilled to be here.”
Jamie Pagett from Redheads Mac N Cheese also said: “We had an incredible experience at Northern Lights last year, and we’re absolutely thrilled to be back! The atmosphere is magical, and we’re looking forward to serving up our popular mac ‘n’ cheese to the North East once again.”
Two bars will also light up the Christmas Village, providing the perfect spot to enjoy mulled wine or festive cocktails. Plus, NEW for 2024, the festive food offering will extend out of the Christmas Village, along the trail, with the Lakeside food hub, offering delicious fish and chips, giving guests a spectacular view of the stunning lake shows in action. Alongside this, marshmallow fire pits will be set up for toasting treats under the stars.
This year, visitors can look forward to a range of brand-new displays, designed to surprise and delight all ages. One of the highlights for 2024 is “The Lily Show,” a floating installation on the park’s lake, where a mirrored lily shimmers in neon lights to a dramatic musical score.
Another exciting new installation has been unveiled, adding to the enchantment of the trail: the Sea of Light. This breathtaking display of pulsating, animated lights has been created by world-class lighting designers from Ithaca Studios, the team behind stunning installations at Kew Gardens, Blenheim Palace, and Glastonbury Festival. As the grand finale of the trail, the Sea of Light is a must-see spectacle that will leave visitors in awe.
Northern Lights Newcastle launches on Friday, 22nd November from 4:30 pm, and runs until 31st December 2024. With over 100,000 visitors expected after last year’s sold-out event, tickets are selling quickly. Early booking is highly recommended, especially for the opening weekend and week. You can check availability and secure your tickets here: Tickets and Availability.