Lighting up the city this Christmas

This year’s much-loved event takes place next Tuesday (14 November) and is the traditional curtain raiser to Christmas and New Year in the city. The fun starts at 6pm, with the big switch-on just before 7pm, so head down to the top of Grey Street near the Monument. 

Metro Radio’s breakfast show presenters Steve and Karen will again host the event and bring their unique blend of entertainment for the audience to enjoy - with songs, games, live music, and maybe even a visit from the man in red too! They will be joined by North East duo Khalysis, stars from the local pantomime, including a special appearance from Joe McElderry, aka Jiminy Cricket in the Theatre Royal’s Pinocchio, and favourite characters from Frozen. 

The Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Cllr Veronica Dunn will also be on stage to help switch on the lights. She said: “There’s nowhere like Newcastle at Christmas. We have a beautiful city, and the lights make it even more magical. 

“We want everyone in the city to have the opportunity to spend time with friends and family over the festive period and enjoy high quality events that are free of charge, and our plans for Christmas and New Year are perfect for this. And we also want to attract visitors to our wonderful city. 

“I am delighted to part of the fantastic tradition of switching on the city’s lights this year to mark the start of our celebrations and would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy Christmas.”

Karen Oxley from Metro Radio’s Breakfast Show added: “Once again we can’t wait to kick start the festive season in Newcastle with the annual lights switch on. 

“It’s a huge honour for us to be part of this magical event, and we’re really looking forward to some free festive family fun with the crowd on November 14th. 

“We want everyone to get into the spirit of Christmas, so get those jumpers and antlers on and come along and enjoy the night.” 

For more information about Christmas in Newcastle visit www.newcastleschristmas.com.