Produced by NewcastleGateshead Initiative
NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
As the nights draw in and thoughts turn to roaring fires and writing letters to Father Christmas, come and enjoy NewcastleGateshead’s Winter Festival as we usher in the Christmas season with events, performances, markets and lots of fantastic celebrations. Gateshead’s Saltwell Park, once again hosts the beautiful Enchanted Parks (Wednesday 5 – Sunday 9 December). Step inside a Victorian fairytale as the stories of the park come to life through stunning installations by some of the region’s leading artists. New Year’s Eve always signals a time to celebrate and the NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival presents one of the biggest events across the country in the New Year’s Eve Winter Carnival. Meet Thor and the Black Elves, watch out for Odin’s wolves prowling the streets, and keep your ears open for the Spark drummers whose rhythms summon other strange beasts in this Norse-themed Carnival Parade. Then head to the NewcastleGateshead Quayside to celebrate the stroke of midnight in one of the restaurants, bars and venues along the River Tyne. Don’t miss the Midnight Fireworks display, a welcome addition to this year’s celebrations in NewcastleGateshead. And that’s not all – Sunday 10 February 2013 marks the arrival of Chinese New Year. Join in the celebrations as we usher in the Year of the Snake with Chinese-inspired events, performances and activities for all the family.
Carol Bell, head of culture and major events at NewcastleGateshead Initiative said: “The Winter Festival is a special event, unique to NewcastleGateshead. By working with artists, community groups and cultural attractions from across NewcastleGateshead we can offer a festive experience for local people, and visitors, that is rooted here in the region. Enjoy reading the brochure and finding out what we have planned this year. I hope you can join us as we celebrate the festive season and look forward to welcoming 2013.”
4
Ouseburn Open Studios
22
Buy original work and gifts from local artists.
10
Indulge yourself during the festive season.
24
Festive shopping
Festive food and drink
From festive markets to huge shopping malls.
NYE and Winter Carnival Bring the family down to the early evening celebrations.
14
Enchanted Parks Step inside a magical after-dark experience.
See in the New Year on the Quayside.
18
Festive performances
Chinese New Year & Map
20
Festive events
26
Theatre, panto and live music for all the family.
A variety of events to get you in the Christmas spirit.
28
NYE’s Midnight Fireworks
Welcome in the Year of the Snake.
KEY TO SYMBOLS METRO STATION NEAREST NEAREST QUAYLINK STOP
£ CHARGES APPLY
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 3
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
Sat 24 - 25 Nov, 10am - 5pm www.ouseburnopenstudios.org
Look out for the FREE shuttle bus running throughout the weekend around the Ouseburn. The shuttle bus will also take you along Gateshead Quays, so stop off at The Sage Gateshead’s Wine & Food Fair, Winter Fair @ St Mary’s and BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art for even more shopping, festive food and drink.
The Ouseburn Valley is the creative heart of NewcastleGateshead and every year, on the last weekend in November, Ouseburn Open Studios sees venues open their doors, offering a unique chance to come and glimpse into the working world of over 200 artists and designer-makers. There’s a huge variety of affordable and original work to buy – from paintings, ceramics, sculpture, glass, jewellery, furniture, prints, and much more to suit everyone’s taste with live music, delicious food and interactive workshops head to Ouseburn for some seasonal spirit and Christmas stocking goodies.
Ouse Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PF. ousestreetartsclub.wordpress.com, ousestartsclub@gmail.com
Stepney Bank, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2NP. 0191 261 7000, enquiry@northernprint.org.uk, northernprint.org.uk
Ouse Street Arts Club is a brand new venue occupying two converted shipping containers on a vacant site at the heart of the Lower Ouseburn Valley. An artist-led space realised in collaboration with xsite architecture, O.S.A.C. will be throwing open its doors for Ouseburn Open Studios with a programme of short films, as well as design and art to view and buy. Ouseburn Coffee Company will also be on hand for all your hot beverage needs.
This welcoming venue houses a gallery and studio dedicated to printmaking. The gallery is open all year and showcases the very best in contemporary printmaking from regional and international artists. For this weekend only visitors can go behind-the-scenes in the print studio to see the presses in action and meet some of the artists who work here. It’s your chance to find out what makes a print an original work of art and why they are so collectable. You can also have a go at making your own print to take away – all welcome.
4 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
Preview night: Fri 23 Nov, 6-8pm St. Lawrence Road, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 1AR. 0191 224 4011, info@mushroomworks.com, mushroomworks.com Mushroom Works is home to an exciting mix of artists and designer-makers. The Open Studios weekend offers a unique opportunity to explore behind the studio doors and meet with the highly talented people who work here. Alongside an exhibition of studio holder’s work, our established exhibition of original 20cm x 20cm artworks is always a firm favourite and a great pre-Christmas bargain priced at just £20!
Lower Steenbergs Yard, Quayside, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2DF. 0191 375 9000, info@toffeefactory.co.uk, toffeefactory.co.uk, britishbydesign.org The new online design store ‘British by Design’ will be creating their first pop up shop at the Toffee Factory for Ouseburn Open Studios! The store showcases high quality innovative products designed in Britain. It will be the perfect place to start your Christmas shopping, especially if you’re on the lookout for original, creative gifts for your friends and family!
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 5
Ouseburn Open Studios
Ben Atkinson & Effie Burns, 10–16 Boyd Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 1AP. ben-atkinson.co.uk, effieburnsglass.co.uk Cobalt Studios is home to eight designer makers, covering a variety of disciplines including furniture, glass, film and fine art. There’ll be a range of work on show offering unique opportunities for you to buy and commission pieces. Some of the more accessible studios will be open for the weekend, allowing you to have a good nosy into the working world of the modernday artisan. Due to upcoming building work (to provide about 12 more studio spaces) some of the building will be inaccessible. We hope that our usual Wanderlove café customers will be able to wait until next year for a return visit.
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
Warwick Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 1BB. 0191 261 1103, art@thebiscuitfactory.com, thebiscuitfactory.com
Stoddart Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 1AN. 0191 261 1103, art@thebiscuitfactory.com, thebiscuitfactory.com
The Biscuit Tin is a hive of creativity with over 30 creative practitioners opening their doors and celebrating a cacophony of culture, art, music and food. Artists will be presenting their work and inviting you to take part... Throughout the weekend vegetarian café, Jack Sprats, will be providing delicious food and refreshments. On Saturday at 12.30pm be part of a big story as we introduce Buddle Writers; a spontaneous and adlibbing storytelling and writing group. on Sunday join us to kick start your day of studio visits with a rousing vocal performance at 11am by Heaton Voices Choir.
Housed in The Biscuit Factory, the UK’s largest commercial contemporary art gallery, The Biscuit Factory Studios are located in the two basement floors of this four storey Victorian Warehouse. Home to a collection of well known and respected artists, photographers, jewellers and sculptors, this creative community present a diverse range of pieces. Alongside our Winter Exhibition in the gallery we have a wide range of special and unique gifts to fill all your Christmas stockings with prices starting from a few pounds.
6 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
Ouseburn Warehouse Workshops & Studios, 36 Lime Street, Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PQ. 0191 261 5666, info@36limestreet.co.uk, 36limestreet.co.uk Opening times 10am - 6pm 36 Lime Street warmly welcomes everyone to their annual Open Studios event, where over 25 creative practitioners across 5 floors show and sell their work. Glimpse inside, explore the building and talk to the artists and makers. See an exciting and diverse range of paintings, prints, textiles, jewellery, furniture, glass and ceramics. Buy that unique gift for Christmas or treat yourself and see our ‘New Blood’ exhibition in the gallery space showing exciting work from our newest members.
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 7
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12 52323 GW Life NGi Press 175x126 03/10/2012 11:16 Page 1
Christmas Family Fun The Snowman
Sunday 23rd (2pm & 5pm) & monday 24th december (11am & 2pm)
The Gruffalo & The Gruffalo's Child Friday 28th december (2pm & 5pm)
orthern Sinfonia. magical film screenings with live music from northern
www.thesagegateshead.org/festive Ticket Office: 0191 443 4661 © Snowman Enterprises Ltd, 1982, 2012, The Gruffalo’s Child © Orange Eyes Ltd, 2011
✁
OpEn dAily frOM 10AM Enjoy close encounters with hundreds of incredible creatures from around the world...
From 10 November 2012 Enjoy a day out to remember with a skate on the region’s favourite outdoor ice rink and Sleigh Ride - the new 4D Motion Ride* complete with moving seats, festive smells and snow! Your skating and Science Centre ticket gets you everything - including the Motion Ride, planetarium, live theatre shows and hands-on fun in our Curiosity Zone. Tickets for skating or Science Centre only are also available.
Come face to face with everything from seals and otters to clownfish, sharks, seahorses and stingrays! Meet the monkeys and reptiles in our stunning amazonian feature! A full programme of talks and feeding displays take place throughout the day.
Grand Parade, Tynemouth, NE30 4JF
Tel: 0191 258 1031 tynemouth@bluereefaquarium.co.uk
£2 off per person off the full admission price. Not to be used with any other offer or family ticket. Photocopies not accepted. Valid for up to 6 people. Valid until 31.03.13
8 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
Have the thrill of your Life this winter! *For safety reasons, Motion Ride visitors must be at least 1.2 metres/4 feet tall.
£2 Off with this advert!
For more information, prices and opening times, visit life.org.uk or call (0191) 243 8210. Times Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4EP
supported by
scienceatlife
life.org.uk
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 9
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
estive shopping NewcastleGateshead, the region’s shopping capital, has everything you need to get all your Christmas shopping done in one go. You’ll find everything from high-street brands to quirky gifts, huge department stores and independent gems – not to mention Metrocentre, Europe’s biggest shopping and leisure complex. If all this shopping wears you out, you’ll find plenty of bars, cafés and restaurants to refuel, making NewcastleGateshead a real shopper’s paradise, whatever the weather! Here’s just a taste of some of the special shopping events available during the festive season.
Christmas Present
Christmas Gift Fair
Fri 16 Nov – Mon 24 Dec
Sat 24 – Sun 25 Nov (£)
Shipley Art Gallery, Prince Consort Road, Gateshead. Booking: 0191 477 1495, shipleyartgallery.org.uk
Bede’s World, Jarrow. Booking: 0191 489 2106, bedesworld.co.uk
Christmas Present comes of age in 2012, celebrating 21 years of bringing the best of craft and design to Gateshead!
The popular Christmas Gift Fair showcases a fantastic selection of festive foods, crafts and gifts. There will also be themed craft activities for the younger visitors. Bede
BALTIC Shop Christmas Weekend
Winter Fair @ St Mary’s
Sat 10 – Sun 11 Nov
Sat 24 – Sun 25 Nov (£)
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead Quays. Booking: 0191 440 4947, balticmill.com
St Mary’s Heritage Centre, Oakwellgate, Gateshead. Booking: 0191 433 4699, gateshead.gov.uk
Get your Christmas shopping off to a flying start at the BALTIC SHOP Christmas Discount Weekend. Be amongst the first to get your hands on brand new ranges and designs specially selected for the festive season. The friendly staff will even wrap your presents for FREE.
Browse the selection of food and craft stalls showcasing the wealth and diversity of arts, crafts and traditional food producers we have in our region, all within the stunning setting of St Mary’s Heritage Centre. Stalls include glass, pottery and textiles as well as artisan breads, cakes and cheeses.
Gateshead q1 baltic square
Gateshead Q1 Hillgate Quay
Christmas at Fenwick Fenwick, Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne. Booking: 0191 232 5100, fenwick.co.uk/Newcastle Fenwick is your ultimate shopping destination this Christmas. A visit to see the famous Fenwick Christmas Window is a North East tradition. haymarket q2 haymarket
Christmas Markets in Newcastle Don’t miss the popular markets on Grey Street and Grainger Street in the run up to Christmas. The Continental Market (Mon 19 Nov – Sat 1 Dec) offers gourmet ingredients and a delicious taste of Europe. Pick up a festive treat for a foodie friend, or just treat yourself to lunch one day. The Christmas Market (Wed 5 – Sun 9 Dec) welcomes stall holders from closer to home. You’ll find local beers, homemade jams, delicious cakes and chocolates, as well as gorgeous ideas for a more unique Christmas present. Make sure you stop for a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate and some freshly roasted chestnuts! monument Q1/q2 theatre royal
10 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 11
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
Festive Shopping
Saturday 24th
November
2 012
www.eldon-square.co.uk
The Sa e Gateshead wine food fair
&
Over 150 stores & restaurants facebook.com/eldonsquareshopping twitter.com/eldonsquareshop
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
your chance to try different wines, beers and fine food from local, regional and national suppliers.
Open 9 till 9 weekdays 26th Nov-23rd Dec
Learn more about the wine in a Newcastle Wine School masterclass. AdvAnce entry tickets: £20 (£30 for two) entry on the door: £25 eAch MAsterclAss tickets (AdditionAl cost): £12
store opening times may vary
To book: 0191 443 4661 www.thesagegateshead.org
FESTIVAL
O L OF
F
O
Christmas just keeps getting better.
S
18th - 30th December Embark upon a magical evening quest to unravel a series of riddles hidden throughout a spectacularly illuminated winter landscape.
www.alnwickgarden.com
12 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
A short bus ride from Newcastle city centre brings you to the mighty Metrocentre in Gateshead, it’s officially the largest Shopping Centre in Europe. With over 330 shops, which is almost one for every day of the year, you’ll lose yourself in the vast malls, boutique villages with independent stores not found anywhere else in the North East, plus all the high street names and major department stores you could ever need. After carrying all those bags indulge yourself, so before leaving enjoy a well earned drink and watch the world go by from the 360 Champagne and Cocktail bar in Central Mall, or refuel at one of the 50 restaurants serving up everything from gourmet burgers and Argentinean steak to popular high street chains, or you could put your feet up and catch the latest blockbuster at the Odeon IMAX cinema.
(excluding 24th and 25th)
To buy tickets visit
52309_NGI_WinterGuide_Ad_DW:Layout 1 03/10/2012 16:34 Page 1
northumberland metrocentre.uk.com
j us t k e e p s g et t i ng b et t er
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 13
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
NCHANTED PARKS Wed 5 – Sun 9 Dec, 4.30pm – 9.30pm Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls we welcome you to the topsy-turvy world of Enchanted Parks. Join us for an after-dark Victorian fairytale which will reveal the mysterious and magical secrets of Saltwell Park. Step back into Victorian times to explore Saltwell Park through atmospheric installations, light, sound and performance in this magical and intriguing event for all the family. Explore the winding paths to discover Saltwell Park’s darkest secrets, catch a glimpse of the magical characters and shhh... listen closely... things are not what they seem. Bring your friends and family along to this popular festive tradition in NewcastleGateshead. Remember to look carefully and you’ll find surprise and enchantment in the most unexpected places.
Dive in Movie
Pisces
by Lines of Desire
by Adam Riley and Molly Barrett
Be amazed, amused and gently ribbed by our cast of cheeky characters as you take your feathery seat at our dive-in movie.
The towering fiery figures breathe warmth into the wintery park, as they recall the myth of Pisces.
Blue Yonder
Memorial in A’
by Steve Newby
by Arcus Studios
The magical tunnel of twinkling lights will transport you to the wild blue yonder, where nothing is quite as it seems...
Come forth and witness the performance of a lifetime by Dunston Brass Band as you’ve never seen them before. Ladies and Gentlemen... hats off to the band!
Glass House
The End Of The Rainbow Is Nigh by Sharon Wilson We would all like to find the end of the rainbow wouldn’t we? Or does that mean the end of our dreams? Which way do you want to look at it?
Here’s a sneak peak of some of the installations commissioned especially for this event.
Choir through the Looking Glass by Marek Gabrysch Enjoy a festive sing-song with our Victorian choir. Listen carefully... it all sounds a little surreal but strangely familiar.
by Ross Ashton and Karen Monid Saltwell Towers, home to Victorian master stained glass artist William Wailes, is transformed through a spectacular Son et Lumière celebrating his work.
Glimpses of Victoriana By Deborah Snell Look out for the Victorian characters who will lead you on a magical journey through Enchanted Parks.
Hug a Tree by Hi-lights The trees within Saltwell Park are very special. They have their own stories to tell. Talk to them, give them a hug. They may respond...
Welling Up by Claire Morgan The excesses of Christmas and residues of modern life combine to form a stunning sphere of light within the natural landscape of the dene.
Student Commissions 2012 Once again, students from the region’s universities and colleges have been invited to submit work for Enchanted Parks, giving them the invaluable opportunity to work alongside experienced artists, producers and technical crew. The successful students will be announced early November. Check the website for details. 14 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 15
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
Enchanted Parks
*Winter Fair Adverts NGI:Layout 1 22/10/2012 11:43 Page 1
How to buy tickets
Travelling by public transport
Enchanted Parks is a ticketed event. Tickets are available to buy from 9am on Thursday 1 November. The easiest way to book tickets is online at www.NewcastleGateshead.com/ winterfestival. You can also buy tickets in person at Gateshead Central Library (Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 9am – 7pm, Weds 9am – 5pm and Sat 9am – 1pm) and St Mary’s Heritage Centre (Tues – Sun 10am – 4pm) or by calling 0191 433 6965 (Mon – Thurs, 8am – 5.30pm, Fri 8am - 5pm ). This event is expected to be very popular so make sure you book now to make sure you don’t miss out.
We strongly recommend the use of public transport to get to Enchanted Parks. There is a regular bus service from both Newcastle City Centre and Gateshead Interchange to Saltwell View (the bus stop is just a three minute walk from the East Park Road entrance). Go North East bus number 53 leaves from Newcastle (Market Street) and Gateshead Interchange stopping on Brinkburn Avenue which leads directly to Saltwell Park. Go North East bus number 54 leaves from Newcastle (Market Street and Central Station) stopping on Saltwell View which runs along the park’s northern boundary.
When is the event Enchanted Parks takes place on Wednesday 5 – Sunday 9 December, 4.30pm – 9.30pm. Tickets are available at 15 minute intervals and last entry to the park is at 8pm. Please arrive at Saltwell Park 10 minutes before your booked time slot. Tickets cost £6 Adults, Children* (under 16) FREE. *Maximum of four child tickets per adult ticket. There are no discounts for adult concessions or group bookings. Enchanted Parks is suitable for all ages and is wheelchair accessible. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please note: This is an outdoor evening event, so please wear suitable clothing and footwear. Due to the nature of the event and the time of year, some paths may be uneven and there may be darker areas of the park. For up-to-date weather and event information visit www.NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
Further travel information can be found on the website www.NewcastleGateshead.com/ winterfestival or contact Traveline on 0871 200 2233.
WinterTales St Mary’s Heritage Centre Oakwellgate, Gateshead NE8 2AU 19 - 24 Dec 11am, 1.30pm & 6.30pm Four tales from the Arctic Circle, told by Pascale Konyn, with music by Hinney Pawsey on fiddle and Andrea Masala as the Arctic Hare. £6/£3 Contact the Box office Tel: 0191 433 6965 or book online at www.gateshead.gov.uk and check out the ‘What's On’ pages for other Winter Festival events
All other frequently asked questions about this event can be found on the website www.NewcastleGateshead.com/ winterfestival
How to get there There are two entrances to Enchanted Parks. The first entrance is via Joicey Road Car Park at the south end of Saltwell Park, which can be accessed from Durham Road (A167) via Joicey Road. The second entrance is through Gate 2 of the park, located on East Park Road. There is extremely limited parking on site at the Joicey Road Car Park (£2 charge per car). Priority will be given to Blue Badge Holders. If you are using Sat Nav follow postcode NE9 5AX. 16 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 17
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
estive performances You’ll always find plenty of live performances to attend in NewcastleGateshead, and this is just a selection taking place during the Winter Festival. For full event listings visit www.NewcastleGateshead.com
Aladdin
The Caffreys Christmas Bash
Tues 27 Nov – Sat 19 Jan 2013 (£)
Fri 7 – Sat 8 Dec (£)
Theatre Royal, Newcastle upon Tyne Booking: 08448 11 21 21 theatreroyal.co.uk
Live Theatre, Broad Chare, Newcastle upon Tyne Booking: 0191 232 1232 live.org.uk
Monument Q1/Q2 Theatre Royal
Inspiration Choir Sun 2 Dec (£) The Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays Booking: 0191 443 4661 thesagegateshead.org It’s glamour all the way for this year’s Inspiration Christmas extravaganza, with songs from all your favourite Christmas movies. From ‘The Polar Express‘ to ‘The Muppets‘, ‘White Christmas‘ to ‘Home Alone‘. Gateshead q1 the Sage Gateshead
Fri 7 Dec – Sun 6 Jan 2013 (£) Mill Volvo Tyne Theatre, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne Booking: 0191 243 1171 millvolvotynetheatre.co.uk
The Caffreys do a Christmas knees up like no other and promise an acoustic set of songs including some from the 70s. Drawing on a musical palette of acoustic and electric guitars, mandolin, drums, percussion, bass, violin and accordion, The Caffreys create a sound which is variously rocky, rootsy, folky... and always engaging.
Christmas 2012 sees our hero Robin Hood attempting to outwit the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, as well as robbing from the rich to give to the poor and freeing the unfortunate babes in the wood and their hapless nanny and also trying to romance the beautiful Maid Marion along the way. It’s clearly going to be a busy day in the forest!
Central Station q2 law Courts
Central Station Q1 Central Station
The Little Detective Agency And The Case of the Festive Thief Sat 17 Nov – Sat 5 Jan 2013 (£) Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne Booking: 0191 230 5151 northernstage.co.uk From the same team that brought you Shhh… A Christmas Story and The Little Boy Who Lost the Morning comes a brand new festive treat full of excitement, enchanting songs and a sprinkling of audience participation for the family. A Christmas treat for curious little ones and their confused grown ups. Haymarket Q2 Haymarket
18 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
Image: The Little Detective Agency
A long time ago in the far off city of Newcastle, just north of Peking, lived a boy called Aladdin – join him on a magical carpet ride for another lavish Theatre Royal pantomime!
Robin Hood and Babes in the Wood
The Snowman
The Borrowers
Sun 23 – Mon 24 Dec (£)
Mon 3 – Sat 29 Dec (£)
The Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays Booking: 0191 443 4661 thesagegateshead.org
Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne Booking: 0191 230 5151 northernstage.co.uk
‘The Snowman’ has become something of a Christmas tradition at The Sage Gateshead. Bring all the family along to watch the classic animated film on the big screen, accompanied live by Northern Sinfonia playing Howard Blake’s score. Gateshead Q1 The Sage Gateshead
The Borrowers is the extraordinary story of some rather small, very clever folk who run into trouble when “human beans” work out what they’re up to. This classic story will be brought to spectacular life on Northern Stage’s main stage, with puppets, live music and straighttalking charm. Suitable for children aged 7+ and their bigger ‘human beans’. haymarket Q2 haymarket
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 19
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
estive events Winter in NewcastleGateshead is packed full of seasonal events for the whole family to enjoy. From ice-skating to carol services and Christmas lights switch on, there’s bound to be something to get you in the festive spirit.
Christmas at Beamish
Seven Stories Santa Experience
Every weekend Sat 17 Nov – Sun 30 Dec (£)
Every weekend: Sat 8 – Sun 23 Dec (£)
Beamish Museum, Durham Booking: 0191 370 4000 beamish.org.uk
Seven Stories, the Centre for Children’s Books, Ouseburn Booking: 0845 271 0777 sevenstories.org.uk
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas in days gone by with a whole festive season for everyone. It’s how every Christmas ought to be… Wrap up warmly and experience all the trimmings of a Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian Christmas at Beamish Museum.
Write your letter to Father Christmas in Santa’s Study surrounded by original illustrations and manuscripts from some of the UK’s best-loved Christmas stories. Visit the elves in their workshop, create your own Christmas crafts or make your own origami tree decorations. manors Q2 lime street
Skating @ Life
It’s A Wonderful Life
Sat 10 Nov – Sun 24 Feb 2013 (£)
Fri 7 – Mon 31 Dec (£)
Times Square, Newcastle upon Tyne Booking: 0191 243 8223 life.org.uk
Tyneside Cinema, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne Booking: 0845 217 9909 tynesidecinema.co.uk
Get your skates on and head down to Times Square for some winter fun on Life’s open-air ice rink. There are a range of party and group packages available to choose from. Central Station Q1 Central Station
monument Q1/q2 theatre royal
Newcastle Christmas Lights Switch on
Little Elves New Year Workshop
Thurs 22 Nov
Sat 22 Dec – Sun 6 Jan 2013
Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead Quays Booking: 0191 478 1810 balticmill.com
Don’t miss the popular Christmas lights switch on for 2012, lighting up Newcastle city centre during the festive period. Monument Q1/Q2 Theatre Royal
The team at BALTIC will help Father Christmas clean out his cupboards and recycle all the materials used by the elves to make presents. Work with BALTIC artists to make artworks made out of recycled materials and make your own unique presents for families and friends.
Northumberland Chase Christmas Raceday Sat 22 Dec (£) Newcastle Racing and Events, Gosforth Park Booking: 0191 236 2020 newcastle-racecourse.co.uk With only 3 days to go before Christmas, start winding down with an afternoon at the races, the perfect alternative to your normal Christmas Party night out. Regent
Centre + Shuttle Bus
Grab a mince pie and a glass of mulled wine and enjoy this timeless masterpiece in which James Stewart’s loveable everyman George Bailey is shown just how much his life is worth living by Clarence, an angel trying to earn his wings.
gateshead Q1 baltic
Blow a Christmas Bauble Every weekend: Sat 10 Nov – Sun 30 Dec (£) National Glass Centre, Sunderland Booking: 0191 515 5555 nationalglasscentre.com Blow and shape your very own beautiful glass bauble with the NGC studio team. A great addition to your Christmas tree, or a unique gift! No experience necessary. Suitable for ages 13+. Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.
20 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 21
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
estive food & drink NewcastleGateshead is world-famous for its nightlife, so where better to celebrate the festive season. Take a break from the turkey and celebrate the festive season at one of our specially selected unique and alternative Christmas nights out.
Christmas Jazz Supper
River Escapes
Thurs 13 Dec (£)
Weekends during December (£)
Jesmond Dene House Hotel , Jesmond Booking: 0191 212 6055 jesmonddenehouse.co.uk
Board from Quayside (outside Malmaison) Booking: 01670 785 666/777 riverescapes.co.uk
Step into Christmas with a festive Jazz Supper. Enjoy a delicious three-course meal and music from The Paul James Band. Why not make a night of it, and book an overnight stay followed by a leisurely Champagne breakfast in the morning.
The countdown to Christmas has started! Why not celebrate this year on board a River Escapes cruise along the River Tyne. Enjoy a delicious seasonal buffet and disco at the Christmas Party Nights, or bring the family on a Santa Cruise with fun activities for the kids and a chance to meet Father Christmas himself.
The Sage Gateshead’s Wine & Food Fair
Central Station Q2 Law Courts
Sat 24 Nov (£) The Sage Gateshead, Gateshead Quays Booking: 0191 443 4661 thesagegateshead.org
Christmas Afternoon Tea
Eat, drink and be merry as you taste your way around the fine wines, beers and spirits from regional and national producers. Tickle your taste buds with the tasty treats, enjoy the live music and take part in lots of festive fun.
BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead Quays Booking: 0191 440 4948 balticmill.com
Gateshead Q1 The Sage Gateshead
Creative Canapés Sat 17 Nov (£) Blackfriars Restaurant, Friars Street, Newcastle upon Tyne Booking: 0191 261 5945 blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk
22 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
Treat yourself to a luxurious Christmas Afternoon Tea with Fresh Element. They will be serving up delicious finger sandwiches, a selection of cakes and tasty fruit scones and the Gramophone DJs will add some ‘speakeasy’ glamour to the occasion. All guests will be able to go on a mini shopping spree in BALTIC Shop with a special 10% discount. Booking essential. Gateshead Q1 Baltic Square
Impress your friends this Christmas - head to Blackfriars Restaurant for a fun and interactive session with one of their top chefs, they will show you just how easy it is to prep mouthwatering micro-morsels of sheer delight! Haymarket Q2 Haymarket
Sun 2 Dec (£)
The Big Hamper Weekend Sat 24 – Sun 25 Nov (£) The Alnwick Garden, Alnwick Booking: 01665 511350 alnwickgarden.com In partnership with Taste North East and supported by Fenwick Newcastle, The Alnwick Garden presents a unique opportunity to buy, stock or order a Christmas hamper full of the most fabulous festive foodie goodies for those you love.
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 23
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
New Year’s Eve
winter carnival NewcastleGateshead’s New Year’s Eve celebrations kick off with the popular early evening Winter Carnival Parade. Norse mythologies, Viking folklore and North East traditions combine with fire, flame and spectacular costumes, bringing a magical, wintery twist to the traditional carnival theme. Come down and meet Thor and the Black Elves, watch out for Odin’s wolves prowling the streets, and see Heimdall on his white stallion leaping over the Rainbow Bridge. Commissioned by NewcastleGateshead Initiative in partnership with Newcastle City Council Arts Team and produced by the internationally acclaimed outdoor arts company Walk the Plank, Winter Carnival returns once again to bring in the New Year with a magical celebration, culminating in the popular firework finale at Newcastle Civic Centre. See the mythical World Serpent slither through the streets, grown so large as to circle the World in his grasp. Look out as Thor’s Hammers demonstrate their percussive strength, and the Kingsmen’s fire dance leads a flaming Viking Longship up Northumberland Street.
Approximate timings: Keep your eyes peels for activities during the afternoon From 5pm - music and carnival performance in the streets around Monument. 5.15pm - parade leaves for Newcastle Civic Centre via Northumberland Street. 6pm - fireworks finale at Newcastle Civic Centre etro will be running an enhanced M weekday service on New Year’s Eve until 6.30pm. Then a 15 min service through Newcastle city centre, with trains every 30 minutes to South Shields, Airport, South Hylton and St James until approx 11pm. Passengers are advised to use the Journey Planner before travelling www.nexus.org.uk/travel-information
Trains
Hundreds of local residents take part in the carnival parade, working with local artists and Bravura carnival arts to create intricate costumes and choreographed routines to add to the excitement.
LAN
R MBE TRE DS ET
24 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
THU NOR
Join in as traditional folk music and dance meet carnival performance as the parade moves off from Monument, along Northumberland Street. Keep your ears open for World Beaters’ Spark drummers, whose rhythms will summon the carnival parade characters to Newcastle Civic Centre before the New Year’s Eve firework finale lifts off at 6pm. Wave hello to 2013 with a fantastic themed firework display, set to music.
technical sponsors:
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 25
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
New Year’s Eve
idnight fireworks NewcastleGateshead Quayside
Say goodbye to 2012 and welcome in 2013 in style. This year, take the hassle out of organising your New Year’s Eve celebrations and head down to one of the bars and restaurants on the NewcastleGateshead Quayside. Sip cocktails whilst enjoying the stunning Quayside view, dance ‘til dawn at one of the bars and clubs or dine on the very best celebratory menu – there’s so much choice, make sure you book your celebrations now – and all you need to do is decide what to wear! Just before the clock strikes midnight take the celebrations outside to see the Midnight Fireworks display, drawing a close to 2012 and the start of 2013. Don’t worry about getting home either. Make a night of it and book a room and you won’t have to argue about who cooks breakfast the next morning! To check out what’s happening on New Year’s Eve and to find the best accommodation offers visit the website www.NewcastleGateshead.com/newyearseve
technical sponsors:
26 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 27
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
ung Hey Fat Choi! Happy Chinese New Year! Sunday 10 February 2013 marks the arrival of Chinese New Year and NewcastleGateshead will be celebrating in style. Join in the festivities as we usher in the Year of the Snake with Chinese-inspired events, performances and activities for all the family. Keep checking the website for details. NewcastleGateshead.com/chinesenewyear
28 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival
for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/winterfestival | 29
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival 12
Thank you for picking up this guide. We would really appreciate a few minutes of your time to let us know how useful you found it. In return we will enter you into a prize draw for the chance to win £200! 1 Where did you pick up your copy of the Winter Festival brochure? 2 Do you live in the area or visiting? I live in Newcastle or Gateshead I live in the North East I’m visiting from outside the area, where?
3 What was your main reason for picking up the brochure? To find out about New Year’s Eve celebrations. To find out what else is happening in NewcastleGateshead during the Winter Festival. To find out about Enchanted Parks. Other:
7 Did you do anything else as part of your visit to attend any of the events? Shopping Eating Out Drinks Other entertainment Approximately how much did you spend? £ 8 Did the brochure inspire you to do something you wouldn’t ordinarily have done? Yes No If yes 9 Did you recommend any events included in this brochure to friends/family? Yes No If yes 10 To help us improve the way we promote our festivals and events, please tell us your: Favourite Newspaper
4 Did the brochure encourage you to attend any of the events or activities featured? Yes No If yes which ones
SATURDAY 24TH NOVEMBER FROM 12PM - SHIELDS RD, BYKER, NE6
FOR MORE INFO CONTACT US ON
ACTVITIES INCLUDE
Street Food Market, Arts & Crafts, Cooking Demos, Live Music, Cook-Off Competition & much more
www.foodnation.org /winterfestival.pdf info@foodnation.org 0191 276 0595
30 | for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/Winterfestival
5 Thinking about the events you attended A. Would you have known out about these events if you hadn’t picked up the brochure? Yes No B. Would you have attended these events if you hadn’t picked up the brochure? Yes No 6 Thinking about the events you attended what was the average group size? Adults Children
Favourite Website Favourite Radio Station 11 What is your preferred method of communication to find out about what’s on and things to do? Email Mobile Post TV Radio Web Newspaper Name Date of Birth Postcode Email I would like to be added to your database to receive future emails about events in NewcastleGateshead
Return your completed questionnaire (no stamp required) before 31 January 2013 to be entered into a prize draw to win £200. FREEPOST RSGZ-KJHR-SCAG, NewcastleGateshead Initiative, 9th Floor, Baltic Place East, South Shore Road, Gateshead, NE8 3AE for more details visit NewcastleGateshead.com/Winterfestival | 31
produced BY:
enchanted parks FUNDED BY:
produced BY:
New year’s eve funded by:
produced BY:
Media partners:
NewcastleGateshead Winter Festival is developed and produced by NewcastleGateshead Initiative as part of its events and festivals programme.
PUBLISHED BY: NewcastleGateshead Initiative 9th Floor, Baltic Place East, South Shore Road, Gateshead NE8 3AE Whilst every care has been taken in the accuracy of producing this guide, the publisher is not liable for any errors or omissions which may inadvertently occur. All information in this publication is subject to change. Details are correct at time of going to print – Oct 2012. DESIGN: Founded / wearefounded.com