Northern Lights 2023: Everything you need to know as Newcastle's light trail opens to the public

Members of the public can enjoy the Northern Lights trail, in Leazes Park, from today (Thursday, November 23) and throughout the rest of the festive period.

The after-dark winter attraction combines immersive visuals, original audio and illuminations at the city centre park.

Northern Lights is the only light trail in Newcastle with special effects, dynamic choreography and a Christmas village to provide entertainment for the whole family.

We've put together a handy guide so you can get the most out of your Northern Lights experience.

What can I expect at Northern Lights?

The light show is produced by an award-winning combination of local and national creators, including people who have worked at Glastonbury and with Netflix.

The trail is billed as an "enthralling 90-minute experience", with the route being over a mile long.

Along the way, visitors will be able to get a glimpse of world-class installations and a stunning lakeside spectacle.

Organisers of the event have confirmed that there will be 14 different immersive illuminations throughout the park, each creating a captivating journey through an array of enchanting zones.

Once visitors reach the Christmas Village, they will be able to enjoy vintage fairground rides and local food traders.

These local vendors include Fat Hippo, Acropolis Greek, Truly Madly Pizza, Twisted Chicken, Mac & Cheese, and more.

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Is the route accessible?

The organisers of Northern Lights have ensured that every part of the event is fully accessible to wheelchairs, buggies and prams.

Great care has been taken to ensure that everyone can enjoy the event, with the addition of seating areas and ramp access points for those who need them.

Special provisions are also in place to reserve Access time slots, where quieter audio and reduced visitor numbers aim to support neuro-divergent visitors.

Organisers have also ensured that queue jump wristbands are also available to those with additional needs.

What time does Northern Lights open?

Northern Lights will run for five weeks in Newcastle city centre from Thursday, November 23, until Monday, January 1.

Between November 23 and 30, the event will operate between 4.30pm and 8.15pm.

Then from December 1 until January 1, Northern Lights will be open to the public from 4.15pm until 8.15pm.

Do I need to buy tickets?

Northern Lights is a ticketed event, meaning that you will need to purchase one to gain entry to Leazes Park.

The price for a single ticket starts from £13.50 for children over the age of 13, £19 for adults and £61.50 for a family ticket of four.

Organisers have confirmed that children under the aged two and under go free.

Tickets for the event are on sale now at: www.northernlightsnewcastle.com.