Revealed! Newcastle’s city Christmas light switch is BACK - who will be there, when it’s happening and where

Newcastle’s big Christmas light switch on is happening this year - and despite other events scaling back, it will be open to the public.

Here’s details of when it is going to happen and more.

When is the switch on happening?

Newcastle is already counting down to the big Christmas lights switch-on, which will take place on Thursday, November 11, kicking off festive celebrations in the city.

Newcastle City Council has announced the public can attend this year’s big switch-on in the city centre after coronavirus forced last year’s event to take place online.

The full programme for Christmas in the city is yet to be announced.

Who is hosting the event?

The switch-on, sponsored by Northumbria Cars, will once again be hosted by Metro Radio.

It will feature live music, street theatre, on stage competitions which will include the announcement of Metro Radio’s key worker competition.

Where will the switch on take place - and at what time?

The event will take place on Grey Street, Newcastle.

Things will kick-off at around 6pm.

Who will be there and what is happening on the night?

There is set to be a visit from the Lord Mayor, as well as a host of panto stars and a special guest appearance from Santa himself.

Also, it wouldn’t be Christmas without Frozen, so the snow sisters, Elsa and Anna, will be making a special appearance with their favourite snowman, Olaf.

Are there any Covid restrictions on the night?

A Newcastle City Council statement said: “With Covid cases still high, council officials are asking people to wear masks and follow public health measures. To keep the event safe, if anyone is feeling ill, has tested positive for Covid-19 or is showing symptoms, they should not attend the event.”

What’s been said about the event?

Cllr Ged Bell, Cabinet Member for Development, Neighbourhoods and Transport said: “It’s great to welcome back this much-loved event that marks the official start of the festive celebrations in our city.

“We’ve been working hard to deliver the big switch on so that it’s safe and fun for everyone. There’ll be entertainment and activities for everyone to enjoy. It’s also a great boost for local businesses.

“So, get those Christmas jumpers and Santa hats on and join us for what promises to be a brilliant event to get everyone in the festive mood.”

Steve Furnell, of Metro Radio’s Breakfast Show, said: “Karen and I have hosted this event for several years now and it really is one of the highlights of our year. It’s great news that it’s back in the calendar and we’re looking forward to getting on stage and having some festive fun with the people of Newcastle.”