Geordie celebration and Newcastle United jokes at Newcastle’s Christmas Lights

It’s a rainy evening in Newcastle, but that isn’t stopping the crowds flocking to the city centre in excitement as tonight is the night Newcastle will light up for Christmas.

We spoke to the people of Newcastle eagerly anticipating the event before it started at 6pm. One resident, Camerin told us: “It’s really heartwarming to see everyone come together for this. I’m so excited!”

We also spoke to two Newcastle university students named Fran and Eve who had spontaneously decided to come along to the event. Eve said: “We just thought it would be nice to come, and get into the festive spirit!” While Fran said she would love to see Ant and Dec return to Newcastle one day to switch on the lights.

Newcastle’s Christmas Light Switch On was more than that though, as a whole show packed with entertainment was put on for Newcastle.

Hosted by Metro Radio’s Steve and Karen, the show started with a performance from Frozen characters, Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Sven and Kristoff. They performed the huge song from the first film, Let It Go with snow shooting out from the stage to the delight of the excited kids in the crowd. After that, there were more Disney Princesses ready to perform.

The crowd were then introduced to a contestant from BBC’s I Can See Your Voice - Brooke Barber from South Shields who performed with Alexandra Burke on the TV show. Brooke then kicked off the start of the Christmas songs, singing Jingle Bell Rock.

More entertainment followed, games and more performances including from the cast of the Tyne Theatre’s pantomime, where the character “David Granola” made a joke towards Newcastle United’s former owner Mike Ashley.

Santa Claus and The Grinch appeared for two separate skits which made everyone laugh before inspiring young singer Tilly Lockey (also known as Bionic Girl) took to the stage to perform Leona Lewis’s One More Sleep.

Steve and Karen, Santa Claus, Tilly Lockey and The Lord Mayor (who thanked Newcastle for their consistent support), then turned on the lights to the amazement of the public as they watched the city light up in festive colours.