Christmas comes early
THE FESTIVE TIPI THAT GOT EVERYONE TALKING IS BACK FOR ANOTHER YEAR – SIMON DUKE GOT A SNEAK PEEK
IT’S still technically mid-October but Christmas has come early to Newcastle city centre.
Fenwick has opened its Christmas department; Christmas lights went up on Northumberland Street and the premature festive spirit is running over by the bucketload thanks to the return of Hadrian’s Tipi to Newcastle.
Since making its debut outside Central Station in 2016, the festive pop-up bar has been a massive hit with locals and visitors to Newcastle alike.
Last year it moved up to Pilgrim Street on the site of the old Odeon cinema, where it was joined by a host of different food and drink vendors.
But of course since then huge shipping container STACK has opened there, meaning Hadrian’s Tipi will be its centrepiece in the run-up to Christmas and New Year.
We paid a visit to the Tipi ahead of its opening on Friday night and I’m pleased to report that the things people loved about it in the past two years are back, with the festive lights up, the fire ready to roar and the DJ booth returning to provide a soundtrack to cosy drinks.
Hadrian’s Tipi and STACK are run by Danieli Holdings and right on cue for the Tipi’s opening and some wet and rainy weather in Newcastle, the company have covered over the central plaza part of STACK with a stretch tent, meaning you don’t have to worry about getting wet if you want to enjoy some drinks outside of the Tipi. And as we head closer to Christmas, it won’t just be the Tipi getting in the mood for Santa coming. A number of the many other attractions at STACK, including bars, restaurants and retailers, will also be offering Christmas products and deals.
Back in the Tipi, there will be plenty to enjoy with music from DJs including presenters from Capital North East and a host of local acts.
Hadrian’s Tipi will be open daily at STACK from 10am – midnight. Entry is free.
I’m pleased to report that the things people loved about it in the past two years are back
Simon Duke