Plenty of festive fun for everyone
FAMILIES in North Tyneside will be spoiled for choice over the upcoming festive season as a bumper programme of winter treats gets under way.
The annual Winter Festival, organised by North Tyneside Council, attracts thousands of people to the area with an array of events taking place over the festive period.
Dozens of events will follow over the coming months, including Christmas markets, Santa’s grottos and pantomimes – running up until January 2020.
Ahead of the start of the festivities, Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn said: “Our Winter Festival has become a staple of our annual events calendar, so I’m delighted that we have been able to host it again this year.
“We know how important it is to our residents, the programme is packed full of events and activities for the whole family to enjoy and I can’t wait for us to get under way at the fireworks display on The Links.”
Here is a pick of just a few events to enjoy in the area:
WHITLEY BAY
■ A free fireworks display will light up the North Tyneside sky to mark the start of the huge programme of winter events.
And this year, the festival will get under way on November 3 with a fireworks display on The Links, in Whitley Bay.
Fairground rides and hot food will be available from 6pm, with the show starting from 7pm.
The North Tyneside Fireworks Display is organised by North Tyneside Council and is supporting the national Every Mind Matters scheme, promoting healthy mindsets in people of all ages.
■ The town will also be seeing in the New Year with another fireworks display at the Spanish City on New Year’s Eve.
WALLSEND
■ Hundreds of spectators are expected to gather at the annual Segedunum fireworks at the fort display.
As well as firework fun, visitors can explore the museum for free.
The display is on November 5, entry is from 4pm, with the fireworks starting at 6.30pm.
BENTON
■ A family fireworks display will be held at the Blue Flames Conference and Leisure Centre on November 5, with fairground rides, stalls and food also on offer.
Gates open at 5pm and the display starts at 7pm. Advanced tickets are £4.50 for adults and £3.50 for children, plus booking fee.
NORTH SHIELDS
■ One of the most popular events on the programme, the North Shields Victorian Market, will take place on December 7 and 8.
With over 100 stalls available, there will be a wide range of Christmas gifts on offer.
TYNEMOUTH
■ Tynemouth Cricket Club’s annual grand fireworks display will be held
on November 9 this year at 7pm. The family event will feature a bonfire, rides and refreshments. Tickets cost £5 for adults, £2 for children, and family tickets are £12, plus booking fee.
■ Tynemouth Station will be hosting a popular Christmas market under its glass canopies.
Visitors can choose Christmas gifts and quirky stocking fillers from 250 unique independent stores.
It will be held on weekends during November and December between 9am and 3.30pm.
Shoppers can also enjoy the village’s Christmas Shopping night, on November 7, when selected businesses will be open until 8pm, offering discounts, mulled wine and mince pies.
For more information search for Tynemouth Village Christmas shopping night on Facebook.