Newcastle’s Christmas lights switch-on moves to Blackett Street

Metro Radio’s Steve and Karen will once again host the evening of festive fun, with award-winning Geordie musician Sam Fender set to switch on the lights from the new location.

Sam won’t be performing on the evening, but with bigger crowds expected this year the live stage has been relocated to Blackett Street, just before the Eldon Square bridge, for the occasion.

The crowds can enjoy an evening of entertainment with live music from performers including Jonny ‘Blue Hat’ Davis, Sam’s Saxophonist and a special festive onstage panto performance from the cast of Aladdin at the Tyne Theatre.

Two big screens will also show live coverage of the events on the stage; one on Grey Street and the other on Grainger Street. These areas will be more suitable for anyone bringing children and buggies on the evening. We expect it to be less hectic here, so please head that way.

The evening of family fun starts at 5.30pm, with the lights switch-on taking place just before 6.30pm.

There will still be a great atmosphere on Grey Street and Grainger Street, both being fantastic places to see the canopy of Christmas lights being switched on. Please be aware if Blackett Street does get too busy, you will be redirected to Grey Street by stewards.

Blackett Street will be closed from 10am until 9pm on Thursday 7 November to allow for this popular event to be set up safely and take place. During this time, bus stops will be temporary relocated to Pilgrim Street and Percy Street.

20,000 handmade poppies will also be tied around Old Eldon Square ahead of Remembrance Sunday, so please respect this display.

The switch-on is always a popular event so we advise those travelling to use public transport such as the Metro or the bus when heading into the city centre.