After a five-year hiatus, Newcastle’s iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks are finally making a grand return. The Quayside will once again light up with not one but two spectacular displays, offering the perfect way to welcome 2025.
Whether you’re out with the family or gearing up for a big night out, this year’s celebrations are set to be unforgettable.
Two Stunning Displays for Everyone to Enjoy
The fireworks are the headline act of Newcastle’s festive season, and for good reason. Organised by Newcastle City Council and NE1, the displays are free for all to enjoy and will be held at 6pm and midnight.
The 6pm display is ideal for families, giving you a chance to celebrate with the little ones without pushing bedtimes to breaking point. For those who love the buzz of ringing in the New Year, the midnight show promises to deliver all the drama and excitement you could want. Both displays will last 15 minutes giving you plenty of firework fun.
Make the Most of the Quayside Atmosphere
Newcastle’s Quayside is the designated viewing area. It stretches from the Tyne Bridge to the Cycle Hub, and also covers Baltic Square on Gateshead Quayside, giving you plenty of options to find the perfect spot.
If you prefer a quieter vantage point, the fireworks will also be visible from wider areas across Newcastle and Gateshead.
In the hour leading up to each display, the Quayside will come alive with walkabout performers and local traders. Combine this with Newcastle’s great choice of restaurants, pubs, and bars, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a brilliant New Year's Eve in the city.
What’s Changed Since the Last Fireworks in 2019?
Newcastle’s fireworks were replaced by laser light shows during the Covid era, touted as a more environmentally friendly option. However, public demand for the return of fireworks has been strong, and the council has listened.
After consulting their climate change team, they’ve concluded that the environmental impact of the fireworks themselves is relatively small, especially as the event no longer uses generators for power.
The council has emphasised that the biggest environmental factor is how people travel to the event. So, if you’re planning to head down, consider using public transport. It’s not only more sustainable but also saves you from the hassle of road closures and parking headaches.
Plan Your Evening Like a Pro
Speaking of road closures, keep in mind that car access to the Quayside and surrounding areas will be restricted from 4pm. Public transport is your best bet, with Newcastle’s excellent bus and metro services making it easy to get to and from the city centre.
If you’re coming with the kids for the 6pm display, consider grabbing an early dinner at one of Newcastle’s family-friendly eateries before heading to the Quayside.
For the midnight crowd, why not book a table at one of the city’s renowned restaurants or enjoy a few celebratory drinks at a local bar before the big countdown?
Newcastle Welcomes 2025 in Style
There’s nothing quite like fireworks to bring people together and mark the start of a new year, and Newcastle’s iconic Quayside offers one of the most best backdrops in the UK for the occasion. Whether you’re a local or visiting the city for the celebrations, these displays promise a spectacular and memorable start to 2025.