Who doesn't love wandering around a Christmas market on a cold, crisp day? The perfect festive atmosphere, they're packed with stalls serving up delicious food and drinks, unique gifts and an array of festive entertainment.
Chronicle Live writer Barbara Hodgson paid a visit to the Newcastle Christmas Market on its opening day at the weekend, discovering that it has a 'whole new vibe' for this year. Here's her thoughts on why you should pay it a visit. Decked out in fairy lights and florals, with furry throws over wooden bench seats, the igloos are warm and inviting - their heating was particularly welcome on such a cold day and it made them more cosy than Barbara expected.
Most of the 35-plus traders this year are local and they span a great range. The Moosenwirt alpine bar is an annual favourite and is back in its usual spot where several people are already gathered around fire pits with their drinks. There's an Elf School on the green and an outdoor Rockin' Robin performance stage where families can book a mix of festive sessions.