Walking along Oxford Street with the Christmas lights this week, the John Lewis Christmas advert released today, festive bakes are out and Starbucks released their red cups. Christmas is definitely on the way! I’m really trying to not get too carried away this early but it’s hard not to! AND I’ve just been told the dates of the Newcastle Christmas market around Monument/Grey Street/Grainger Street this year. From 19th November – 9th December the European themed market will be back!

Newcastle Christmas Market

Last year I went one evening after work, it gets so busy at weekends, especially the queues for food that I found it to be a good time to go. There’s something a lot more magical about it at night in the dark as well, and you get the benefit of the warm drinks and hot food. The market is fairly small compared to the likes of York, Manchester and Edinburgh, but you can’t beat your own home town transformed into a Christmassy treat can you?

Newcastle Christmas Market

It always reminds me of when I was away at uni, and how much I missed home at that time of year. I couldn’t wait to get back amongst my own friends, family and the Geordie accent at Christmas. So regardless how small the market is, and how cold it is I always find the time to go.

Newcastle Christmas Market

The highlight has to be the food doesn’t it? Moroccan favourites, French cheese, Dutch waffles, the enormous sweet stand, and the German sausages. I’m going for a French crepe this year, and possibly the paella so will update how they are in a couple of weeks. I also find Christmas markets are really good for secret Santa inspiration especially for work ones.

Newcastle Christmas Market

This year the Grainger Market are also hosting a Christmas evening, from 5-9pm on Thursday 1st December. There’s some amazing little businesses and food places in there, Pet Lamb Patisserie and The French Oven are my favourites so I can’t wait to see what Christmas treats they have in store.