Newcastle is preparing to welcome 2027 in style as Howaymanay returns to the city’s iconic Quayside on Thursday 31st December, promising a night of live music, entertainment, food, drink and spectacular fireworks.
Following a hugely successful inaugural event that sold out last year, the celebration is back for its second year, bringing thousands of revellers together for what organisers hope will become one of the UK’s standout New Year’s Eve celebrations.
This year’s Howaymanay will feature two stages of live music, alongside roaming performers, street entertainment, bars and food operators, giving visitors plenty to enjoy throughout the evening.
The celebrations will build towards midnight, when the Tyne will provide the dramatic backdrop for a fireworks spectacular illuminating Newcastle’s skyline as the city welcomes the arrival of 2027.
Last year’s inaugural event attracted thousands of people and sold out in mid-December, establishing Howaymanay as a major addition to the region’s festive calendar.
Organisers are now looking to build on that success, delivering an even bigger celebration that brings together residents and visitors to enjoy the atmosphere of Newcastle’s famous riverside setting.
Cllr Rob Austin, Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities and Youth Services at Newcastle City Council, said the return of Howaymanay reflected the city’s ambition to strengthen its cultural offering.
“Newcastle has a cultural offer to be proud of, and after a fantastic and hugely successful first year, we’re delighted to see Howaymanay return for its second year,” he said.
He added that the event would help put Newcastle firmly on the map as a destination for New Year’s Eve, while providing an entertaining evening for people from across the region and beyond.
Howaymanay is not just for those planning to stay out until midnight. Families can enjoy the celebrations earlier in the evening with a free fireworks display at 6pm.
The family-friendly event offers an opportunity to experience the festive atmosphere and enjoy a spectacular display without committing to the later ticketed celebrations.
Cllr Austin said the council was pleased to retain the free early-evening fireworks, ensuring families could take part in the celebrations together.
The earlier display forms part of Newcastle’s wider Christmas programme, delivered and funded by Newcastle City Council and Newcastle NE1.
Stephen Patterson, Chief Executive of NE1 Ltd, said the Quayside provided the perfect setting to see out 2026 and welcome the New Year.
He said organisers were delighted to bring Howaymanay back following last year’s sell-out success, with live music, street entertainment and midnight fireworks once again at the heart of the celebrations.
“With the earlier free family-focused celebrations, there is something for everyone to enjoy,” he said, adding that the event reinforced Newcastle’s position among the UK’s leading destinations for New Year’s Eve.
The main ticketed event will run from 8.30pm until 12.15am and is suitable for visitors aged eight and over. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Tickets cost £8, plus a booking fee, with numbers limited due to the event’s capacity. Given last year’s sell-out, visitors are being encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.
Food and drink will be available across the site, with bars and food operators complementing the entertainment throughout the night.
There will be three designated entrances: Sandhill/Guildhall, King Street and East Quayside/Millennium Bridge. Ticket holders must enter through the entrance selected during booking.
With its combination of free family fireworks, live entertainment and a spectacular midnight finale, Howaymanay aims to establish a New Year’s Eve tradition worthy of Newcastle’s character and reputation.
Tickets are available now through TicketTailor, where visitors can also find full event details and booking information.
