Howaymanay Returns to Newcastle Quayside for New Year's Eve 2026

If you are planning where to see in 2027, Newcastle has given its answer early. Howaymanay, the city's New Year's Eve party on the Quayside, is returning on Thursday 31 December 2026, and tickets are already on sale. Last year's first event sold out by mid-December, so anyone hoping to go would be wise to book well before the festive rush.

What is happening on the night

Howaymanay runs from 8.30pm until 12.15am, with last entry at 11pm. The riverside becomes a ticket-only party with live music and DJs across two stages, roaming performers, street entertainment, bars and food stalls. At midnight the focus turns to the Tyne for a fireworks finale to welcome in the new year.

The event is delivered by Newcastle City Council and the business improvement district Newcastle NE1, as part of the city's Christmas programme. As Bdaily reported, organisers are building on last year's debut with the same two-stage format.

Tickets and entry

Tickets cost £8 plus a £1 booking fee, and capacity is limited. According to the official Howaymanay listing, the event is suitable for ages 8 and over, and under-16s must be accompanied by an adult and need a ticket of their own.

There are three separate entrances, and you must use the one you choose when booking:

• Entrance A: Sandhill / Guildhall
• Entrance B: King Street
• Entrance C: East Quayside / Millennium Bridge

You cannot switch to a different entrance on the night, and there is no re-entry once you leave. Tickets are sold through the council's Ticket Tailor page.

A free option for families

Not everyone wants to stay up until midnight. A free fireworks display on the Quayside at 6pm needs no ticket and is aimed at families with younger children and early risers. It is a good choice if your group includes children under eight, who cannot attend the main event.

Best for: Howaymanay: Thursday 31 December 2026, 8.30pm to 12.15am (last entry 11pm), Newcastle Quayside. Tickets £8 plus booking fee, ages 8+. Free family fireworks at 6pm, no ticket needed.

Road closures and travel arrangements for the night are usually published by Newcastle City Council closer to the date, so check before you set off. For more festive plans in the city centre, see our guide to Christmas markets in Newcastle.