Looking for Christmas events in Newcastle to enjoy with the kids in 2026? Charlestown Square is getting ready for a festive season filled with family-friendly activities, including a Christmas carnival, Santa’s Arrival Parade and a magical Santa’s Tea Party.
From finding things to do with kids in Newcastle, planning your annual Santa photos to simply wanting to enjoy some Christmas festivities with the family, there are plenty of reasons to add Charlestown Square to your festive calendar.
Here are the Christmas events and activities to look out for at Charlestown Square this November and December.
Santa’s Arrival Parade and Christmas Carnival at Charlestown Square
One of the highlights of the Newcastle Christmas events calendar is Santa’s grand arrival at Charlestown Square on Saturday 14 November.
Families are invited to join the Christmas carnival from 9am in the South Piazza, with carnival treats including FREE fairy floss and popcorn, alongside plenty of festive entertainment for the kids.
Santa will make his grand entrance at 10am, followed by a Christmas parade through the shopping Centre. Expect colourful circus performers, stilt walkers, hula hoopers and plenty of festive fun as Santa makes his way to his carnival-themed Santa set.
It’s a lovely opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit and kick off the festive season with the family.
Date: Saturday 14 November 2026
Time: From 9am
Location: South Piazza, Level 1
Register for Santa’s Arrival Parade.
Santa’s Tea Party at Charlestown Square
If your kids love a bit of Christmas magic, Santa’s Tea Party is another festive event worth checking out
Inspired by Charlestown Square’s Christmas Carnival theme, this is a whimsical twist on the traditional Santa’s Breakfast, with a topsy-turvy tea party experience for little ones and their families.
Children can look forward to a visit from Santa, delicious treats, lively entertainment and interactive fun in a festive setting.
There are two session times available across the weekend, at 8.30am and 10.30am, with the event taking place in the Food Court near Kickin’Inn on Level 2.
Bookings are essential, and with limited sessions available, it’s worth securing your spot early.
Date: Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December 2026
Time: 8.30am and 10.30am sessions
Location: Food Court, Level 2
Cost: $10 + booking fee
Book your Santa’s Tea Party session.
There are a few more festive activities to look forward to if you’re planning a family visit.
Santa photos
Santa photos will be available from Saturday 14 November through to Christmas Eve. There are traditional Santa photo sessions, Sensitive Santa sessions for families who prefer a quieter experience, and pet photography sessions so four-legged family members can join in too.
There’s also an extra incentive to book early! Families who book and have their Santa photo taken by 4 December will go in the draw to win a $10,000 travel voucher. Terms and conditions apply. Book your Santa photos.
Meet the Grinch in Newcastle
The Grinch is also making an appearance at Charlestown Square on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November. Kids can meet the famous Christmas character and snap a free selfie on your phone. It’s a fun photo opportunity for little Grinch fans!
Plan your Christmas visit to Charlestown Square
From welcoming Santa with a carnival parade to enjoying a festive tea party, there are plenty of opportunities to make some Christmas memories with the kids at Charlestown Square this year.
Our tip? Put the event dates in your calendar now and book the Tea Party and Santa photos early, as sessions are limited.
For more information, event updates and bookings, visit the Charlestown Square website.