Hit reset with community-focused New Year’s events

Novocastrians will be able to ring in the New Year at a series of localised events designed to safely bring the community together to celebrate the end of 2020.

Family-friendly picnics in the park, pool parties, food trucks and food-focused market stalls will be on offer around the city on 31 December and 1 January.

Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the community events would provide a vibrant alternative to the usual Foreshore fireworks display and concert, which was put on hold this year due to COVID-19.

“In a year that’s been very different from what anyone would have expected, we’ve decided to do things a little differently when it comes to our New Year’s celebrations,” Cr Clausen said.

“After making the difficult decision to cancel our traditional fireworks event this year, we’ve been working on ways to bring the party to the people and allow Novocastrians to celebrate closer to home.

“To that end, we’re putting on seven localised events on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day that will provide festive opportunities for our community to reconnect, reflect, and refresh heading into 2021.

“You can pack a picnic blanket, bring a basket and stock up on your favourite goodies from local food providers before settling back with family and friends to enjoy a picnic in the park.

“Our swimming centres will also allow you to splash into 2021 at festive pool parties where you can make a day of it with water-based inflatables, roving entertainment and a selection of food trucks.”

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes Nelmes said the fireworks display planned for 2020 would be deferred until 2021 when festivities would return to the Newcastle Foreshore, subject to any public health orders in place at that time.

“2020 has been a year like no other, but what it has shown above all is our community’s ability to work together for the benefit of all,” Cr Nelmes said.

“The city deserves the chance to celebrate what we have achieved together this year and everything we’re looking forward to in 2021.

“I encourage Novocastrians to enjoy the New Year’s period in a COVID Safe way, whether they attend one of our events, support our local restaurants and bars, or gather with friends and family at home.”

The New Year’s program will include:

• Food Markets at Lambton Park and Dixon Park on New Year’s Eve (3pm to 8pm), including roving entertainment and children’s activities.
• Activations at Beresfield, Mayfield, Stockton and Wallsend pools on New Year’s Day (10am to 4pm), including inflatables, food trucks and roving entertainment.
• Food Markets at Richley Reserve on New Year’s Day (10am to 4pm), including roving entertainment, children’s activities and a ‘sensory zone’ for people with disabilities and their families.

Visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/NYE for more information.