From Cocoa to Cocktails: Newcastle’s Carols Get a Festive Remix at Newgate Social
Newcastle upon Tyne, December 2025 — This Christmas, Newgate Social is hosting two unique festive events that promise to shake up the season: Carols & Cocoa (family-friendly, 4:30pm) and Carols & Cocktails (adults-only, 7:30pm).
Forget the usual carol concert — these shows are part bandioke, part gig, part sing-along spectacular. Audiences don’t just watch; they become the choir. Backed by live musicians, the crowd belts out carols and cheesy Christmas classics with all the joy (and volume) of a stadium gig, proving that festive spirit is best shared.
Everyone’s just big kids at heart. In the afternoon, families gather over hot chocolate and marshmallows for Carols & Cocoa. By evening, the same format gets a cheeky remix: Carols & Cocktails, where the sugar rush is swapped for seasonal spirits and laughter.
Both events celebrate community, and the simple joy of singing together. Whether you’re tone-perfect or tone-deaf, you belong. It’s a chance for Newcastle to come together — parents, pals, colleagues — and rediscover the magic of carols and Christmas number ones in a way that’s fresh, fun, and unforgettable.
Tickets start at as low as £4.50 for Carols & Cocoa & £12.50 for Carols & Cocktails. ALL TICKETS INCLUDE 1 FREE DRINK!
Ticket prices increase as the party date approaches so secure yours now and keep more cash for Christmas treats at the bar – be that sugary or boozy!
The events are hosted and produced by Ali Pritchard, best known for founding Alphabetti Theatre and leading it for over a decade until Oct 2024. During this time, he grew it into one of the world’s leading studio theatres and in 2021 he launched Newcastle Fringe Festival. His work saw him presented to King Charles in 2024 in recognition of services to grassroots arts and culture. Now this long-limbed adopted wannabe Geordie — with labrador-esque energy — is brushing down his sparkles and his singing qualifications to lead Newcastle in festive fun.
Ali will be joined on stage by a stellar line-up:
· Jenni Winter on keys — a familiar face behind pianos across Newcastle, co-host of Pianioke at Prohibition Cabaret Bar for four years, contributor to Boho Arts’ Glitter Curtain cabaret nights, and a teacher of acting and music across the North East.
· Abigail Brierley on trumpet — a brass player and teacher for over a decade, focused on community spaces and making music fun and accessible. She’s a regular in Newcastle city centre, pit bands, musicals, session work, and original projects.
· Jamie Howzat — comedian and videographer, bringing his trademark goof-ball antics. Known for injecting silliness into live performances and online events, he’ll provide words and visuals: karaoke lyrics, Christmas animations, and jumbotron fun.
“It’s going to be fun, festive, and mega silly. What’s really awesome is that when we sing collectively, science says our hearts beat in unison — so all 400-odd of us will be thumping out the rhythm of Partridge in a Pear Tree together!” said Ali Pritchard.
Together, they and Newgate Social will deliver two flavours of festive joy:
· Carols & Cocoa — hot chocolate, marshmallows, and family sing-alongs.
· Carols & Cocktails — the same energy, but with seasonal spirits and laughter.
Event Details:
· Carols & Cocoa — Monday 22 December, 4:30pm, Newgate Social
· Carols & Cocktails — Monday 22 December, 7:30pm, Newgate Social
Venue: Newgate Social, The Gate, Newgate Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5TG
Phone: 01912221113
Website: The Newgate Social | What's On
Tickets & Pricing: From £4.50 (Carols & Cocoa) and £12.50 (Carols & Cocktails). All tickets include one free drink. Prices rise closer to the date — book early!
Accessibility: Newgate Social is located up a flight of stairs. There are handrails on both sides, but please note that there is currently no step-free access to the venue.
Child Policy & Buggy Access Babies in arms are welcome free of charge. If they’re up and walking, they’ll need a child ticket (valid for anyone under 18).
Please note: buggies and pushchairs will need to be carried upstairs into the venue and parked in our designated area. This is essential for health and safety and fire regulations, and we appreciate your understanding.
Under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult
