Thousands head out for fireworks and NYE run

31 December 2025

Tom Burgessand

Chris Robinson,North East and Cumbria

News image — Crowds watched the first of two New Year's Eve fireworks displays in Sunderland

North News and Pictures Fireworks in Sunderland as crowds watch on. One man is wearing a woolly Sunderland football club hat. — Crowds watched the first of two New Year's Eve fireworks displays in Sunderland

Thousands of people are heading out for New Year's Eve celebrations at events across the North East.

Runners have taken part in the first HogmanHoway 5k in Newcastle as part of a larger Howaymanay celebration at the Quayside.

In Sunderland, entertainment is taking place at Keel Square with organisers putting on two fireworks displays to welcome in 2026.

Councillor Beth Jones, Sunderland City Council's cabinet member for communities and culture, said it was a fantastic opportunity for families to "celebrate the New Year in style".

The first display took place 18:30 GMT with the second timed to begin at midnight.

"With two spectacular firework displays, a fantastic community parade, live entertainment, and plenty of family-friendly activities, it promises to be a wonderful night to remember," Jones said.

Throughout the evening there will be live entertainment from tribute acts to Harry Styles, Abba and Sabrina Carpenter.

North News Pictures Street performers are lit up in pink light while playing the drums to people walking past. — Sunderland celebrations include a community parade

The 5km (3.1-mile) run through Newcastle city centre has been organised by former world champion athlete Steve Cram.

Ahead of the event, Cram said organisers were hoping for 2,000 entries, with hopes that number will increase if the event takes place again next year.

He said: "We have lots of people come into the city centre for New Year's Eve celebrations, mainly for the fireworks, so why not add something else that people can take part in and enjoy?"

Newcastle's Howaymanay will feature buskers and lantern puppets as well as a midnight firework display. Tickets have sold out.

A free fireworks display was held at 18:00 for those who wanted to celebrate without the late night.

NE1 Fireworks behind The Glasshouse in Gateshead on the Quayside. They light up the night sky. — Families were among those who watched an early evening fireworks display along the Quayside, ahead of midnight celebrations

The Gateshead Millennium Bridge will close at 22:00 and re-open after the midnight spectacle.

Event organisers are hoping Howaymanay will become an annual event.

Councillor Abdul Samad, cabinet member for culture, music and arts at Newcastle City Council, said: "Plans for Howaymanay have really come to life, and visitors are in for something very special.

"A huge amount of work has gone into creating an event that feels truly unique to Newcastle – a night full of energy, entertainment and that unmistakable Geordie spirit."