Fireworks spectacle coming to Newcastle

Fireworks spectacle coming to Newcastle

27 September 2023

NEWCASTLE’S spectacular Halloween fireworks display will go off with a bang next month and will be bigger than ever.

The fireworks display will once again form the centrepiece of the resort’s Halloween celebrations on October 29 with the event also featuring the traditional fancy dress parade.

Newcastle Chamber of Commerce is organising this year’s festival and members are due to meet next week to put the final touches to one of the biggest events on the town’s entertainment calendar.

The former Down Council launched the Hallowtides festival over two decades ago with the baton passed to its successor, Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

Last year, the autumn extravaganza was organised by Newcastle Community Cinema but this year the recently reformed Chamber of Commerce has taken over the reins with financial support provided by the local authority.

Chamber president, Terry Hutley, said it’s all systems go with Chamber officials currently waiting to hear from the Coastguard when the tide will be right to launch the fireworks display.

The fireworks are mounted on a trailer and driven along the town’s beach in front of Central Promenade which provides a natural amphitheatre from which to watch the spectacular display.

Such is the popularity of the event that it’s standing room only with the Chamber looking forward to next month’s event.

“The fireworks display will be from the same location and we hope to confirm the time shortly. It will be the same location only we are going a bit bigger this year,” he said. “We are also doing a parade this year as well. 

“We have a fireworks display and parade put together, times for which we don’t have at the minute. We are meeting to sort these out and we will know more next week.”

Mr Hutley said the Chamber reformed about four months ago and in addition to the Hallowtides festival, the organisation has also taken on running Christmas markets this year.

“There is plenty coming in Newcastle this year,” he said. “We also have big plans for 2024 as well to coincide with the Irish Open coming back to Newcastle and are planning a golf village in the centre of the town,” he said.

Mr Hutley added: “Things are definitely looking up for Newcastle.”

Mournes councillor Willie Clarke is delighted the fireworks display is going ahead this year.

“The Hallowtides festival is one of the most popular in the district and the annual fireworks display attracts thousands of people into the town which is good news for businesses and the local economy,” he said.

“The resort is buzzing at Halloween and the spectacular fireworks display and children’s fancy dress parade makes for a great family night out.”

Cllr Clarke said there was always a great atmosphere in Newcastle with the Hallowtides festival the main event after the traditionally busy summer period which takes place ahead of the town’s forthcoming Christmas festivities.

He also extended his best wishes to the rejuvenated Chamber of Commerce.

“I believe it is important to have the Chamber at the heart of not only the decision making process but the organisation of major events in the town.

“The recent Eats and Beats Festival was an outstanding success and I have no doubt Newcastle will be packed for the October 29 fireworks display,” Cllr Clarke continued.

“Newcastle needs a vibrant Chamber of Commerce and with a number of new members who have the interests of the town very much at heart, I believe it will play an increasingly important role moving forward.”

Cllr Clarke also believes a properly organised fireworks display will help persuade young people to come into the town and enjoy it rather letting off fireworks in their local neighbourhoods.

He added: “I’m sure the emphasis on next month’s festival is family fun and entertainment and I know many many people will be delighted to learn that Newcastle’s annual fireworks display is to continue.

“Its a great night out and the town will be buzzing.”