An outdoor summer pop-up, dubbed the North East's biggest beer garden, is to make a comeback it has been announced, as new images reveal an even 'bigger and better' new look - and a new rooftop bar - for 2022.
Central Park made its debut in Newcastle over the May Bank Holiday weekend last year, attracting crowds of all ages keen to make the most of a chance to socialise following months of lockdown.
Creating a container village of summer-theme bars and food outlets in Times Square, with a big screen featuring sports and Eurovision action, it was bold in both scale and ambition following all the pandemic restrictions.
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And now it seems that this year - when it makes its comeback in April, with first bookings open from Friday - the city attraction will be even bigger and better, as organisers reveal plans to up capacity and add to its entertainment programme, while releasing 3D images show its new look.
This time Central Park will cover a multi-storey space in Times Square, and will include a new rooftop bar overlooking the main square, for a four-month run from April 14 until August 21.
It will have an increased capacity for 2,000 people, with an expanded covered area providing shelter for around 800 of them plus heated areas and private options.
Throughout its run there will be live music and DJ day parties and visitors will be able to make the most of a new street food court and sports bar alongside entertainment including Eurovision, sport and movie screenings plus Kroud Karaoke and Let’s Play Darts events.
Co-organiser Mike Hesketh said: "Last year was an amazing experience creating a social space for everyone to enjoy coming out of the pandemic and entering the phenomenal Euro 2020s, but this year we have stepped up the site and created some amazing multi-level, unique themed spaces for folk to enjoy all spring and summer long.”
Other new additions will include a beach-style hangout with VIP roof terrace, luxury toilet facilities and a new performance stage, for which local promoters 456 Live are currently planning the live music line-up.
And all of the summer’s major sporting events will be shown on a 4k LED screen, including the FA Cup Final, Wimbledon and Royal Ascot.
Co-organiser Gabriel Day added: “How excited we are to have a full Times Square event space for all to visit.
"Last year due to Covid restrictions the site was just 500 seated-only capacity and now it’s up to 2,000, so it’s going to be an even more vibrant, party destination this year!”
Booking for Central Park's main Saturday and Bank Holiday sessions will open online here on March 4 where there will also a draw to enter for free tickets and a VIP experience at the launch weekend.
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