Fenwick Christmas Window Reveal 2026
Written by Ria Dawber on 4th November 2026
The annual unveiling of Fenwick’s Christmas display window took place on November 1, where an invited audience watched the countdown live on Northumberland Street, Newcastle.
The new window display was then open to the public on November 2, where people queued down the street to take a look.
This years theme took inspiration from children’s favourite, The Gruffalo’s Child.
Fenwick partnered with Magic Light Pictures and Macmillan Children’s Books to celebrate Dame Julia Donaldson’s 2004 book with famous illustrations from Axel Scheffler to bring this display to life.
The display shows the Gruffalo’s child along a snowy journey where she encounters Gruffalo story time favourites; Fox, Owl and Snake.
Image Credits: Fenwick
Dame Julia Donaldson, author of The Gruffalo, said: “It’s wonderful to see The Gruffalo’s Child brought to life in such a magical way at Fenwick. The Fenwick Christmas windows are such a lovely tradition in Newcastle, and I’m delighted that the story will be part of creating special memories for families this year.”
This year, Fenwick has reimagined the beloved story with a festive twist, creating a magical Christmas experience that celebrates the joy of storytelling and reading together.
Mia Fenwick, CEO of Fenwick, said: “Bringing Dame Julia Donaldson’s wonderful storytelling and Axel Scheffler’s iconic illustrations to life in a celebration of the power of stories to spark imagination and inspire a love of reading.”
For another year, Fenwick has partnered with Royal Northern Sinfonia, based at The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, to create a specially recorded soundtrack for its much-loved Christmas Window.
James Thomas, Executive Director, Royal Northern Sinfonia and Classical Music at The Glasshouse, said:
“There’s something really special about being part of Fenwick’s Christmas Window. It’s a tradition that means so much to people across the North East, and we’re delighted that Royal Northern Sinfonia can help bring the story to life through music once again.
In remembrance of the 2026 window display, Fenwick is selling limited-edition Gruffalo baubles.
Image Credits: Fenwick
With each bauble purchase, a donation will be made to the National Literacy Trust, their charity’s Words Matter program aims to boost children’s early language, literacy and communication, empowering people with the skills they need to succeed in life.
