With just hours to go until the big day, Christmas Eve shoppers flocked to Newcastle City Centre in a bid to find the perfect gift and stock up on dinner-table essentials.
On Northumberland Street, there were many families queuing to marvel at Fenwick's annual Christmas window display and carols played by a brass band provided a fitting sound-track.
However with Covid cases rising in the UK and grey skies, the central shopping street was quieter than it's been in years gone-by.
Go here for the latest news live from Newcastle city centre
Lyn Holmes from the food and drink kiosk 'Saye's To Go', said: “It used to be much busier along Northumberland Street at Christmas time, but Covid has taken away some of that buzz and atmosphere.
“I think a lot of people are still scared to come out, which is a real shame. There's residue fear from last year and now the new variant has spooked lots of older people.
“Personally, I'm really looking forward to having some time off. My daughter is 37, but she still gets excited like a little kid."
For Cheryl Palmer and her family, a visit to Northumberland Street on Christmas eve is a much-loved tradition.
Cheryl has been bringing her niece and nephew, who travel up from London, to the Fenwick’s window every Christmas Eve “since they were tiny”.
This year, her daughter is also old enough to enjoy the "impressive" Shaun the Sheep inspired display too.
Forget Father Christmas, super-dad Ricky Prior was out in Newcastle to complete his shopping for his little girl's creative present.
The 34-year-old has built her a home arcade for the big day, complete with real machines and a pool table.
Although most things were bought online, he headed to city to buy the "last minute-touches" including a duck shooting gallery and an electronic basketball set.
"I'm off home to wrap things up - I can't wait to see her face when she sees what we've created" he added.
35-year-old nurse Rachel Carr, from Northumberland, was waiting on the bustling street for her partner and son.
She said: "I've got all my shopping done, but I've got a funny feeling those two are on a last minute dash for my gifts at the moment.
“I’m really grateful we get to see our extended family this year, because it wasn't possible in 2020.
"But it’s scary that people still aren’t vaccinated, when there's been so may opportunities for uptake. It’s our way out of this situation!”
20-year-old Ray Frende only started his shopping this morning, swiftly securing gifts for his mum, dad and girlfriend.
"I'm off to get the paper now" he said. "I'ts going to be busy afternoon of wrapping."
For other last minute shoppers, Eldon Square is open from 9am until 5pm today.
The Metrocentre is open from 9am until 5pm.
For the latest local breaking news direct to your inbox as it happens, go here to sign up to our free newsletter
