Fenwick Newcastle's Christmas Window 2016 Unveiled: The Magic of Beatrix Potter

Thousands of people gathered outside Fenwick Newcastle tonight to see the highly-anticipated Christmas window theme revealed as it gloriously lit up Northumberland Street under a blanket of snow… Unveiled by children from The Great North Children’s Hospital, this year’s concept is inspired by the 150th anniversary of beloved children’s author Beatrix Potter. Marked as the official beginning of Christmas festivities in the North East, this annual display at the flagship Fenwick Newcastle store is one of the largest Christmas showcases in Europe. Chairman Mark Fenwick said, “for the 45th anniversary of our Christmas Windows, we are delighted to be able to showcase Beatrix Potter’s fabled characters." Potter's well-loved characters are depicted through the wonderfully whimsical display of her most popular stories – from the iconic Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck and Jeremy Fisher to the Tailor of Gloucester in the final window.

With over 2300 hours spent building the elaborate designs in a German production house, it took five skilled window dressers and carpenters to work behind-the-scenes to install the final intricate designs you see today. For those who couldn't be with us on the night, take a look at the unveiling below.

The celebrations continued after the unveiling with the appearance of a pair of cheeky squirrels and Peter Rabbit himself who added to the festive street party atmosphere. Here are just some of our favourite reactions from you on the night…

Share your thoughts on this year's _The Magic of Beatrix Potter_ theme along with your favourite festive snaps using the hashtag #FenwickWindow! And be sure to stay in the loop of all-things-Christmas here at Fenwick through our online Christmas hub where we'll be posting about in-store activity, plus Daily Muse articles to help you navigate through Santa's shopping lists, what to wear to your office Christmas party and everything in between.