Newcastle is set to paint the town "Pink" in preparation for the global pop sensation's sold-out concert in the city next week.
Sporting a giant disco ball and bright pink dance floor, Wheeler Place has become the hub for a Pink Party Trail under an initiative being delivered by the Newcastle Tourism Industry Group (NTIG) with funding support from City of Newcastle's City Centre and Darby Street Special Business Rate (SBR) program.
Pink will hit the stage at McDonald Jones Stadium on 13 February as part of her Summer Carnival world tour, becoming the latest international performer to bring superstar power to Newcastle as a result of CN's Major Events Partnership with Venues NSW.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said that the phenomenal ticket sales prove that music lovers are hungry for more live performances of this calibre in Newcastle.
"After the success of Elton John and Paul McCartney's shows, Pink's concert is another major boost for our city, injecting a projected $9 million dollars into the local economy through hotel stays, retail spending and dining out," Cr Nelmes said.
"Large events are not just a win for live music fans but have a transformative impact across the city. City of Newcastle is regularly approached about hosting potential major events, and we look forward to securing more for our community that act as a key tourism driver for the region.
"With such anticipation ahead of next week's sold-out concert, it is only fitting that Newcastle gets the party started a week early with the Pink Party Trail
"Many local businesses are involved, and visitors have the chance to enjoy a range of Pink-themed offerings like hitting the dance floor for an open-air disco in Wheeler Place."
Newcastle began celebrating the star's arrival earlier this week when the iconic City Hall clock face and McDonald Jones Stadium were turned pink in her honour.
The Pink Party Trail will start on Friday 9 February and run across four nights in the lead up to the concert.
Chair of NTIG Michael Stamboulidis said that businesses are ready to welcome Pink fans to Newcastle's bustling city centre with themed dining and entertainment specials and the opportunity to enter and win VIP tickets to the sold-out concert.
"Venues within Newcastle's CBD will come to life with Pink activations. Think Pink inspired cocktails and food, pink lighting, a giant disco ball in Wheeler Place and plenty of fun," Mr Stamboulidis said.
"Pink's concert cements the movement to host large scale international and local events. The economic benefit to the wider community is a true indicator of this."
Known for her energetic on-stage performances and hits such as So What, Raise Your Glass and Trustfall the multiple Grammy award-winner needs no introduction in Newcastle.
In 2009 Pink visited as part of her Funhouse tour and sold out two nights at the Entertainment Centre. Fifteen years later Pink's popularity has only increased, with her McDonald Jones Stadium show set to break a new attendance record.
Kerrie Mather, CEO of Venues NSW, which operates McDonald Jones Stadium said she is delighted to bring yet another internationally celebrated star to the city.
"It will be fantastic to see the city of Newcastle turn pink for Pink ahead of her sold-out show at McDonald Jones Stadium," Ms Mather said.
"Following highly successful concerts and other events at McDonald Jones Stadium recently, it's clear Newcastle has well and truly been cemented as a major event destination.
"We can't wait to welcome Pink and her fans to McDonald Jones Stadium for what promises to be a special night."
