The two clubs previously met in the FA Cup in 2024, while the Black Cats were a Championship side, with the Magpies winning 3-0.
Howe says he's felt the rivalry since taking charge of Newcastle and is now ready for the full experience.
"The biggest stick I ever had was doing the Great North Run. I got abused by 50% of the people there. I’ve had a few little bits from people, but nothing too much to write home about at this moment in time," he said.
"Having not been in the city for a couple of days is probably a good thing in preparation for this game!
"I was aware of it (the rivalry) before, but I think it’s very different when you’re seeing it from afar to actually living it and experiencing it yourself.
"I’d seen many derbies on TV, and you can sense there’s an intense rivalry there. That’s a great thing for the game, I love that, and I think it’s one of the things that makes football so special. But then, when you’re here, you realise it’s even more than you thought from the outside. It’ll be great to experience it in a league game."
On the spectacle, Howe also said: "I look at these games as positives. I want to experience the biggest games possible.
"You want to throw yourself into the biggest challenges possible, and I think this game will be one that we’ll always remember, hopefully for the right reasons, hopefully because someone has made the difference and created a memorable moment for our supporters.
"That’s what we’re chasing, that’s what we want. We want to do them proud and make sure we represent them in the right way."