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Your Guide to Christmas Events in North East England

In just over two weeks the big day will be upon us, so we've picked some of our festive favourites and the best ways to celebrate Christmas 2019 around the region.

Newcastle

This year, the Newcastle Christmas Markets are bigger than ever before – meaning there is an abundance of food and drink for visitors to sample. From bubble waffles and doughnuts to Yorkshire pudding wraps, your taste buds are guaranteed to be left tingling with satisfaction at the sprawling market. After over-indulging, settle in for the evening in a private log cabin at the Apres Ski Bar – where you can sip a mulled wine amidst the Christmassy surroundings. Or, you could head to the Theatre Royal where you will find yourself doubled over in hysterics at this year’s festive pantomime – Beauty and the Beast.

Gateshead

Soak up the festive feels as you visit the super-cosy Alpine Lodge, located at By The River Brew Co on the South bank of the River Tyne. With a variety of street food and alcohol on offer, this makes the perfect place to have a Christmas celebration against the lit-up backdrop of the iconic Quayside.

Northumberland

Step out of the cold into the warmth of the crackling fire as you discover the Victorian splendour of Cragside House at Christmas. Watch on as the cooks bake up traditional festive recipes or even try your hand at a wreath-making workshop. Or, you can immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere as The Alnwick Garden transforms into a light spectacular for its Winter Light Trail 2019.

North Tyneside

Nothing says Christmas more than a proper wholesome Turkey dinner – so what could be better than eating with the big man himself! Take in the picturesque settings of the Spanish City dome whilst you tuck in to your Christmas dinner in the company of Santa Clause. You can tell him all of your Christmas wishes, but make sure you’re on your best behaviour - or you’ll be put on the naughty list!

South Tyneside

For a festive evening with a difference, head down to Ocean Road in South Shields for the Camel Parade – where scores of carnival entertainers, animals and musicians line the streets to celebrate the Christmas season. Then, once all of the camels have left the seafront, a sensational firework display will illuminate the skies above South Tyneside.

Sunderland

Get creative this Christmas at the National Glass Centre in Sunderland – where you can produce your own baubles, Christmas lanterns and stained glass decorations, as well as much more. Art enthusiasts, or have-a-go visitors, will be able to spend time learning and designing some special decorative creations – and you will have the perfect memento to take home as well.

Durham

Become overwhelmed with a sense of emotion as you listen to the angelic voices of the Durham Cathedral Choir serenading the UNESCO World Heritage Site with pitch-perfect carols. The acoustics of the building, paired with the raw talent of the singers makes for a truly unforgettable experience. You could also decide to visit Santa Clause in the Grand Hall of Raby Castle, where he tells a number of seasonal stories whilst you warm by the fireside. Then, take a walk through the deer-populated grounds of the castle to top off the perfect festive trip.

Teesside

For an off-the-grid experience, ready your sea-legs and prepare to set sail on the River Tees on the region’s famous Santa Cruise. Here, you can drift along on the Teesside Princess and enjoy the party atmosphere onboard. Kids can visit Father Christmas and will also receive a gift from the man himself.