- Christmas
- 8th Nov 2024
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Ice sculpture trails, wreath making and Christmas markets – what’s on in Darlington
Darlington is decked out to deliver a sleigh full of festive fun this winter.
From November’s Christmas lights switch on to a December brimming with wreath-making, ice sculptures and enchanting trails, there’s something for every Christmas lover.
Explore the magical Enchanted Forest Reindeer Trail at Hopetown, gaze at intricate ice carvings and don’t miss the vibrant Christmas market (Darlington’s biggest yet), perfect for finding gifts, festive food and seasonal treats.
And if you’re creative, wreath-making events are in full swing. Why not make a festive weekend of it? Darlington’s charm and cosy stays await, with easy access by rail.
FOR THE ULTIMATE FESTIVE FEELS…
Darlington Christmas Lights Switch On
Sunday 17th November from 4pm
Kick off the festive season the right way at Market Square. Join the Christmas light switch-on, hosted by Steve and Karen from Hits Radio Breakfast Show. Enjoy live music, fun and a special appearance from Santa himself. Don’t miss the grand finale – a two-minute fireworks display.
Step into Christmas at The Darlington Hippodrome
Tuesday 19th November at 7:30pm
Cost: from £18.00
Get ready to step into Christmas with the year’s most feel-good show. Sing along to festive favourites like All I Want for Christmas Is You, Jingle Bell Rock, Let it Snow and more bangers. This heartwarming family show promises festive cheer, amazing performances and an unforgettable Christmas cheer.
The Darlington Christmas Market
Friday 6th to Sunday 8th December from 5pm
Christmas is just around the corner, and this year’s market is the biggest yet. Explore over 60 festive stalls at Market Square, with bars and street food galore. Inside, check out the Stocking Filler Market with over 20 indie craft stalls. Plus, West Row and Horsemarket will be bustling with unique finds for everyone.
FOR FESTIVE FAMILY FUN…
Enchanted Forest Reindeer Trail at Hopetown
Tuesday 26th November – Tuesday 31st December from 1pm
Cost: £5 per child
It’s nearly midnight on Christmas Eve, and Santa has arrived at Hopetown Darlington on Locomotion No.1 – but his reindeer have escaped. Can you help find them? Explore the transformed Carriage Works, a magical forest filled with festive trees, woodland creatures and hidden reindeer. Take a wintery walk, follow clues and help Santa prepare for his big journey.
Santa at Hopetown
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6th and Monday 23rd December
Cost: £22.50 per child
Visit Santa in the beautiful, historic Carriage Works at Hopetown. This two-hour experience includes a magical grotto visit, festive crafts and an Enchanted Forest Reindeer Trail. Little ones can make holly crowns and gather around Padraig the Storyteller to hear ancient Christmas tales. Meet Santa, share festive wishes and receive an early Christmas gift.
Ice Sculpture Trail
From Saturday 7th December from 11am
This Christmas, explore Darlington on a tree-mendous ice sculpture trail. Grab a map and wander through town, spotting as many dazzling sculptures as you can. Get lost while gazing at these glittering creations and keep an eye out for free competitions happening throughout the event.
TO BE ENTERTAINED…
The Big Christmas Assembly at Darlington Hippodrome
Thursday 28th November from 7:30pm
Cost: from £16.00
Get ready to jingle and sing along with James B Partridge in Primary School Assembly Bangers live. This festive show takes you back to Christmases past with nostalgic tunes, festive mashups and reflections on growing up during the season. As seen on BBC, ITV and TalkTV, James brings warmth, humour and singalong cheer for an evening full of festive surprises.
Sleeping Beauty at Darlington Hippodrome
Friday 6th – Tuesday 31st December from 7pm
Cost: from £19.50
Starring Lee Mead, Su Pollard, Josh Benson, Jamie Jones, Stephanie Costi and Olivia Foster-Browne as the Enchantress, this pantomime is packed with magic, comedy and magical special effects. Join Princess Aurora as she faces a curse from her wicked Aunt Carabosse. Will true love save the day?
Christmas Party at The Majestic Theatre
Saturday 7th December from 6:30pm
Cost: from £20.00
Feeling festive? It’s never too early to plan for Christmas. Book your Christmas party with us for a stress-free celebration – perfect for work events, family gatherings or a night out with the ladies. Enjoy a welcome drink, hot and cold buffet, fun party games and dance the night away with the resident DJ.
FOR CREATIVE CHRISTMAS CRAFTS…
Christmas Candle Making Workshop at Lot 64
Saturday 14th December from 10:30am
Cost: £30 per person
This Christmas candle making workshop is perfect for beginners and if you want to learn a new skill. Discover the ins and outs of candle making, from waxes and fragrance oils to wicking and the science behind it all. You’ll create a beautiful natural plant wax container candle to take home. Enjoy a glass of alcohol-free mulled wine and a mince pie while you unleash your creative side.
Girls Get Together x Kip and Nook: Christmas Wreath Making Workshop
Sunday 1st December from 3pm
Cost: from £60.29
Join this cosy festive evening at Kip and Nook by taking part in a wreath-making workshop. Create a stunning wreath for your front door while enjoying a festive cocktail and Christmas canapés. The friendly host will guide you through the entire process and will help as needed. Your ticket includes all fresh materials for wreath making, so all you need to do is bring along yourself.
Rachael Ellis
Creative Solutions Manager
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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