Looking for something to do in the middle of November 2025 in the North East? I’ve got you covered with this list. As part of my feature on BBC Tees and Newcastle, I select my top picks of things happening across the North East, and here’s what I’ve chosen for Friday 14th to Friday 21st November.
Blyth Celebrates: Earth, Wind and Fire Garden – Ridley Park – Fri 14th and Sat 15th Nov
Blyth is set to shine this November with the Earth, Wind and Fire Garden lighting up Ridley Park on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th November. Expect dazzling displays celebrating the natural elements, with glowing installations, live performances, and a touch of magic in the crisp autumn air. Families, friends, and anyone who loves a bit of sparkle can wander through beautifully illuminated gardens while enjoying food, music, and community spirit. It’s the perfect excuse to wrap up warm, take a stroll, and let Blyth’s creativity brighten your November nights! This is free to enjoy, so find out more about the opening times on the Great Northumberland Events website and drop in!
Steampunk Weekend – Hopetown Darlington – Sat 15th and Sun 16th Nov
Get ready to travel through time in Victorian style! The Steampunk Weekend at Hopetown, Darlington, on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th November, is a glorious celebration of invention, imagination, and impeccable fashion. Expect brass goggles, clockwork contraptions and plenty of creativity. With live entertainment, themed market stalls and all sorts of retro-futuristic fun, it’s the perfect weekend for anyone who enjoys a bit of vintage adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned Steampunker or just curious, it’s time to don your waistcoat, polish your monocle, and join in the spectacle! This is free to enjoy, but it’s recommended that you book your free site entry via the Hopetown website to ensure entry.
Annual Christmas shopping event – Sunderland Stadium of Light – Sun 16th Nov
Get your festive shopping off to a flying start at the Annual Christmas Shopping Event at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light on Sunday 16th November. Hundreds of stalls will be packed with unique gifts, handmade crafts, tasty treats, and festive goodies galore. It’s the ideal spot to tick off your Christmas list early to avoid the last minute panic! Expect a merry atmosphere, a few seasonal surprises, and maybe even a visit from the man in red himself. So grab a mince pie, pop on your Christmas jumper, and get ready to shop till you sparkle! This is free entry, so need to book. Just visit between 10am to 5pm!
Top Hat – Sunderland Empire – Tues 18th to Sat 22nd Nov
Tap your troubles away this November with Top Hat, dancing on to the Sunderland Empire stage from Tuesday 18th to Saturday 22nd November. Packed with glitz, glamour, and irresistible Irving Berlin tunes, this dazzling musical will sweep you off your feet faster than a Fred Astaire quickstep. Expect stunning choreography, witty charm, and toe-tapping classics like Cheek to Cheek and Let’s Face the Music and Dance. Whether you’re a musical theatre lover or just fancy a sparkling night out, Top Hat promises old Hollywood magic with a modern shine! Book your tickets now on the Sunderland Empire website.
Winter Lights 2025 – The Alnwick Garden – from Thurs 20th Nov to 4th Jan
From Thursday 20th November right through to 4th January, The Alnwick Garden will once again glow with wonder for Winter Lights 2025. Wander through twinkling tunnels, shimmering sculptures, and breathtaking light displays that transform the gardens into a festive dreamscape. Perfect for families, couples, and anyone chasing that winter sparkle, it’s a treat for all the senses, complete with warm drinks, festive treats, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. Wrap up cosy, bring your camera, and prepare to be dazzled by this magical winter spectacle that brightens even the chilliest nights. Book your tickets now on the Alnwick Garden website.
Wintertide Festival – Hartlepool – Fri 21st to Sun 23rd Nov
The coast comes alive this Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd November for Hartlepool’s Wintertide Festival! Set against the backdrop of the Headland, this creative celebration of light, art, and community promises a weekend full of live performances, lantern parades, and a truly festive buzz. Expect pop-up installations, street theatre, music, and food aplenty as the seaside sparkles in winter style. Whether you’re local or just looking for something a little different, Wintertide is the perfect way to embrace the season… think creativity, culture, and plenty of coastal cheer! Most of this festival is free (some of the workshops are paid), so please visit the Wintertide Festival website to check out the full programme.
AGLOW – Auckland Palace & Gardens – from Fri 21st Nov to 31st Dec
Starting Friday 21st November and running right through to New Year’s Eve, AGLOW returns to Auckland Palace & Gardens for another season of festive enchantment. Wander through a breathtaking trail of light installations that illuminate the historic grounds in a spectacular display of colour and creativity. Perfect for families, friends, or a romantic evening out, AGLOW offers everything from glowing tunnels to sparkling trees to get lost beneath. With music, seasonal treats, and plenty of “wow” moments, it’s an unmissable highlight of the North East’s winter calendar! Book your tickets via the Auckland Project website.
Stick Man Winter Trail – Kielder Forest and Hamsterley Forest – on now and throughout Dec
If you go down to the woods today, you’re in for a twig-tastic surprise! The Stick Man Winter Trail is now open at Kielder Forest and Hamsterley Forest, running all through November and December. Based on Julia Donaldson’s beloved story, this family-friendly trail combines adventure, nature, and storytelling as you follow Stick Man’s journey through the trees. Kids will love spotting clues, collecting rubbings, and exploring the great outdoors, while grown ups can enjoy the fresh air and festive vibes. It’s the perfect way to embrace winter together with muddy boots, rosy cheeks, and all! Check out the Forestry England website for more details.
Make sure you check back next week for more amazing events!
