Looking for something at the start of December 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 Thursday 4th to Thursday 11th December.
Bishop Auckland Christmas Town – Thurs 4th to Sun 7th Dec
The streets of Bishop Auckland transform into a winter wonderland for four days of festive fun from Thursday 4th to Sunday 7th December. Expect a lively Christmas market with over 35 stalls, street food treats from churros to mulled wine, and cosy giant tipis serving warming drinks. There’s an outdoor ice rink, fairground rides (including a vintage-style “Lightning Skid” and Ferris wheel), Santa’s Grotto, and roaming performers. On Friday night, there’s even a giant Christmas quiz! It’s a brilliant choice if you want cheerful lights, Christmas gifts, and smile-inducing family fun. find out more and book on the Bishop Auckland Christmas Town website.
A Fairytale Christmas – Ormesby Hall – Fri 5th to Mon 22nd Dec
Step inside Ormesby Hall and you’ll find classic fairytale magic around every corner. The grand house is dressed up with sparkling lights, seasonal decor, and festive greenery that conjures scenes from stories like Snow White, Hansel & Gretel and Cinderella. On selected dates children can enjoy storytelling sessions, while outdoor winter trails through the gardens add extra enchantment. Inside the stables there are Christmas craft packs to take home, and the cafe offers seasonal food and hot drinks to warm you up. It’s a cosy, fairytale way to embrace the Christmas spirit! Normal admission applies and you can find more info on the National Trust website.
Goldilocks and the Three Bears – Darlington Hippodrome – Fri 5th to Wed 31st Dec
At the Darlington Hippodrome, this year’s pantomime is a bigger-than-ever circus-style version of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. With dazzling special effects, circus acts, riotous comedy and full on panto silliness, this “Big Top” adventure stars Strictly’s Brendon Cole turned evil Ringmaster, alongside clowns, bears and chaos. It’s slapstick, it’s silly, and it’s full of festive fun – ideal for families or anyone who enjoys a laugh and a bit of magic. The show runs throughout December and even welcomes relaxed performances for those who prefer a gentler pace. Book your tickets now on the Darlington Hippodrome website.
The Snowman with Live Orchestra – Durham Cathedral – Sat 6th Dec
For a truly atmospheric Christmas treat, watch The Snowman, the classic animated story, in the majestic setting of Durham Cathedral, accompanied by a live orchestra. The soaring strings bring iconic moments to life (think Walking in the Air), while the cathedral’s high ceilings and stained glass glow add to the magic. It’s a beautiful mix of visual charm and soulful music – perfect for a chilly December evening and for family members young or old who want a bit of seasonal wonder. Book your tickets now via Carrot Productions.
Christmas at Kirkleatham Museum – Sat 6th and Sun 7th Dec
Enjoy a beautifully traditional Georgian Christmas at Kirkleatham Museum, where the historic house is dressed with period style decorations, festive table displays and hints of 18th century charm. Across the weekend, families can meet Father Christmas, and follow indoor and outdoor festive trails. Creative visitors can make their own Georgian-inspired decorations in craft sessions, while a Christmas market fills the pavilion and grounds with handmade gifts and seasonal treats. Take a look at the Enjoy Redcar & Cleveland website for more info.
Christmas in the Victoria Tunnel – Sun 7th Dec and on Sundays in the lead up to Christmas
Head underground into the atmospheric Victoria Tunnel for a seasonal walking adventure! This year’s festive theme is A Christmas Carol, so you can expect ghostly visits from Scrooge and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. You’ll follow clues, meet Santa at the end and every child receives a little gift. The tour is suitable for children of all ages and takes place in 40 minute slots. It’s a fun mix of history, story-telling and Christmas magic, so perfect for families looking for something different. Find more info and book your spaces on the Ouseburn Trust website.
Best of Hans Zimmer and Film Favourites Illuminated – Hexham Abbey – Thurs 11th Dec
For a more grown-up or musically inclined festive outing, pop along to Hexham Abbey on 11th December for a concert, Best of Hans Zimmer & Film Favourites Illuminated. Expect sweeping cinematic music, perhaps from blockbuster film scores mixed with Christmas-friendly favourites, all performed in the abbey’s beautiful, atmospheric setting. Candlelight or soft lighting often adds to the ambience, making this a peaceful, moving way to soak up holiday vibes. Book now via Eventbrite.
The Santa Experience – Life Science Centre – on now until Tues 23rd Dec
Dive into a festive and slightly magical outing at Life Science Centre, where The Santa Experience brings together seasonal cheer, science and family fun. The experience features a cosy 360 dome show, What Santa Sees, in the planetarium, and watch Santa and his reindeer fly around the globe on Christmas Eve under shimmering stars. After, visit Santa in his house with his elf, enjoy a hot drink and a sweet treat, see entertaining festive science demos, and receive a Christmas gift for every child. The ticket also gives you full access to the rest of the science centre with live shows, hands-on exhibits, and the Play Zone. It’s an immersive mix of wonder, science and seasonal magic, perfect for children nd families. Book your tickets now via the Life Science Centre website.
Cinderella – Tyne Theatre & Opera House – on now until Sun 4th Jan
Classic panto alert! At the charming Tyne Theatre & Opera House, the story of Cinderella runs through to early January, and it’s great if you’re after traditional pantomime humour, songs, laughs and festive sparkle. Expect glittery costumes, audience participation, perhaps a fairy godmother or two, and all the fun that comes with a good old-fashioned Christmas panto. A cosy, theatrical way to soak up the season between December and the New Year. Book now on the Tyne Theatre & Opera House website.
Make sure you check back next week for more amazing events!
