Looking for something at the end of November or 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 27th November to Friday 5th December.
Christmas at Ushaw House – now until Fri 19 Dec
Step into the festive magic at Ushaw Historic House, where tradition, community and creativity come together in a delightful Christmas celebration. The Main House and Chapels are beautifully decorated with magnificent trees, handcrafted book-inspired installations and joyful artwork created by over 1000 local schoolchildren. In the Parlour, you’ll find a festive table set for Father Christmas, surrounded by glittering trees and floral arrangements, and the Cloisters feature creations from local groups and artists. The event runs daily throughout December from 10am to 4pm, and there are many other activities to book on to, like The Snowman with a live orchestra or Christmas carols in the Chapel. Ushaw can be visited with a day pass or an annual membership, but the other activities may need to be booked, so visit the Ushaw House website for more info.
Northern Lights – Leazes Park, Newcastle – Thurs 27th Nov to Wed 31st Dec
Leazes Park transforms into a glowing wonderland for Northern Lights, running from Thursday 27th November to Wednesday 31st December. This enchanting illuminated trail features dazzling light installations and magical soundscapes as you wander through the park after dark. Expect colourful displays, twinkling forests, and interactive features perfect for families, couples, and anyone in need of festive sparkle. Warm up with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or street food favourites at the Christmas Village. With plenty of photo spots and a cosy seasonal atmosphere, this sparkling adventure brings a touch of winter magic right to the heart of Newcastle. Book your tickets now via the Northern Lights Newcastle website.
Sleeping Beauty – Empire Consett – Fri 28th Nov to Wed 31st Dec
Prepare for laughter, magic, and a few good old-fashioned boos as Sleeping Beauty arrives at the Empire Consett from Friday 28th November to Wednesday 31st December. This lively pantomime has all the essentials… brilliant slapstick, colourful costumes, singalong numbers, and a villain with plenty of attitude. Audiences can expect a fun family show packed with local humour, audience participation, and plenty of festive sparkle. Follow the tale of Princess Aurora, the brave Prince, and the lovable comic characters determined to save the day. Charming, cheeky, and wonderfully silly, it’s the perfect seasonal treat for all ages. Book your tickets now on the Empire Consett website.
A Magical Victorian Christmas – Preston Park Museum, Stockton – weekends from Sat 29th Nov to Sun 21st Dec
Travel back in time at Preston Park Museum for A Magical Victorian Christmas, running weekends from Saturday 29th November to Sunday 21st December. The museum’s Victorian street comes alive with craft stations, costumed characters, live choirs, and letter writing to Santa. Listen to the carols, meet the Victorian Father Christmas, and join in with the 12 Days of Christmas trail. All of this is included with day admission or an annual pass (but you’ll need to book a ticket for the Father Christmas meets). Find more info on the Preston Park Museum and book your pass.
Kinky Boots – Sunderland Empire – Tues 2nd to Sat 6th Dec
Get ready for glitter, glamour, and feel-good fun as Kinky Boots struts into the Sunderland Empire from Tuesday 2nd to Saturday 6th December. This award-winning musical, inspired by a true story, follows Charlie and Lola as they create show-stopping footwear for a very fabulous clientele. Expect high-energy numbers, heart-warming moments, and more sequins than you can shake a stiletto at. With music by Cyndi Lauper and a cast bursting with charisma, it’s an uplifting night out that celebrates individuality, courage, and the joy of fabulous shoes. A perfect antidote to winter blues! Book your tickets now on the Sunderland Empire website.
Christmas Evenings at Beamish Museum – selected dates from Thurs 4th to Fri 19th Dec
Beamish Museum’s beloved Christmas Evenings return on selected dates from Thursday 4th to Friday 19th December, offering a magical trip through time. Wander the 1900s Town illuminated by festive lanterns, enjoy brass band performances, and visit cosy period shops decked with traditional decorations. Ride the trams, warm up with hearty seasonal food, and meet costumed characters bringing the past to life. Children can enjoy craft activities and maybe even spot Father Christmas himself. With roaring fires, nostalgic charm, and snow-dusted streets (if you’re lucky), Beamish provides one of the region’s most atmospheric festive nights out. You’ll need an annual pass, plus an extra Christmas Evenings tickets, so find more info on the Beamish Museum website.
Durham Christmas Festival – Fri 5th to Sun 7th Dec
Running only for one special weekend, the Durham Christmas Festival returns Friday 5th to Sunday 7th December with markets, entertainment, and festive cheer throughout the historic city. Wander the Palace Green filled with craft stalls, browse local produce in the bustling marketplace, and enjoy live music from choirs and street performers. Families can enjoy a range of activities at the Palace Green Library and the Lantern Parade brings an extra sprinkle of magic, lighting up the old streets beautifully. It’s a brilliant blend of shopping, seasonal treats, and family activities set against the stunning backdrop of Durham. Find out more on the Durham Christmas Festival website.
Beauty and the Beast – Whitley Bay Playhouse – Fri 5th Dec to Sat 3rd Jan
Join Belle, the Beast, and a host of quirky characters at the Whitley Bay Playhouse for this year’s pantomime extravaganza, Beauty and the Beast, running Friday 5th December to Saturday 3rd January. Expect hilarious comedy routines, dazzling dance numbers, and plenty of audience participation. Kids will love the slapstick antics, while adults enjoy the cheeky jokes slipped in for good measure. With colourful sets, catchy songs, and a sprinkle of panto magic, it’s a fun-filled retelling of the classic tale. Book your tickets on the Whitley Bay Playhouse website.
Newcastle Christmas Village – now until Thurs 1st Jan
Nestled in Old Eldon Square, the Newcastle Christmas Village runs now until Thursday 1st January, bringing cosy festive cheer right into the heart of the city. Enjoy sizzling bratwursts, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and sweet treats from charming alpine-style stalls. A heated tent, live music, and family entertainment, like Santa Stories and Mrs Claus’ Bakery, help keep spirits high whatever the weather. Twinkling decorations and seasonal displays make it a perfect spot for festive photos, while the relaxed, cheerful atmosphere is ideal for shoppers taking a break or friends meeting up for a winter catch up. This is free to visit but the family activities are ticketed, so take a look at the Newcastle Christmas Village website for more info.
Make sure you check back next week for more amazing events!
