News-Spreading Christmas cheer across County Durham

We are supporting a series of Winter Wonderland events to help create vibrant communities and bring residents together ahead of the festive season.

Celebrating the Christmas light switch-on in Spennymoor

Following on from Christmas light switch-on events in Barnard Castle, Spennymoor, Newton Aycliffe and Chester-le-Street, and a winter light parade in Crook, the Christmas cheer will spread to Consett, Newton Aycliffe and Spennymoor from Friday.

The projects have received significant support from the government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and will bring a mix of music, entertainment and fun for all the family, cementing County Durham's reputation as 'the culture county'.

'Experience the magic of Christmas'

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: "We are delighted to spread some Christmas cheer across our communities. The events offer families, friends and neighbours the perfect opportunity to come together and celebrate the festive season.

"We want everyone to be able to experience the magic of Christmas here in County Durham, at no cost. And, with so many people feeling the pinch with the continued increased cost of living, it's important to work together with our partners to light up our towns and villages and bring a bit of joy in the midst of winter."

Series of events

Residents in Consett can get into the Christmas spirit on Friday 13 December, with the arrival of Christmas in Consett.

The town's Middle Street will host live music from the Taylor Swift Experience and a local brass band, as well as entertainment from Alex Winters and the National Elf Service comedy act.

There'll also be a Christmas jumper competition for everyone to enter, an Elf Trail for children to enjoy, and the arrival of Santa himself for the Christmas tree lights switch on.

Fun for all the family

Meanwhile, in Newton Aycliffe town centre, a fantastic Santa's grotto has been created thanks to hundreds of hours of volunteer time.

The 'Santa's in Town' experience by All Disabilities Matter, will use footsteps to guide visitors through the project, which includes a hidden elves challenge, snow scene, immersive dance experience and, of course, a Santa's grotto, where every child will receive a present.

Taking place from 10am to 3pm on Saturdays 14 and 21 December, the town centre will also welcome entertainment from the likes of Circurama; Bell & Bullock's joy-riding reindeer; festive stilt walkers; and drumming elves, to keep shoppers entertained and bring festive cheer.

And, on Saturday 14 December, residents and visitors to Spennymoor can enjoy a Christmas market on the High Street from 12pm until 6pm. Packed full of market stalls, street food, live music and a giant snow globe, the event will also feature entertainment for the family.