A guide to Christmas events in the North East
Written by Sophie Airson on 7th November 2025
Step into Christmas with lots of festive fun across the Northeast.
South Tyneside
Kick off the merry season with three evenings of the annual Christmas lights switch-on, in South Shields, Jarrow and Hebburn. Each switch-on will not only include the dazzling lights but for the first time, it will feature live entertainment, music, and visits from festive characters.
Cllr Judith Taylor, Lead Member for Culture, Leisure and the Visitor Economy, said: “The festive season is such a wonderful time of year for families and friends to get together, celebrate and have fun and we want to bring the magic of Christmas to South Tyneside.
“We have a fantastic line up of events taking place this year… for all ages to enjoy as well as some fabulous lighting displays to help spread festive cheers throughout our communities.”
South Shields – Thursday 20 November 6:00-7:30pm.
Jarrow – Friday 21 November 4:00-5:00pm.
Hebburn – Monday 24 November 4:00-5:00pm.
Sunderland
Not only are Sunderland having a Christmas light switch-on, but they also have other fun activities perfect for festive family days out.
Light switch-on is at Keel Square on November 13, starting at 5:30pm.
Grace House Hotel are bringing back their annual Christmas fair, full of stall, live entertainment, raffles and little ones also have an opportunity to meet Santa. This event is about more than just spreading festive joy, it is also about raising funds for disabled children, young people and their families across the North East.
The fair is £1 entry for adults and under 16s go free.
December 7, 11:00am – 3:00pm
Don’t worry if you miss out on meeting Santa at the fair, there are plenty of other opportunities throughout December at The Ballroom, Roker Hotel, where you are able meet and have lunch with the likes of Santa, the Grinch and friends.
Lunch with Santa – December 14, 21. 11:30am – 3:00pm.
Lunch with the Grinch – December 23. 11:30am – 3:00pm.
Child price: £15.95
Adult price: £17.95
Newcastle
Don’t panic if you missed the light-switch on in Newcastle a few days ago, because the fun doesn’t end there. The annual Christmas Market is back, and it’s bigger than last year, the market has been given an extension onto Nelson Street, so it is able to fit more exciting stalls than before. As part of the market, the Christmas Village will be making a return this year, along with the Rockin’ Reindeer stage for hosting family shows, festive stories, and many chances to meet Santas and his elves. In addition to what is returning from previous years are some new attractions: Marshmallow Land, where you can toast marshmallows on an open fire, and Festive Flix, with all the best of Christmas.
Nick Chadford, Marketing Manager Evnt Inspirations said: “Together, we’ve created a space where families, friends, and visitors can enjoy everything from Rockin’ Reindeer stage shows and Santa Stories to Mrs Claus’ Bakery, fairground rides, street food, and cosy winter bars. Our aim is to bring the magic of Christmas right into the heart of the city with something fun and memorable for everyone.”
Christmas Market – November 15- December 23, 10:00am – 8:00pm (Mon-Sat), 10:00am – 5:00pm (Sun).
Gateshead
The other side of the river is getting ready to, Gateshead Christmas Market will be back at Gateshead Stadium, with around 200 stalls, both indoor and outdoor, perfect for some gift buying, or even just trying the season food and drink.
November 9, 12:00pm – 5:00pm.
North Tyneside
Fancy a little late-night X-mas shopping?
Get yourself to Tynemouth for their annual late-night Christmas shopping event, with many special offers across shops in the village, on November 20.
There is also the North Shields Christmas market, where you can listen to live entertainment while you browse the stalls for gifts, food and drink.
December 6, 10:00am – 5:00pm
December 7, 10:00am – 4:00pm.
