You can walk through a Winter Gardens Wonderland at a new Christmas festival this weekend.

A free, family-friendly Christmas festival will take over the Winter Gardens at Sunderland Museum on Sunday 21 December, offering a day of live music, local traders and festive cheer.

Winter Gardens in Sunderland | Sunderland Echo

placeholder image — Winter Gardens in Sunderland | Sunderland Echo

Running from 2pm to 8pm, the event, which is being hosted by the Sea Change cafe, brings together some of the region’s best-loved musicians alongside independent local businesses.

The live music programme is headlined by Ian Black & The Fortunate Nudes, featuring members of Sunderland favourites Slug! and Field Music, with support from OldMan.

Entry to the festival and gigs is completely free, with an optional donation for the music element for those who wish to support the artists.

Alongside the music, visitors can enjoy mulled wine and Christmas gift sets from Vaux, plus stalls from local independents including Roker Records, WEAR (vintage clothing) and handmade gifts from The Posy Pod — making it an ideal stop for last-minute Christmas shopping.

Sarah Farrell-Forster from Sea Change said: “The Winter Gardens is such a special space, and filling it with music, independent traders and families feels like the perfect way to celebrate Christmas.

“We want to create a really high-quality Christmas event with the very best local music and local businesses, where cost wouldn’t be any barrier to someone taking part.”

The event is open to all ages, with children very welcome, and people can simply turn up on the day.

Advance tickets for the gig are also available via Eventbrite.

Event details: