Christmas events in Sunderland 2020: best festive activities for kids near me - from breakfast with Elf to light displays and craft workshops

As Christmas draws closer and streets are decorated in festive lights, our thoughts turn to Christmas markets, Santa’s Grottos and other fun festive activities we can enjoy throughout the winter months.

Fortunately, Sunderland has a host of spectacular festive events to keep kids and big kids entertained.

From arts and crafts to gifts in grottos, you can still make Christmas magical this year despite coronavirus restrictions.

Here are six events still going ahead in and around Sunderland this festive season.

Design Your own Bauble - National Glass Theatre

Sunderland Culture Limited C/O, National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland SR6 0GL

Despite being unable to offer their previous event - Blow your own Bauble - The National Glass Theatre have offered a replacement event with coronavirus guidelines met.

The event can host up to eight participants while maintaining a 2 metre distance, therefore the venue asks that you do not book additional tickets for anyone out with your own household.

The event takes place on various days and times throughout December and tickets cost £24 per person.

9 Dec, 11 Dec, 12 Dec, 13 Dec, 16 Dec, 18 Dec, 19 Dec, 20 Dec, 23 Dec,Tickets £24, https://sunderlandculture.org.uk/events/design-your-own-christmas-bauble/

Bauble Decorating for kids

The Play Café Sunderland, 9-10 Station Rd, Sunderland SR6 9AA

On December 3 and 4, The Play Cafe is hosting a ‘cup, cake and play’ bauble making experience - take along your little one and have their prints decorate a bauble.

Older kids will have the opportunity to decorate their own baubles.

Tickets include two baubles and all the equipment needed to decorate them.

3-4 Dec, tickets £6, https://www.facebook.com/theplaycafesunderland/

My First Christmas Sensory Session

The Play,Sunderland, 9-10 Station Rd, Sunderland SR6 9AA

If you are looking for a fun and interactive way to remember your baby’s first Christmas, the Play Cafe has just the event.

The cafe will host a pre-walkers sensory experience whereby your child will explore all things Christmassy and you will receive a festive keepsake.

Due to COVID restrictions, numbers are limited therefore booking and prepayment is required.

3 Dec, babies £5, https://www.facebook.com/theplaycafesunderland/

Christmas Card Workshop

The Play, Sunderland, 9-10 Station Rd, Sunderland SR6 9AA

For kids who like to get arty, this Christmas card workshop has everything to keep them busy - with paint, googly eyes, glitter and stickers.

Children will have the chance to decorate three cards to take home - the perfect personalised gift to send someone you might not get to visit this tear.

Due to COVID restrictions, numbers are limited therefore booking and prepayment is required.

14 Dec, 17 Dec, tickets £6, https://www.facebook.com/theplaycafesunderland/

Meet Elf at the Terrace

The Terrace, Sunderland SR1 3PZ

Treat the kids to a magical breakfast while dining with Elf (not on his shelf).

Children will receive a continental style breakfast and gift, as well as the chance to get a picture with Elf while adults can enjoy a hot chocolate and festive snacks.

The event can only be paid by cash, booking can be made through Facebook messaging the Terrace’s social media page.

13 Dec, 20 Dec, Child £12.50/adults £6.50, https://m.facebook.com/theterracesun/

Sunderland Illuminations

Seaburn, Sunderland SR6

Despite the lack of events to go along with the illuminations, Roker Terrace and Whitburn Road will still be lit up this year.

If you are looking for the festive feels, take a walk along Seaburn waterfront and enjoy the stunning display anytime until January 3, 2021.