From the Keel Square ice rink to Cinderella at Empire Theatre, we’ve rounded up 13 of the best events.
13. Winter Wonderland, Rainton Arena,
Rainton Arena, in Houghton, is aiming to create a magical Christmas experience, with a festival running from November 29 to December 23. Along with creating an ice rink – using real ice – the arena is also installing a magical santa’s grotto where every child will get a gift. A whole host of fairground rides, a tipi with a bar and a full music programme will also make up the event, along with an international food and drink market and craft stalls. The event will run each day from 10am and 10pm and entry is free, although costs do apply for ice skating and for Santa’s Grotto. Photo: Rainton Arena