Here's why a giant Ice Queen sculpture and Tree of Life have appeared in Sunderland

Starting from this weekend, Saturday, November 22, until January 3, visitors to Keel Square will be able to enjoy a festive journey through frosted fir trees, circular mirrored archways and a giant Ice Queen sculpture.

As part of the winter wonderland, the Expo Sunderland Pavilion houses a festive window, featuring sparkling, snowy fir trees and a fairytale carriage ready to whisk dancers off to a winter ball.

Just across the road from Keel Square, there's a chance to turn into a frosty elf at Keel Edge's interactive totems which were installed in the run up to the opening match of the Women's Rugby World Cup in August.

Or, head for the High Street West fairground with its rides and warming winter food, including Yorkshire pudding wraps, crumble and Bratwurst, and the chance to climb aboard a 2m sleigh pulled by reindeers for a family photo opportunity.

From there you can head up High Street West back to Keel Square, taking in the Tree of Life sculpture along the way.

To mark the opening on Saturday, November 22, there will be a host of fun events from 11am to 1pm:

❄️ Meet ice royalty as the Ice Queen and Ice King roam around the palace

🧝🏻 ‘Elf Yourself’ and become one of Father Christmas’ elves at the interactive Pixel Plaza

🎨 Christmas face painting

📸 Snap a selfie in front of our fantastical festive window or inside Santa’s sleigh

🎡 Funfair rides for all the family

🎄 Plenty of hearty seasonal food and family fun

Councillor Beth Jones Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Tourism, at Sunderland City Council, said: "Following last week's hugely popular Christmas Lights switch-on, this is just the latest attraction in our winter programme which is all about welcoming residents and visitors into our city centre to enjoy the festive season.

"Whether it's enjoying some of the many attractions for families, popping in to do your Christmas shopping, taking advantage of our city centre's fantastic range of restaurants, cafes, bars and venues, or venturing over Keel Crossing to the Stables at Sheepfolds, there's something for everyone this winter.

"We've also got our fantastic free, double fireworks spectacular to look forward to this New Year’s Eve to welcome in 2026. Starting with an early evening display at 6.30pm for everyone looking for a family-friendly way to celebrate the New Year together as well as live music, children’s activities running from mid afternoon, and a fantastic community parade, followed by live DJ sets taking you all the way through to midnight.

"Then, to end the evening, we've got another fantastic firework spectacular at midnight for everyone looking to ring in 2026 in style, so its worth staying tuned for more exciting updates."