2025

Christmas Lights

North East Events
Here’s a roundup of upcoming Christmas light switch-on events across the North East of England — perfect for planning your festive outings.
Newcastle City Centre

Celebrate the magic of Christmas in Newcastle and kick-start the festive season with the city’s brightest event!
Thu 6 Nov 2025 06:00 pm - Thu 6 Nov 2025 07:00 pm

Tickets: £0.00 (Free - No ticket required)
Address: Grey Street, Newcastle
Kick off the festive season in the heart of Newcastle at the city’s annual Christmas Lights Switch-On!

What to Expect:
  • Live Entertainment: From 6pm there will be live music, festive games, and holiday cheer for the whole family.
  • Special Guests: Get into the Christmas spirit with Hits Radio and the region’s favourite duo Steve and Karen, panto stars, festive surprises, and maybe even a visit from Santa himself!
  • The Big Switch-On: The magical moment will take place at 7:00 PM, illuminating the city’s streets in dazzling Christmas lights.
Sunderland Keel Square
Sunderland - Keel Square - November 13

Join us in Keel Square for the Grand Christmas Lights Switch-On! Expect festive cheer, twinkling lights, and a festive start to the season.

Get ready to kick off the festive season in Sunderland with the Christmas Lights Switch-On at Keel Square on Thursday 13 November. This much-loved event will bring the city centre to life with sparkling lights, seasonal entertainment, and plenty of festive cheer.

Expect live music, special guests, and a joyful countdown to the big switch-on at 7pm all hosted in partnership with Nation Radio, our Official Media Partner.
Gateshead Trinity Square
Gateshead Trinity Square Christmas Light Switch On – 20th November 2025
There’s no place like Trinity Square this Christmas, so join us on Thursday, November 20 from 4–6pm for our Christmas Lights Switch-On, the most magical night of the year here in the heart of Gateshead
South Shields Market Square

Join us outside The Word in South Shields as we switch on the South Shields festive lights.
Thursday 20November2025
Start Time18:00- 19:30

Join us outside The Word for the dazzling Christmas Lights Switch-On, where the Mayor will lead the countdown to a magical moment.

Expect an evening full of cheer, with live singers and walkabout entertainers. Whether you're singing along or soaking in the glow, it's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit with family and friends. Featuring artists from The NEXT Big Thing.

Find out more about Christmas in South Tyneside at www.southtyneside.gov.uk/christmas
Dalton Park
Dalton Park - November 8

Dalton Park will welcome in the festive season on Saturday, November 8, from 4.30pm, for its official Christmas launch. Alfie Joey will host an enchanting evening of free family fun, including roaming entertainers, fireworks, and competitions.

The variety of entertainment includes a visit from the Grinch, the Nutcracker brass band, Christmas clown stilt walkers and comical elves. The Santa experience will open from 4.30pm, welcoming little ones to the magical grotto to meet Father Christmas and share their Christmas wishes.

At 6.30pm, footballer Steph Houghton will start the countdown to the switch-on of the stunning new Christmas lights, followed by a spectacular firework display. The stores stay open until 8.30pm, and cafes and restaurants will also be open late.
Durham
Durham

The main Durham city Christmas lights switch-on, named "Durham Christmas Sparkle," is scheduled for Sunday, November 30th, 2025, at 5:00 PM in Durham Market Place. The event will feature live music, entertainment, and a "Local Hero" will be selected to switch on the lights. 
Morpeth
Morpeth - November 15

The Morpeth Christmas Light Switch-On is back and better than ever in Market Square, with the magical event taking place on Saturday, November 15.

The event will be full of festive cheer with school carol services, live music, street food, and fairground rides. It starts at 12pm, with the window reveal of Rutherford & Co department store at 3pm, and the light switch-on at 5pm.
Spanish City
Whitley Bay - Spanish City - November 16

The Spanish City Tree Lighting event will ring in the most wonderful time of the year in Whitley Bay, with the 30 foot tree bringing with it a programme of festive events.

Every corner of Spanish City will come alive with festive cheer, and whether you’re there with family, friends or colleagues, the team promises to provide an unforgettable experience.
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