Towns and villages across County Durham are being transformed into festive wonderlands this month – including Newton Aycliffe.
Durham County Council is supporting a series of Winter Wonderland events to help create vibrant communities and bring residents together ahead of the festive season.
Following on from Christmas light switch-on events in Newton Aycliffe, Barnard Castle, Spennymoor and Chester-le-Street, and a winter light parade in Crook last weekend, the Christmas cheer will spread to Durham City, Consett and Aycliffe from Friday.
The projects have received significant support from the government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, and will bring a mix of music, entertainment and fun for all the family, cementing County Durham’s reputation as ‘the culture county’.
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “We are delighted to spread some Christmas cheer across our communities.
“The events offer families, friends and neighbours the perfect opportunity to come together and celebrate the festive season.
“We want everyone to be able to experience the magic of Christmas here in County Durham, at no cost.
“And, with so many people feeling the pinch with the continued increased cost of living, it’s important to work together with our partners to light up our towns and villages and bring a bit of joy in the midst of winter.”
This weekend’s events get underway on Friday with the return of the Durham Christmas Festival, in partnership with Durham Markets, Durham University, City of Durham Parish Council and Durham Cathedral.
The city will be full of Christmas cheer as the festive market offers shoppers an array of unique and beautiful gift ideas alongside a seasonal food and drink offering. Families can also look forward to a Children’s Lantern Parade and Living Snow Globe on Saturday.
Meanwhile, in Newton Aycliffe town centre, a fantastic Santa’s grotto has been created thanks to hundreds of hours of volunteer time.
The ‘Santa’s in Town’ experience by All Disabilities Matter, will use footsteps to guide visitors through the project, which includes a hidden elves challenge, snow scene, immersive dance experience and, of course, a Santa’s grotto, where every child will receive a present.
Taking place from 10am to 3pm this Saturday and 14 December, the town centre will also welcome entertainment from the likes of Circurama; Bell & Bullock’s joy-riding reindeer; festive stilt walkers; and drumming elves, to keep shoppers entertained and bring festive cheer.
And, on 14 December, residents and visitors to Spennymoor can enjoy a Christmas market on the High Street from 12pm until 6pm. Packed full of market stalls, street food, live music and a giant snow globe, the event will also feature entertainment for the family.