Durham Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Durham and surrounding areas

How we verify →
Christmas Markets (24 events) → Christmas Parties (21 events) → Christmas Shows (14 events) → Christmas Lights (11 events) → Christmas Activities (30 events) →

Durham comes alive for the Christmas season with Christmas lights twinkling around Durham Cathedral and the riverside, offering a warm mix of holiday activities and seasonal charm. Enjoy The Snowman  Film with Live Orchestra, Durham Christmas Festival and St Cuthbert's Hospice Christmas Fair for classic festive events by the cathedral and Market Place. Wander the castle precincts, join winter festivals, explore Christmas markets and discover family things to do amid historic streets and riverside views.

Find the best Durham Christmas happenings this year!

Durham Christmas Events

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Christmas Markets

24 events
Newcastle's Christmas Village at Old Eldon Square

Magical Christmas Village with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and festive cinema.

Durham Christmas Markets →

Christmas Parties

21 events
Spanish City New Year's Eve Glitz & Glam Ball • Dec 31

New Year's Eve Glitz & Glam Ball with five-course dinner and entertainment.

Durham Christmas Parties →

Christmas Shows

14 events
The Snowman – Film with Live Orchestra • Dec 6

The Snowman film with live orchestra and Peter and the Wolf.

Durham Christmas Shows →

Christmas Lights

11 events
Forest of Light at Beamish Hall Hotel • Nov 22 – Jan 4, 2026

Enchanted woodland illuminated with music and interactive props.

Durham Christmas Lights →

Christmas Activities

30 events
Neapolitan Nativity - The Auckland Project • Nov 21 – Dec 31

Monumental 18th-century Neapolitan Nativity scene

Durham Christmas Activities →

Editor's Picks (6)

  1. Newcastle's Christmas Village at Old Eldon Square (Newcastle)
    Magical Christmas Village with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and festive cinema.
  2. Spanish City New Year's Eve Glitz & Glam Ball (Whitley Bay)
    New Year's Eve Glitz & Glam Ball with five-course dinner and entertainment.
  3. The Snowman – Film with Live Orchestra
    The Snowman film with live orchestra and Peter and the Wolf.
  4. Forest of Light at Beamish Hall Hotel (Beamish)
    Enchanted woodland illuminated with music and interactive props.
  5. Beamish Hall Christmas Fair (Beamish)
    Historic manor house Christmas market with local artisans.
  6. Dakwala Bombay Canteen Christmas Feast (Newcastle upon Tyne)
    Modern Indian cuisine with neo-Indian cocktails

Events Happening Soon (6)

Raby Castle Christmas Market Fri, Nov 28 View →
A Fairy Tale Christmas at Ormesby Hall Fri, Nov 28 View →
Seaham Christmas Event Fri, Nov 28 View →
North Pole Express 2025 Sat, Nov 29 View →
The Inn Collection Group Christmas 2025 Mon, Dec 1 View →
Durham Christmas Festival Fri, Dec 5 View →

Durham Christmas Events Map

See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.

View Durham Christmas Events Map →
Durham Christmas events map

Also Near Durham

Chesterlestreet (5.8 miles) → Houghtonlespring (6.5 miles) → Stanley (7.9 miles) → Bishop Auckland (8.6 miles) → Washington (8.9 miles) → Peterlee (10.2 miles) →

Durham Christmas FAQ

What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Durham?

The biggest annual Christmas events include the FestiBull of Lights at Durham Bulls Athletic Park and the Durham Christmas Festival held in early December downtown. Both offer extensive holiday lights, markets, and family activities.

What holiday traditions are unique to Durham?

Durham’s holiday traditions include the immersive FestiBull of Lights experience and the community-focused Durham Christmas Festival with its artisan markets and children’s lantern parade, reflecting the city’s vibrant local culture.

Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Durham?

Beloved neighborhood displays near Durham are popular for their festive decorations and welcoming atmosphere. While specific neighborhood names vary, many local communities participate enthusiastically in holiday light traditions.

Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Durham?

Downtown Durham hosts the Durham Christmas Festival, a key spot for Christmas markets and local artisans. Additionally, various neighborhood markets and craft fairs near Durham showcase local makers throughout the season.

What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Durham?

Exploring neighborhood light displays and attending free market events like some vendor fairs at the Durham Christmas Festival are great budget-friendly options. Many parks and public spaces also offer free holiday-themed activities.

What are good picks for families with kids in Durham?

Families will enjoy FestiBull of Lights with its Santa visits, holiday crafts, and interactive activities, as well as the family-friendly markets and performances during the Durham Christmas Festival downtown.

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