Sunderland Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Sunderland and surrounding areas
Sunderland kicks off the Christmas season with city-centre highlights like the Sleeping Beauty Panto at Sunderland Empire and The Seventeen Nineteen Christmas Fayre near the seafront and Market Square. The city offers Christmas markets, ice skating, winter festivals and a range of family-friendly activities under atmospheric Christmas lights. From seasonal concerts to market treats and waterfront walks, Sunderland provides many things to do for visitors and locals during the holiday season.
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Christmas Markets
22 eventsMagical Christmas Village with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and festive cinema.
Christmas Parties
21 eventsNew Year's Eve Glitz & Glam Ball with five-course dinner and entertainment.
Christmas Shows
14 eventsSparkling Sleeping Beauty pantomime with drag artist Miss Rory.
Christmas Lights
12 eventsIconic 30-foot Christmas tree light switch-on ceremony.
Other Christmas Activities
31 eventsInteractive story trail with card-making activity
Editor's Picks (6)
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Newcastle's Christmas Village at Old Eldon Square
(Newcastle)
Magical Christmas Village with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and festive cinema.
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Spanish City New Year's Eve Glitz & Glam Ball
(Whitley Bay)
New Year's Eve Glitz & Glam Ball with five-course dinner and entertainment.
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Sleeping Beauty Panto at Sunderland Empire
Sparkling Sleeping Beauty pantomime with drag artist Miss Rory.
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Bear's Favourite Story: Sid's Christmas Disaster
Interactive story trail with card-making activity
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Forest of Light at Beamish Hall Hotel
(Beamish)
Enchanted woodland illuminated with music and interactive props.
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Beamish Hall Christmas Fair
(Beamish)
Historic manor house Christmas market with local artisans.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Sunderland Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas event in Sunderland is the Grand Christmas Lights Switch-On held in Keel Square, which officially kicks off the festive season with lights, music, and community celebrations.
Sunderland’s holiday traditions include community-focused light displays and festive markets that highlight local artisans and vendors, fostering a strong sense of neighborhood spirit during the season.
Beloved neighborhood favorites near Sunderland are known for their charming holiday lights and walking trails, offering cozy and festive environments away from the city center’s main displays.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found throughout Sunderland’s community centers and public squares, with artisan markets and craft fairs showcasing local talent especially during November and December.
Free or budget-friendly activities include visiting public light displays in Keel Square and neighborhood streets, exploring local markets with free entry, and enjoying seasonal events hosted by community groups.
Families with kids can enjoy festive walking trails, craft fairs with hands-on activities, and seasonal markets offering food and entertainment suitable for children throughout Sunderland during the holidays.