This has been updated for 2024. There are a lot of different Christmas events available these days, and some can come in at over £100 for a family. It is absolutely fine to treat ourselves and family if you want something extra special and it’s affordable. But you don’t have to do this to make memories and have a nice time together 💜
Heres my guide for budget friendly options. They are all priced at £6 or less per person or equivalent of £25 or less for a family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children). And inclusive of any extra admission fees (included in costings)
Information and costs correct at time of publishing. Please check directly with the organisers/venue for any changes to info or availability. These guides are put together free of charge at no cost to the business (unless Ad stated next to it). If you would like to thank me, you can buy me a coffee here
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HERE'S THE LIST....make sure to check it twice! 😉 (..couldn’t help myself there😅)
Choose your section or just browse it all;
EVENTS THAT INCLUDE MEETING SANTA
Some other categories below may also include opportunities to see Santa, but I’ve categorised seperately as they offer other activities.
FREE Santas Grotto at Cornmill Shopping Centre, Darlington
WHEN?Every Saturday and Sunday between Saturday 30th November - Sunday 22nd December from 11am - 3pm
COST?Visits are free, but adult supervision is required
🎟️No need to book
📲Follow their page for any updates at https://www.facebook.com/cornmill.centre
FREE Santas Grotto at Cleveland Centre, Middlesbrough
WHEN?Saturdays from 30th November-21st December, 11am-3pm
COST? Free, each child will get a free goody bag
🎟️No need to book just drop in
📲 Follow their page at https://www.facebook.com/clevelandcentre.middlesbrough
FREE Open day with FREE Santas Grotto at Aycliffe & District Bus Preservation Society
INFO? Tombola, refreshments, children’s activities, Santas Grotto and a free vintage return bus ride from Aycliffe town centre.
WHEN? 30th November, 10am-3pm
COST? FREE, no need to book
📲 Follow their page for updates at https://www.facebook.com/aycliffebus
Family Christmas Party at Harrogate Hill Club, Darlington
INFO? Party games, disco and a gift (selection box) from Santa for each child.
WHEN? Sunday 22nd December
COST? £6 per child. £2 for adults and babies under 1
Childrens Christmas Party at Woollen Mill, Darlington
INFO? Music, food and party games
WHEN? 22nd December 1-3pm
COST? £5 per child
🎟️ Tickets available from the bar. Follow their social page for updates at https://www.facebook.com/woollenmill.hungryhorse
Santa and his elves festive celebration at Cockerton Club, Darlington
INFO? Join Santa & his elves for a fun packed festive celebration. Expect a disco, party dances. Party games & more....You will also get a one on one visit with Santa in his Grotto. Each paying child gets a selection box for a gift.
WHEN? 21st December, 3 time slots.
COST? £6 per person , under 1s free.
🎟️Message their page to book or pop in. https://www.facebook.com/CockertonClub
Santas Grotto at Darlington Library
INFO?Christmas trail and games in the library. Then a visit and photo opportunities with Santa and a gift. Recommended ages 0-4.
WHEN?11th and 18th December.
COST?£7.50 per child
Victorian Christmas Market and Santa Express at Tees Cottage Pumping Station, Darlington
INFO? Alongside the Victorian themed Christmas market, you can also take a train ride from broken scar station to santas workshop to visit him in his grotto.
WHEN? Saturday 23rd November
COST? Free entry to market, £7.50 per child and £1 per adult for the Santa Express train ride and santas grotto visit and gift from Santa for each paying child. Additional train rides available for those not wanting to see Santa for £2.
🎟️To book the train ride and santas grotto please email smithyteescottage.co.uk
Christmas Party at Physique Soft Play, Crèche and Party Zone, Darlington
INFO? Includes softplay, games, drinks and snacks, meet and greet with Mr and Mrs Claus and a personalised gift for each child
WHEN? Saturday 1st December, two slots 11:45-1:15 and 1:45-3:15
COST? £8.50 per child
📲Message their page to book with child’s name and age. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049256897098
Santa Paws at Cherry Hill Garden and Landscape Centre, Middlesbrough
INFO?Come along for a Santa Paws Session where we will take a special family photo or either just your dog, or the whole family in a specially decorated Christmas themed room. Following your photograph we will then set you up in a doggy pottery area where you can capture your dogs' paw print on a special keepsake bauble (you will return to collect at a later date) And some special festive doggy treats for your dog too!
WHEN? 29th November and 6th December
COST? £18.95 for the session
FREE Santas Sleigh Tour with Darlington Round Table
INFO? Santa on his sleigh will be visiting the streets of Darlington, delighting families and raising vital funds for local charities.
WHEN? 8th-21st December.
COST? FREE
ℹ️ View the full routes and timings here https://santasatnav.com
FREE Santas Grotto at All Disabilities Matter in Newton Aycliffe
INFO? Pop along between 10am-3pm to see Santa in his grotto. Located on Beveridge Way. Free gift for each child.
WHEN? 14th December and 21st December
COST? FREE
ℹ️ Follow the Newton Aycliffe Town Centre page at https://www.facebook.com/share/185HpE7j83/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
FREE Go North East Santa Bus Tour
INFO? Go North East are touring the streets with Santa across the North East fr
WHEN? 9th-20th December
COST? FREE
ℹ️ View the routes and timings here https://www.gonortheast.co.uk/santa-bus-route
PANTO’S AND SHOWS
Aladdin at Harrogate Hill Club and Institute, Darlington by Gerry Graham Touring Pantos
WHEN? 29th December
COST? £5pp
📲 Follow their page for updates at https://www.facebook.com/Harrowgate.Club.ltd
Sleeping Beauty and The Beast Panto at Middleton at George Community Centre, Darlington
INFO? Join Fairy Naturel and her merry companions as they strive to prevent the nefarious schemes of the Wicked Witch of the West, a devious potion plant-poisoner. Their mission? To rescue Belle and Beauty from their storybook fates.
WHEN? Saturday 4th January 2025, 1pm
COST? £4.50 per child, £8.50 per adult
🎟️Book via https://www.ruralarts.org/whats-on/performances/sleeping-beauty-and-the-beast-at-middleton-st-george
‘The Gift’ Festive Show at Glow Church, Newton Aycliffe
INFO?You can expect a mesmerizing performance of singing and dancing, fun and memorable characters. There will be laughter and joy for all ages with a a state-of-the-art visual and lighting display. 'The Gift' will immerse you and your family in the spirit of Christmas like never before.
WHEN? 4th December-22nd December
COST? FREE
🎟️Box office opens Tuesday 1st October for tickets at www.thegiftatglow.com
CHRISTMAS MARKETS WITH FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Christmas Magic and Sparkle, Middleton St George Community Centre
INFO? Tree light switch on, free crafts, dance performances, Christmas carols, gift stalls and more!
WHEN? 23rd November, 1pm-5pm
COST? Free Entry
🎟️No need to book
📲 Follow their social page for more info and updates at https://www.facebook.com/msgcommunitycentre
Polam Hall School Christmas Fayre, Darlington
WHEN? 23rd November, 10:30am-2pm
INFO? Raffles, gift stalls, treat stalls, and a chance to see Santa
COST? £2 entry adults, children-free
📲Follow their page for any updates at https://www.facebook.com/polamhallschool
Darlington Christmas Market, Darlington Market Square
INFO? Craft Stalls with unique handmade creations. Confectionary, sweet treats and delicious goodies. Hot food and mouthwatering delights that captures the essence of the season. Festive gifts that will make this Christmas unforgettable. Children’s activities usually offered, awaiting further info
WHEN? 6th-8th December
COST? FREE to visit
ℹ️No need to book, follow their social page for updates https://www.facebook.com/Darlingtonmarketofficia
Spennymoor Christmas Market, Spennymoor High Street
INFO? Lots of stalls with unique gifts, seasonal treats and more. Carol singers and activities for the whole family to enjoy and soak up the atmosphere
WHEN? 14th December 2024 from 12pm
COST? FREE
The Bowes Museum Winter Market, Barnard Castle
INFO? Listen to carol singers, enjoy gourmet treats and mulled wine and cider while browsing stocking fillers, unique handcrafted gifts and Christmas decorations in the magically festive atmosphere.
Your Winter Market ticket includes access to artist led workshops, themed tours and festive activities. Ideal for finding that perfect Christmas gift and a chance to pick up some fabulous seasonal food and drinks too – making an unforgettable value-packed day out for all.
WHEN? 13th-15th December
COST? £6.50 per adult, under 18s, full time students and carers are free.
Bishop Aucklands Christmas Town, Bishop Auckland
INFO? A full 10 days of festive fun! Lots of festive food and drinks stalls, festive music and performances including prebookable evening shows in the large tipi and free live music in the market square at the Christmas Bandstand. Other orebookable activities include santas grotto (small cost) carousel (small cost) a ferris wheel (small cost ) and an skating rink (small cost ). There’s a large tipi with smoke free fire pits and a fully stocked bar.
WHEN? 29th November to 8th December
COST? The giant TIPI is free to enter with smoke free fire pits and fully stocked bar including hot drinks. You can bring food in that you have purchased from the stalls too. The Ferris Wheel and Carousel are £5 per person to prebook and this includes fast track queuing. The Santas grotto and ice skating are slightly more so would work out over £25 for a family of 4.
🎟️More info and booking at
Stockton Sparkles
INFO? Lights switch launch on 28th November with live entertainment. This
year’s highlights also include:
Santa Experience with free stories and festive singalong: Friday 29 and Saturday 30 November
Christmas Market: Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 December
Victorian Christmas Fair: Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December
Lantern Parade: Sunday 8 December
WHEN? 28th November-8th December
COST? FREE Event
📲 Follow their social page at https://www.facebook.com/stocktoncouncil
FESTIVE TRAILS
Darlington Ice Trail
INFO? selection of frosty and festive ice sculptures dotted around the town centre for visitors to explore and enjoy.
WHEN? 7th December
COST?Free, drop in between 11am-3pm (earlier is probably better to see the best of the sculptures)
Saltburn Ice Trail
INFO?Renowned ice sculptors Sand in Your Eye will create nine amazing ice sculptures around the theme of pantomime across Saltburn, creating a wonderful one-day trail for families to explore.
WHEN? 7th December
COST? FREE, drop in between 10am-4pm (earlier is probably better to see the best of the sculptures)
Enchanted Forest Reindeer Trail at Hopetown, Darlington
INFO? With the magnificent, newly-restored replica Locomotion No. 1 as a stunning centrepiece, the historic Carriage Works has been transformed into a snow-covered, fantastical forest of magical trees and woodland creatures – and of course, Santa’s missing reindeer. Take a wondrous wintery walk, hunt for clues and find all the reindeer so Santa can get on his way for his most important journey of the year - from Christmas eve into Christmas day.
WHEN? 26 November - 31 December
COST? £5 per child | Adults go free
Indoor Christmas Walk at Cherry Hill Garden and Landscape Centre, Middlesbrough
INFO? This years' display promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with loads of new attractions, our infamous singing Yeti's and plenty of photo opportunities.
WHEN? 9th November-24th December
COST? £5.99 per person. £22.99 family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children). Under 3s are free.
Winter Woodland Outdoor Walk at Cherry Hill Garden and Landscape Centre, Middlesbrough
INFO? A breathtaking walk of light displays through the woodland area. With the bonus of the Woodland Snack Shack you can warm up with a hot chocolate and a hot snack to really get you in the festive mood. Suitable for all ages, however it is a gravel pathway which although level, maybe a bit bumpy for pushchair and not suitable for wheelchair users.
WHEN? 29th November until 23rd December (selected dates)-evening slots.
COST? £5.99 per person. £22.99 family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children). Under 3s are free.
Walking with Snowman Trail across Middlesbrough Town Centre
INFO?The Snowman trail is inspired by Raymond Briggs' classic wordless picture book about a magical adventure. Each Snowman is inspired by the traditional Christmas Carol, the Twelve Days of Christmas, and is individually decorated by a professional artist.
WHEN? 25th November-1st January
COST? FREE
📲 Follow the We are Middlesbrough page for further info/updates at https://www.facebook.com/wearembro
Let it snow trail at Wharton Park, Durham
INFO? Find the enchanting snow globes hidden around the park. Each one holds a festive character in a snowy scene.
WHEN? 14th December-5th January
COST? £1 per trail sheet, collect from the cafe
🎟️ No booking required. ℹ️ Follow their page at
Oh Dear Reindeer Trail at Hardwick Park, Stockton on Tees
INFO? you find all Santas reindeer. Luckily they are all wrapped up in scarves to keep warm, but what is each one wearing?
WHEN? 30th November-5th January
COST? £1 per trail sheet, collect from the gift shop or cafe.
🎟️ No booking required.
ℹ️Follow their page at https://www.facebook.com/HardwickParkDurham
Santa’s Sleigh VR Ride at Dorman Museum, Middlesbrough
INFO?Climb aboard Santa’s sleigh as we give the sleigh a trial flight before Christmas Eve. Hold on to your hats and antlers everyone as you will fly across the globe and even into space! The perfect family festive VR experience to transport you from the Dorman to the North Pole.
WHEN?Saturday 30 November – Sunday 22 December
COST? £4.50 per person, £16 family or 4 (2 ads, 2ch).
🎟️Book via https://tinyurl.com/DormanVRChristmas
ℹ️Follow their page for updates at https://www.facebook.com/DormanMuseum
OTHER FESTIVE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
Darlington Libraries Festive Events
They are holding many budget friendly events. Most of these went on sale 16th September and do usually sell out quickly, so availability may be limited. Rhyme Time sessions will go on sale Monday 2nd December at 8am. (Santas Grotto in meet Santa section above)
WHEN, WHAT AND COST?
-Elsa and Olaf Party-7th December. Recommended ages 4-7. £7.50 per child.
-Grinch and Cindy Lou Party-14th December. Recommended ages 4-7. £7.50 per child.
-Festive Rhymetime sessions. Christmas elves, pass the parcel and lots of dancing-16th and 20th December at Darlington Library. 17th and 19th December at Cockerton Library.
🎟️Book all these events via https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/christmas-2024-at-darlington-libraries-3646909
Christmas Lights Switch on at Darlington Town Centre.
INFO? Taking place in the market square, there will be plenty of fun and music on the main stage. Santa will be making an appearance and carrying out the big switch-on, before the event finishes with a two-minute firework display. This year, the event will include an accessible viewing area for wheelchair users. Look out for the signage towards the front of the stage area.
WHEN? From 4pm on Sunday 17 November.
COST? FREE
Ice Sculpture Trail in Darlington Town Centre
INFO? An exciting trail of ice sculptures, dotted around the town for you to explore. Maps will be available at each sculpture plus there will be the chance to enter lots of free competitions.
WHEN? 7th December, 11am-4pm
COST? FREE
Christmas Lights Switch on at Middlesbrough town centre
INFO? There will be live entertainment and family fun including meet and greet opportunities, a giant snowglobe and the man in the red suit might even be there!!
WHEN? 28th November, 4-6pm
COST? FREE
📲Follow the We are Middlesbrough social page for any updates at https://www.facebook.com/wearembro
VR Magical Sleigh Ride at Cherry Hill Garden and Landscape Centre, Middlesbrough
INFO? Take a magical journey with DASH - Santa's robotic little helper to really get you into the festive mood. Two adventures to choose from, the ‘’World Adventure" where you accompany DASH on a test drive of Santa's new automated sleigh. Or the all new "Lapland Adventure" in which you and DASH make your way through Santa HQ. Not suitable for under 4s or those who suffer motion sickness. Not suitable for wheelchair users.
WHEN?9th November-24th December
COST? £5 per person
Mrs Claus’ North Pole Workshop at Cherry Hill Garden and Landscape Centre, Middlesbrough
INFO? Different activities depending on what the elves need help with back in the real North Pole! You may find yourself making christmas cards and decorations, or perhaps decorating some delicious festive cookies or making a snowglobe!
WHEN? 1st-23rd December on weekends
COST?£9.95 per child,
Reindeer Post at The Hullabaloo, Darlington
INFO? Santa’s post box will be in Café Hullabaloo to write a letter to Santa. There will be colouring sheets and letter templates available so that children can write their carefully crafted letter and post it the letterbox to Santa. Children will then receive a reply through the post.
WHEN? Saturday 9th November-Saturday 30th November
COST? FREE. A £1 donation is welcomed. This is a self-led activity in our café area.
🎟️No need to book just drop in
Christmas Create and Paint at The Hullabaloo, Darlington
INFO? Children will have the opportunity to make a truly special gift for a loved one in our festive theatre space. Please book the activities you would like to do on the day, you can choose up to 3. Recommend ages 0-7.
WHEN? Saturday 9th November
COST? £6-£12 depending on activities chosen.
🎟️Limited slots available. Book via https://www.theatrehullabaloo.org.uk/shows/aw24-christmas-create-paint/?#book
FREE Drop in Events at The Riverwalk, Durham
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Meet The Grinch & Cindy Lou in Whoville
INFO? Join the Grinch and Cindy Lou in a Whoville-themed wonderland! With a Grinch-themed Christmas tree and holiday vibes.
WHEN? 30th November & 1st December, 11 AM - 3 PM
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Dancing Stockings & Singing Teddy Bears
INFO? Watch out for large, gift-filled stockings dancing around The Riverwalk, along with adorable teddy bears singing merry tunes to spread holiday joy!
WHEN? 8th December, 11 AM - 3 PM
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Santa’s Arrival with the Naughty & Nice List
INFO?Santa is coming to town! Arriving in style on his sleigh, Santa will be joined by his elf driver and two cheeky elf chaperones.
WHEN? 14th December, 11 AM - 3 PM
📲For more info and updates on any of these, follow their social page at https://www.facebook.com/TheRiverwalkDurham
Christmas Lights Switch on at Aycliffe Town Centre
INFO? Lights switch on, free visit to Santas Grotto, live entertainment and performances, facepainting, funfair and more!
WHEN? 30th November, 3pm onwards
COST? Free, small charge applies for some activities
📲 Follow their page for any updates https://www.facebook.com/NewtonAycliffeTownCentre
December at the Dorman’. Various activities at the Dorman Museum, Middlesbrough;
INFO? Elf Town Experience-Visit Elf town and meet Santa's favourite helpers. Join Mrs Claus for a festive story, create your own reindeer feed, undertake some very important elf training and decorate a gingerbread character ready for Santa to enjoy when he visits your home on Christmas Eve.
WHEN? 30th November-1st December
COST? £6 per person
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INFO? Elf Pick n Mix Crafts-Drop in Elf Pick 'n' Mix Crafts Station and create personalised Christmas ornaments, decorations, and gifts. With a variety of craft supplies to choose from, you can mix and match to create unique and one-of-a-kind pieces.
WHEN? 30th November-1st December
COST? £2-£4 per craft
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INFO? Beginners Magic Workshop-Learn the secrets of illusion and create lasting memories. Our experienced magicians will guide you through the history of magic and teach you the basics of magic, making it easy and enjoyable for beginners.
WHEN? 7th-8th December
COST? £3.50 per person taking part, or including a craft £5.50
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INFO? Big Science Workshop-Join us for a day filled with exciting experiments, hands-on activities, and a sprinkle of holiday magic!
From creating glowing slime to building miniature snow machines, our experiments are designed to be both educational and entertaining.
🗓️ 14th December
💷 £7.50 per person (only required for those taking part)
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WHEN? 15th December
INFO?Groovy Kinda Christmas-Meet Millie Mischief, Shufflin' Sam & Jumping Jessie of 'Club Groovy' fame as they bring you their hour-long interactive show jam packed with magical moments, silly storylines, plenty of party dances and memory making madness!
COST? £4 per person or £19 for a ticket for 4 people
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INFO?Holly and Ivys Festive Book Club-As we delve into the enchanting story, indulge in a cup hot chocolate, topped with fluffy marshmallows and a sprinkle of festive cheer. While we sip and savour, let your creativity flow as we decorate delicious Christmas-themed biscuits. Unleash your inner artist and create edible masterpieces that are as delightful to look at as they are to taste. The fun doesn't stop there! Inspired by the magical world of our Christmas tale, we'll embark on a hands-on crafting project. Create a festive keepsake to adorn your home and cherish as a reminder of your book club adventure! A copy of the book to take home too. WHEN? 21st-22nd December
COST? £7.50 per person
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INFO? VR Experience Santas Sleigh Ride-Hold on to your hats and antlers everyone as you will fly across the globe and even into space!
Seating up to 6 people, this virtual reality experience offers a perfect family experience during the festive period!
WHEN? 30th November-22nd December
COST? £4.50 per person or £16 for group of 4
🎟️ Book your tickets for any of the above Dorman Museum events at
📲 Follow their page for updates at https://www.facebook.com/DormanMuseum
If you want to view the full festive guide for various budget, you can view it here
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THANKS FOR READING 💜
These guides are published for free. If you would like to thank me you can Buy me a coffee here.
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This blog has been produced by Charlotte Walcott (Business Owner of Family Fun Darlo Mum)
A bit about me- Mum to 2 boys, Kamron-8 and Leo-2, and stepmum to Damon- 15. Sharing family days out ideas, family venues and events in Darlington, County Durham, Teesside and Yorkshire.
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