‘Tis the season to be busy. Fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la.
And there’s lots happening across Middlesbrough this month to help you celebrate the holiday season.
Read on for our top picks of events and activities that are sure to give you, your family and your friends all the festive feels.
Snowman Trail | 1 December – 7 January
Impressive sculptures reminiscent of The Snowman have returned to Middlesbrough’s town centre.
There are a dozen to spot, which are all inspired by The Twelve Days of Christmas and decorated to represent the gifts given in the carol. Can you find them all?
Find out more about Walking with The Snowman.
Nightfall Light Trail | 1 December – 3 December
If Christmas Lights is your favourite festive song, this one is for you.
Kick off your celebrations and head to Stewart Park after dark to enjoy an interactive light trail.
There’s art, live music and storytelling performances, not to mention the incredible photo ops.
For more information, or to grab your tickets, visit the Nightfall website.
Christmas Extravaganza: Elf Town Experience | 2 December – 3 December
Looking for the perfect family-friendly event? Dorman Museum has had a festive makeover for its Christmas Extravaganza.
Your family will have the chance to work alongside Santa’s helpers after undertaking special elf training – sorting letters, decorating gingerbread characters, listening to a story from Mrs Claus and meeting the big man himself.
And for everyone who has dreamed of taking a ride on Santa’s sleigh, there’s a magical virtual reality ride…
Christmas Dinners | 4, 5, 6, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 December
Celebrate the winter break by enjoying a fancy, festive feast with your course mates.
Pop along to the Students’ Union and tuck into a traditional Christmas dinner, complete with turkey, roast potatoes, seasonal veg, stuffing, pigs in blankets and, last but not least, Yorkshire puddings. Vegan and vegetarian options are available too.
Tickets cost ÂŁ9.99 per person and can be purchased online.
Christmas Crafts | 6 December
Embrace your inner elf and get crafty at the winter workshop.
Teesside University Students’ Union is hosting a Christmas crafts session. You can make your own cards and decorations while vibing to your favourite festive tunes.Â
All students are welcome, from seasoned crafters to arty amateurs.
Festive Celebration | 7 DecemberÂ
Teesside University students and staff are marking the end of another busy year on campus with a festive celebration.
There’ll be a marketplace, crafting workshops and a special carol concert, which you can enjoy while munching on a mince pie.
Find out more about the event, held in the Student Life building at Teesside University between 4.00pm-7.00pm, on the website.
Ice Skating | 8 December – 31 DecemberÂ
Get your skates on and come on down to Middlesbrough on Ice.Â
Ice skating is a staple activity in the Christmas calendar, and the rink is right on our doorstep in Centre Square on Albert Road.Â
Whether you’re Torvill and Dean or a bit of a Bambi, you’re sure to have an absolute blast. Check out times and book your slot on the website.Â
Cinderella | 8 December – 7 January
It’s time for a pantomime – oh yes it is!
This year, Middlesbrough Theatre is putting on the classic that is Cinderella. And, as expected, there’ll be lots of audience participation, so get your cheers, boos and hisses at the ready.Â
You can book tickets on the Middlesbrough Theatre website or watch the trailer here.
Christmas Quiz Night | 11 DecemberÂ
In case you needed an excuse to brush up on all things festive, Teesside University Students’ Union’s quiz night has had a winter makeover and will be testing your Christmas knowledge.
Grab your mates and come along to The Terrace, 7.30pm-11.30pm, for your chance to win free drinks and a mystery prize. Fun team names are encouraged. We like Sleighing It and Mistletoe and Win.Â
Christmas Games | 13 December
Get in touch with your your competitive side and join in the reindeer games at Teesside University Students’ Union.Â
From 11.00am-3.00pm, enjoy some festive fun.Â
Will you come out a winner, or will it be a blue Christmas?
Christmas Party Night | 15 December
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a big party, so Teesside University Students’ Union is hosting a special knees-up.
Head to The Hub for live entertainment featuring music from The Wolcott Band, dancefloor-filling nineties and noughties anthems, and a hot and cold buffet.
The party will take place from 7.00pm-12.00am, and more information is available on the Students’ Union website.
Orange Pip Market |Â 16 December
Middlesbrough’s famous Orange Pip Market is returning with a festive twist.
Come along to the free event to finish off your Christmas shopping, try some festive food and enjoy some fizz.
More information will be shared shortly on the website.
From ice skating to a magical sleigh ride, there’s so much to enjoy in Middlesbrough on the countdown to Christmas.
But, don’t forget the classics. Sometimes you can’t beat a nice hot chocolate while watching your favourite Christmas film snuggled in a blanket.