What’s On in Middlesbrough – Christmas Edition 🎄

Christmas tree lit up in Centre Square

‘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 sculpture

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.

Christmas lights in trees

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.

Naughty elf doll pictured smiling in front of a Christmas tree

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 dinner centre-piece with candy canes

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.

Supplies for Christmas crafting, including wrapping paper, scissors and ribbon

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. 

All students are welcome, from seasoned crafters to arty amateurs.

Teesside University logo with Christmas lights

Festive Celebration  |  7 December 

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.

A group of people ice skating

Ice Skating  |  8 December – 31 December 

Get your skates on and come on down to Middlesbrough on Ice. 

Ice skating is a staple activity in the Christmas calendar, and the rink is right on our doorstep in Centre Square on Albert Road. 

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. 

Red, velvet theatre curtains

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. 

You can book tickets on the Middlesbrough Theatre website or watch the trailer here.

Christmas pen on a table with red ribbon and gold stars

Christmas Quiz Night  |  11 December 

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. 

Red dice showing double six on a white table

Christmas Games  |  13 December

Get in touch with your your competitive side and join in the reindeer games at Teesside University Students’ Union. 

From 11.00am-3.00pm, enjoy some festive fun. 

Will you come out a winner, or will it be a blue Christmas?

Party night at the Students' Union

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.

Market

Orange Pip Market |  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.

Lauren

Author: Lauren

Since completing her undergraduate studies in Journalism at Teesside University, Lauren has taken on the role of Communications Assistant (Content Production). She knows a thing or two about student life, as she’s currently working towards achieving her master’s degree at the University.