It's the most wonderful time of the year and there's loads going on in Middlesbrough. So, to help you have a holly jolly Christmas, we've put all the best festive events in one place – we know, it's a Christmas miracle!
Crack out the mince pies, whip up a hot chocolate and grab your diary. This is your guide to Christmas in Middlesbrough.
Christmas at a glance
- Christmas Lights Switch On 2026 – Sunday 22 November, 2pm – 6pm, Centre Square
- James B Partridge – The Big Christmas Assembly 2026 – Tuesday 1 December, Middlesbrough Town Hall
- Winter Wonderland at Newham Grange Farm – selected dates from 5 – 24 December
- Aladdin Christmas Pantomime – Saturday 5 December – Thursday 31 December, Middlesbrough Theatre
- Magical Middlesbrough Lantern Parade – Sunday 13 December, 2pm – 6pm, Town Centre (starting at Teesside University)
- Snowman trail – Monday 16 November – Sunday 3 January
The big stuff
Eat, drink and be merry in Boro this Christmas
Whether you’re snuggling up with a cup of mulled wine or planning your Christmas party in Middlesbrough with friends, family or workmates – Middlesbrough has plenty to keep your taste buds tingling this festive season.
#Top 5 hot chocolates to melt your heart
Looking for a winter warmer? These cosy spots serve up the best hot choccies in town:
Top 5 Christmas party spots
Planning your Christmas do? These venues are everybody’s fave for a festive gathering:
Surviving the Chrimbo Limbo
It’s that weird week between Christmas and New Year when no-one knows what day it is. Step away from the Quality Street and get yourself out of the house.
Winter walks worth wrapping up for
Blow the cobwebs away and go walking in a winter wonderland. Check out these local beauty spots.
- Avenue of trees
- Fairy Dell
- Ormesby Hall
- Riverside walk
- Stewart Park
Shop local this Christmas
The gift that keeps on giving – support some local businesses this Christmas. Forget the online rush – Middlesbrough’s shops and markets are bursting with unique gifts, handmade treasures and festive finds.
- Alta Ego, Dundas Arcade – Crystals, incense, and mystical gifts for the spiritually curious.
- ASB Football Shirts, Dundas Arcade – Retro kits for the footie fan in your life.
- Dorman Museum’s Gift Shop – Quirky finds and educational treats.
- Gallery TS1, Hillstreet Centre – Local art, pottery and handmade gifts
- Gates of Cerberus, Dundas Arcade – Gaming heaven for tabletop and video game fans.
- MIMA’s Gift Shop – Art-inspired gifts and stylish stocking fillers.
- The Antique Shop, Linthorpe Road – Vintage charm and one-of-a-kind pieces.
- The Art Shop, Linthorpe Road – Supplies and gifts for the creatives in your life.
- The Scent Bar, Cleveland Centre – Perfumes, bakhoor, diffusers and more.
Want to see even more amazing recommendations, deals and events? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok!
From cosy cuppas to handcrafted gifts, Middlesbrough is the place to be this Christmas. So, wrap up warm, shop small, and support local – it's the most wonderful time of the year to explore your town.
