Christmas Parade and Lights Switch On proudly sponsored by Everyone Active

On Sunday 23 November, thousands of people gathered in Centre Square to see Middlesbrough’s twinkly lights get switched on and to watch the magical festive parade.

Everyone Active sponsored the event, they manage the leisure centres across Middlesbrough in partnership with Middlesbrough Council. 

If you would like the chance to try out the gym, a class or have a swim at one of Everyone Active’s sites for free visit their website and request your free day pass.

Everyone Active are currently running a festive promotion for all those enrolled on swimming lessons offering the chance to win a trip to Lapland. For further details visit the Everyone Active website.

Shine On, Boro

Free light installations and performances from the makers of Nightfall, Stellar Creates took over Centre Square and the Town Hall on Saturday 22 – Sunday 23 November as part of Shine on, Boro. 

Visitors flocked to see the giant illuminated cat, the paradise carpet alongside other artworks. 

Festive events not to miss

Keep up to date with events for all the family by visiting our what’s on guide.

Christmas Extravaganza weekend at the Dorman Museum

Spend the whole weekend getting into the festive spirit between 6 to 7 December. Jingle down to Elf Town and meet Santa, browse the artisan market, dance the day away at the silent disco or hop aboard the Christmas express virtual reality ride.

Entry to the museum is free, but you must book a timeslot for the Elf Town and the VR experience on the Dorman Museum website. 

Goldilocks and the Three Bears at Middlesbrough Theatre

Expect stunning sets, dazzling costumes and lots of audience participation between 5 – 31 December.

Limited seats left for each performing, book tickets on the Box Office website now.

Newham Grange Farm’s Winter Wonderland

The farm will transform into a magical Winter Wonderland, complete with twinkly trees, light displays, character meet and greets, festive music and lots more! Visit Santa in his grotto, make a cuddly friend with the cheeky elves and enjoy breakfast with Mrs Claus on selected dates between 6 to 24 December.

Book on the Newham Grange Farm website here.

Nightfall

This popular event returns to Stewart Park between 28 to 30 November with a spectacular trail of interactive light artworks, live music, storytelling, performance, and delicious street food.

Book tickets on the Nightfall website.

Walking with the Snowman trail
The popular Walking with The Snowman trail returns to Middlesbrough town centre this festive season.

Eat, drink, and be merry

Whether you’re snuggling up with a cup of cocoa or planning your Christmas night out, Middlesbrough has plenty to keep your taste buds tingling this festive season.

Where to head for a cosy hot chocolate

Looking for a winter warmer? These cosy spots serve up the best hot chocolates in town:

• Steam & Bean – try their dreamy white chocolate matcha.
• Café Etch – escape to this town centre creative haven for a cosy cuppa
• Off the Ground – sip their dark hot chocolate which is creamy and perfectly sweetened.
• Heavenly Desserts – real milk chocolate, torched fluff, and chocolate shavings. It’s dessert in a cup.
• Costa – with a menu including Terry’s Chocolate Orange and brand-new Caramel Nutcracker, don’t miss these festive treats at Costa.

Top 5 Christmas party spots

• Central Park – a Teesside institution with something special for everyone.
• Sambuca – Italian favourites and a lively atmosphere.
• Manjaros – Caribbean spice meets Christmas spirit.
• Tiger Ivy – chic, stylish and perfect for a glam night out.
• Uno Momento – is it even Christmas without a team trip to Uno Momento?!

Visit our food and drink guide to see a full list of venues to visit this Christmas.

Shop local 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 fanatic in your life.
• Dorman Museum’s Gift Shop – quirky finds and educational treats.
• Gallery TS1, Hillstreet Centre – local art, pottery and handmade gifts, come and support Teesside’s creatives.
• Gates of Cerberus, Dundas Arcade – gaming heaven for tabletop and video game fans.
• MIMA’s Gift Shop – art-inspired gifts and stylish stocking fillers.
• Picks and Sticks, Dundas Arcade – guitars, drums, repairs and accessories for every musician.
• Stewart Park Farmers’ Market – stock up on last minute gifts, awarding food and drink at the popular market on Sunday 21 December, between 9am and 2pm.
• 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, diffusers and more — a sensory treat.
• Ziggy’s Luxury Gifts and Hampers, Nunthorpe  – with eclectic gifts, handmade hampers, local crafts and produce, and even fresh flowers, Ziggy’s Luxury Gifts and Hampers is a one-stop-shop for your Christmas list!
  

Parking and travel information

Take advantage of some fantastic town centre parking offers this festive season:

• Captain Cook Square car park: park for up 3 hours for £1.50
• Council operated car parks and on street pay and display: free parking after 6pm
• On street pay and display bays (Sunday only): free to park

Middlesbrough Railway Station and Bus Station are just a short five minute walk from Centre Square and have local and regional travel links.

More travel information is available on our website