The spirit of Christmas is set to illuminate Teesside this year as towns across the region prepare to host their annual Christmas lights switch-on events. These joyous gatherings will mark the official start of the festive season, bringing together communities for an evening of merriment and enchantment.
Middlesbrough Christmas Lights Switch-On
On Sunday, November 19, Centre Square in Middlesbrough will transform into a winter wonderland as the town’s Christmas lights are switched on. The festivities will commence at noon and continue until 6:30 pm, featuring a delightful array of live entertainment, music, and festive treats. A funfair will also be on hand to add to the excitement, and the grand finale will be the illumination of the town’s Christmas lights at 5:30 pm.
Stockton Christmas Lights Switch-On
The Stockton Sparkles winter festival returns to Stockton High Street on Thursday, November 23, kicking off with the Christmas lights switch-on at 5:30 pm. Popular BBC Tees presenters Gary Philipson and Dan Westwood will host the event, along with Santa Claus himself. A festive performance by the Stockton Sings Choir and Apollo House Band ft. Marina Gears will add to the merriment, while Santa’s Elves and Jones and Barnard will showcase a choreographed LED performance and a variety show.
The Stockton Sparkles festivities continue throughout the week with the Victorian Christmas Fair from November 23 to 26, the Christmas Market from November 30 to December 3, and the Lantern Parade on December 3.
Redcar Christmas Lights Switch-On
Redcar’s Christmas lights switch-on and illumination parade promise a dazzling spectacle on Sunday, November 26. The festivities begin on High Street at 2 pm, with the main stage program commencing at 3 pm. The highlight of the evening will be the illuminations parade, starting at 4:15 pm and featuring over 200 participants adorned in lanterns, costumes, and vibrant visual displays. Professional performers will add to the festivities, filling the air with festive sights, sounds, and music. The grand finale will be the official switching on of the Christmas lights by the Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland shortly before the event finishes at 5:45 pm.
Darlington Christmas Lights Switch-On
The Christmas lights in Darlington will be switched on this Sunday, November 19 at 4pm in Market Square. The event will feature live music and entertainment on the main stage, with TFM’s Steve and Karen hosting the festivities. Santa Claus will also be making an appearance and switching on the lights, followed by a two-minute firework display.
This year’s event will also include an accessible viewing area for wheelchair users. Look out for the signage towards the front of the stage area.
Yarm Christmas Lights Switch-On
Yarm’s Christmas lights switch-on will take place on Sunday, December 3, from 2pm – 5 pm on Yarm High Street. The event will feature live music, festive performances, and the illumination of the town’s Christmas lights.
Ingleby Barwick Christmas Lights Switch-On
Ingleby Barwick’s Christmas lights switch-on will take place on Friday, November 24, at the Myton Pub Car Park from 6 pm. The event will feature live music from the Ingleby Barwick Community Choir, a visit from Santa, and the illumination of the town’s Christmas lights.
Additional Christmas Lights Switch-On Events
In addition to the major events mentioned above, several other towns in Teesside will also be hosting Christmas lights switch-on events this year:
- Billingham: The Billingham Christmas lights switch-on will take place on Saturday, November 25 in Billingham Town Centre
- Hartlepool: The Hartlepool Christmas lights switch-on will take place on Friday 1st December in Church Square with some very special guests pressing the button.
These Christmas lights switch-on events promise to be a highlight of the festive season in Teesside, bringing communities together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.