What's on in Darlington for winter 2024
While we’re sad that the sun has hung up his hat for another year, we can’t help but feel excited about the darker nights and more wintry events that are on their way. Darlington is a real hotspot for things to do as the air gets colder, so take a look at this list and start planning your trip.
Diwali in Darlington
On Saturday 26 October, Darlington will be celebrating the festival of light and colour, Diwali. From 11am to 6pm, the historical streets of the town centre will come alive with the sights and sounds of the annual parade, and you’re invited! There'll be Bollywood dancing, mandala creating, print workshops and the fabulous lantern parade on the evening. Find more info here.
Darlington Restaurant Week
If you’re after something delicious to do in the winter months, why not get a slice of the action at Darlington Restaurant Week? This biannual event will be back from Monday 28 October to Sunday 3 November, giving you the opportunity to explore Darlington through your tastebuds. If you're a restaurant owner who would like to be involved in Darlington Restaurant Week, please fill out this form or contact info@tgimedia.co.uk
Darlington Christmas Lights Switch On
Start Darlington’s official countdown to Christmas with the Lights Switch On. This is an incredibly popular local event, featuring live performances and an appearance from Santa Claus, the big man himself, and finishing off with a short firework display. This is the perfect winter event to get yourself and your family in the festive spirit and to see Darlington come alive with Christmas magic. This event will be held on Sunday 17 November with entertainment starting from 4pm.
Enchanted Forest Reindeer Trail
The newly redeveloped Hopetown visitor attraction will be decking the halls of the historic Carriage Works and transforming the site into a fantastical forest of magical trees and woodland creatures. You’re invited to take a wondrous walk, hunt for clues and find all of the reindeer to help Santa get on his way for Christmas Eve. This event will be running from Tuesday 26 November to Tuesday 31 December and tickets cost £5 per child. As entry to the Hopetown site is free, you’ll be able to explore the museum too! Find more info here.
The Big Christmas Assembly
We all love a bit of nostalgia and no one knows that better than James B Partridge, the creator of Primary School Assembly Bangers Live. His shows sell out all across the country and he’s bringing the Christmas edition to the Darlington Hippodrome on Thursday 28 November. He’ll be playing all of our favourite festive tunes that we sang in school assemblies and, of course, singing along is absolutely encouraged. There’ll also be musical surprises, throwback mashups and reflections on Christmas back in the day. Book your tickets here.
Sleeping Beauty
Panto is always such a huge hit as we get closer to Christmas and the Darlington Hippodrome are renowned for having a top show for the whole family to enjoy. This year, it’s all about Sleeping Beauty, the classic story of Princess Aurora who pricks her finger on an enchanted spinning wheel and forced to sleep for 100 years. Starring Lee Mead as the Prince and Su Pollard as the evil Aunt Carabosse, this is sure to be spectacular! The pantomime is on from Friday 6 to Tuesday 31 December and you can get your tickets here.
Santa at Hopetown
As if the Enchanted Forest Reindeer Trail wasn’t enough, you can also meet the big man himself at Hopetown this winter. Every Friday from 6 December to 23 December, there will be a two hour event where children can make a holly crown and listen to some traditional, festive storytelling. They’ll also get to meet Santa and receive an early Christmas gift, so this is a great option to really get into the seasonal spirit. Click here to book your spaces.
Ice Sculpture Trail
There’s nothing that says winter quite like an ice sculpture trail and Darlington’s will head to town on Saturday 7 December. This trail is always a fantastic and exciting way to explore the centre, with hand carved sculptures guiding the way. There’ll be a whole host of characters and winter-themed icons to find, so keep your eyes peeled. And don’t forget to snap a selfie with your favourite sculpture and share it on social media!
Darlington is easy to reach by rail with the station connecting to major cities like Durham, Newcastle and York. Why not make a weekend of it and book a stay in a hotel?