Designer Makers Christmas Market, The Witham, Barnard Castle, on Saturday/Sunday, 10-4pm

A two-day event, showcasing some of the very best designers and craftspeople from around the region. The emphasis will be on original and contemporary work, with a strong 'up-cycled' theme.

There will be an opportunity to meet the designer-makers in person and buy unique handcrafted goods of gallery quality. A golden opportunity to buy quality handmade gifts in time for Christmas. As well as talented craftspeople selling their work, some will be demonstrating their skills and throughout the weekend there will also be ‘have a go’ sessions where people of all ages can try their hand at learning a new craft.

Entry is free but a small donation to St Teresa’s Hospice would be appreciated.

  • For more information go to: www.designermakersmarket.co.uk

Tale of Two Cities, The Dolphin Centre, Darlington, on Saturday/Sunday, 2pm and 7.30pm

The Northern Echo:

In partnership with the Touring Consortium Theatre Company, this will be a promenade performance where the audience will follow, on foot, all of the action between the two cities of London and Paris (seating will be available for people if required).

Dickens considered A Tale of Two Cities to be the best story he had ever written. Interweaving one family’s intensely personal drama with the terror and chaos of the French Revolution, it is an epic story of love, sacrifice and redemption amidst horrific violence and world changing events.

This thrilling new adaptation by Mike Poulton will feature a community cast of 30 actors alongside a professional production team led by directing rising star, Eduard Lewis. Tickets on 01325-486555. 

NSPCC Christmas fair, Duncombe Park, Helmsley on Saturday 9.30-4pm

Around 70 carefully selected stalls provide gifts in all categories from Christmas decorations and cards, to kitchenware, toys, books, jewellery, fashion, homeware, interiors and gentlemen's' accessories.

Half of the stalls for 2016 are first time exhibitors at the Christmas Fair and bring plenty of new ideas for shoppers, whilst the remaining best selling ranges return with the favourites we like to buy each year. 
Money raised at the Christmas Fair in aid of the NSPCC goes towards the NSPCC's vital services for children, young people and families in the Yorkshire region. 

Mavis Sparkle, Stockton Arc, on Saturday, 11.30am and 2.30pm

With a magician for a dad and a stargazer for a mum, no wonder there’s more to Mavis than meets the eye! A feather duster in one hand and a few tricks up her sleeve, our chatty cleaner is moving ever closer to making her dreams come true.

With a little help from her cheeky cuckoo clock, mischievous mop bucket, Spike the hedgehog and a nice cup of tea, Mavis is on a journey north to see nature’s biggest light show with her own eyes. M6’s cosmic production mixes magic, illusion, animation and laughter inspiring us all to dust away doubts, follow our dreams and reach for the stars! For ages 4+ and families.

Tickets on 01642-525199. 

Christmas at Beamish, opens on Saturday 

The Northern Echo:

Step back into Christmas past and join the celebrations as you explore 1820s Pockerley Old Hall, the 1900s Town and Pit Village and 1940s Farm. There will be a chance to visit Father Christmas in his magical Grotto, or why not feed his reindeer? From ice skating to traditional stalls, festive food to steam train rides, Christmas at Beamish is the perfect festive day out for all the family. Runs until December 24. 0191-370 4000.