SPONSORED CONTENT

CHRISTMAS InDurham is going to be better than ever this year, so make sure you don’t miss a minute of it!

From mid-November onwards, the city will be buzzing with Yuletide cheer, so whether you’re booking an intimate dinner for two, a family fun day, or an extravagant mother-and-daughter shopping expedition, Durham city centre will get you in the festive spirit.

There are a whole lot of fantastic events planned, beginning with a magical Nutcracker-themed Christmas Lights Switch-On in the Market Place on Friday, November 30.

Inspired by The Greatest Showman, the story will be brought to life through music, live action and death-defying stunts, culminating in the spectacular Christmas Tree illumination. Don’t leave it too late to claim your place at this marvellous event, because the Market Place is expected to be very busy!

And don’t expect to just stand and watch because it promises to be a truly immersive experience.

The fun starts at 5.45pm, but come early to soak in the atmosphere and revel in the Christmas spirit. Treat yourself, friends and family to a mulled wine, a mince pie or a delicious meal at one of the many and varied eateries in the city, or stroll along the high street enjoying the festive window displays.

You’ll be tempted by the many independent shops that typify the unique Durham shopping experience, where you’ll find goodies that are a bit different to the usual high street stores.

Manager of Durham BID, Adam Deathe, said: “There’s definitely something for everyone in Durham this Christmas. The city offers many different things to its many different visitors and residents. It’s well worth a visit, and making a day of it in this beautiful city this Christmas time.”

Come into the city on December 6 and you might not believe your eyes. A live, promenade nativity play will feature three wise men riding camels into the Market Place. This traditional and much-loved Christmas story is being staged in collaboration with the parishioners from St Nicholas’ Church, and begins at 6pm.

Enjoy the carols in the Cathedral on a selection of dates, or visit the popular Durham Markets Christmas Festival which is celebrating its 25th year.

There’s plenty of parking centrally - or use the park and ride with regular shuttles, to avoid driving into the city.

www.durhambid.co.uk/christmas