It’s Christmas! The most wonderful time of the year is making its mark on Sunderland and we couldn’t be more excited for what the city has in store. From brilliant bauble workshops at National Glass Centre, to hilarious family pantomimes and the Festival of Light, Sunderland has all your Christmas needs covered! Check out some of our top picks for festive family fun in this winter…
WREATH WORKSHOPS
2 December – 10 December
Nothing screams Christmas more than an eye-catching wreath hanging outside the front door.
Whether you’re looking to build a giant, full-size masterpiece or construct a cute, heart shaped creation for the roaring fire place, these great workshops will give you the skills and materials to make your creative Christmassy dreams a reality!
The perfect present for a loved one, or something you can show off in your own home this festive period. Taking place at Arts Centre Washington, Fulwell Windmill & Tearooms, Washington Old Hall and Cleadon Florists.
ARTSCENTREWASHINGTON.CO.UK FACEBOOK.COM/FULWELLWINDMILL NATIONALTRUST.ORG.UK CLEADONFLORISTS.CO.UK
SUNDERLAND ICE RINK
Until 5 January 2020
Head to Keel Square and skate to your heart’s content at Sunderland Ice Rink.
A visit to the fabulous, open air rink has become an iconic Christmas tradition for so many people in the city and we’re delighted that it’s back for 2019/2020!
Take in the twinkly views and listen to a mix of chart bangers and classic festive tunes while you whizz around and show off your skills, before heading into the city for a festive tipple or two.
Brought to you by the fine folk over at Sunderland BID, tickets start from just £7.50 (£3 per child) and are available to buy now.
See you on the ice!
FESTIVAL OF LIGHT
Until 22 December
Enjoy a wide range of Christmas lighting installations at Festival of Light, topped off with exciting live music, illuminated street characters, exclusive visits from Santa’s reindeer and more.
CINDERELLA
13 December – 5 January 2020
Catch Sunderland superstar, Scarlett Moffatt, in Sunderland Empire’s magical pantomime – Cinderella! Promising a spell- binding adventure for the whole family, it’s an absolute must-see. Tickets from £10.25.
HADRIAN’S TIPI
Until 31 December
For Christmassy cocktails with that added sparkle, make a date with Hadrian’s Tipi!
This year, the team are stepping things up for an even bigger, better and busier festive season with a new city centre Christmas location.
Situated at the former Crowtree Leisure Centre site, get set for another year of killer cocktails, mulled wine, roaring log fires and feel-good food.
Visitors can also look forward to an additional marquee, meaning double the space for double the fun.
ROBIN HOOD
12 – 22 December
Take a trip to Sherwood Forest this December as Robin Hood and his Merry Men whistle into the Royalty Theatre for an evening of laugh-out-loud panto fun!
This hilarious adaptation sees the cumbersome Merry Men try and save Robin Hood’s one true love, Marian, from the clutches of the evil sheriff of Nottingham.
Scream, shout and jump about as part of this feel-good family event that will have children thoroughly entertained and parents chuckling throughout.
Built in 1925, The Royalty Theatre is an historical venue that produces regular stage productions and a stunning place to visit.
Make sure you book your tickets now!
STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER
19 December
Get set for an action packed trip to Sunderland Empire Cinema as Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker hits the big screen.
Journey to a galaxy far, far away with Rey and friends as the face off against the evil First Order.
Expect special appearances from all your favourite characters, a range of cool Star Wars merchandise and great foodie deals!
Tickets on sale now.
