Christmas in Sunderland 2014

This festive season will be a fairytale come true as Sunderland shines with a magical array of light and activity.

This year’s Christmas programme is brought to you by a new partnership between Sunderland City Council, Sunderland Live and Sunderland Business Improvement District (BID). The collaboration will bring the city spectacular Christmas fun that will run from Thursday, November 13 to Tuesday, January 6, 2015.

Beginning with the annual Christmas Lights Switch On event on November 13, which will take place on the
Crowtree site, the city centre will play host to all things that sparkle, glitter and glisten. From buildings awash with coloured light and projections to illuminated shop window displays; light installations will be enjoyed in places you least expect them.

Mowbray Park will once again become a beacon of white light, playing host to the ever-popular Christmas features as well as a hidden charm of twinkling fairies. Santa’s real reindeer will also be stopping off for a final rest before the big day from Friday, December 19 to Monday, December 22.

There is also plenty for food lovers to get their teeth into. Farmers’ Markets on Friday, November 28 and Friday, December 19 in Market Square will ensure shoppers will have all their winter veg, cheeses, meats and goodies in time for the Christmas celebrations. A new advent-themed feature will celebrate 24 local businesses and organisations throughout December. Each day will start with the ‘opening’ of the advent calendar door somewhere in the city, releasing that venue’s activity that will run throughout the day. In the run up to Christmas then you might be interested in the new Santa Runs. Based in Mowbray Park this is an opportunity for all the family to have some fun, raise money for charity and compete for great prizes. Additional activities will be taking place in the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens as well as the City Library and don’t forget the annual Boxing Day Dip at Seaburn.