(AD) Loads of towns and villages around the North East are starting to look very festive already, with various events and activities taking place, which is great to see after last Christmas, but in Redcar & Cleveland, there is an amazing line up of festive offerings, to make this year, extra special for families in the area!
There is loads going on, but the events I am most looking forward to are Redcar Christmas Lights Switch On and Illumination Parade on Sunday, 28 November, 4:30pm-6:45pm. An evening of visual displays, performances, music, sparkling lights and of course festive joy and Redcar Ice Trail and Winter Walk About, which is heading to Redcar on 11 December, 10am-6pm; drop in across the day, to complete the ice sculpture trail and enjoy pop up festive performances.
From traditional carol services and markets, to parades and even an ice sculpture trail, here are all the details you will need when planning your Christmas in this beautiful corner of our region...
Following on from what proved to be a huge success last year with "The Great Doorstep Switch On", the theme of illumination will once again be brought to life with an array of lanterns, lights and costumes. Wrap up warm and follow the crowds on a truly inspiring route of entertainment and outstanding musical performances by Spark! Illuminated Drummers and Back Chat Brass ahead of the Christmas Light Switch On.
You can view a copy of the parade route map HERE
We are going along for the big switch on so, if you can't make it, watch out for plenty of pictures on our social media.
Sparkling Marske Christmas Festival - 2 December
The Christmas festival, in Marske, really sounds like it has something to offer the whole family, with Santa visiting to take part in the parade, with real Reindeer. The big man will also be meeting children in his grotto (£2.00 per child) and there is the chance to feed the Reindeer at St. Marks Church.
If that isn't enough, their is also a huge craft fair, a funfair, brass band and choir!
Christmas Wreath Making at Kirkleatham Walled Garden - 2 & 7 December
Workshops take place at the beautiful Glasshouse in the grounds of the Walled Garden by candlelight and you can even opt in for a festive Christmas lunch.
Eston Christmas Market - 3 December
An open-air market will be held in Eston Town Centre Precinct, selling all kinds of crafts, foods and Christmas goodies. Entertainment kicks off from 3pm, including stilt walkers, a children’s mini waltzer ride, face painting and snowboard simulator.
Christmas at Kirkleatham Museum - 4, 5, 18 & 19 December
Kirkleatham is one of our favourite museums in the whole region, so we will definitely be popping in on one of these dates.
This year, the museum will play host to mini outdoor Christmas markets, featuring brand new local traders. Entertainment includes music, outdoor street theatre, Christmas trails, and mini workshops… you might also get a glimpse of Santa and his Elves!
Guisborough Twilight Christmas Market - 7 December
Guisborough Town Council and the Friends of Chaloner Street Market will host a Twilight Christmas Market, including an outdoor Santa’s grotto and an array of street entertainment with fun for all the family.
Please be advised that this event date is subject to road closure approval, therefore subject to change at short notice. Please check the Guisborough Town Council website for confirmed details of the event.
Redcar Ice Trail - 11 December
Renowned Ice sculptors Sand in Your Eye will be delivering amazing ice sculptures along Redcar High Street and Esplanade, so why not collect your ice trail sheet, (either print your own or pick one up from one of our event stewards around on the day) to check off the activity. Once complete enter our special competition and follow this handy guide to discover ice creations in the design of a snowflake, a snowman, a nutcracker, Santa, and a reindeer!! Those that complete this frosty walk will also receive a small prize.
The Ice Trail can be downloaded HERE.
Not only can you revel in the amazing sight of these exciting ice sculptures, but you will be able to experience a live ice carve and see these talented artists at work and there will also be an ice workshop where the elves can help you write your letter to Santa and post them in our very own ice post box!!
And if that isn’t enough enjoyment throughout the day, there will be an array of festive performances.
Saltburn, Marske & new Marske Community Carol Service - 16 December
Join the carol singers at 7pm at St. Mark’s Church, Marske, TS11 6JX
PANTO! Aladdin at Coatham Memorial Hall - 24 - 30 December
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a good old pantomime, so dust off your flying carpets and take a trip to Coatham Memorial Hall for Tom Rolfe’s take on the much-loved tale of Aladdin. Expect dazzling scenery, colour costumes hilarious comedy, and amazing special effects.
Tickets - £12.50, concessions £9.99
Christmas at Ormesby Hall - Various dates
As National Trust members, we are regular visitors to Ormesby Hall. The place always looks beautiful at Christmas and this year will be no exception.
There is plenty gong on, including the house all decked out for the festive season, family activities, seasonal treats, Christmas tree sales, Santa's grotto (sold out), and Percy the Park Keeper's Winter Wander.
We are heading along for an exclusive preview of the house in all it's festive glory, so watch out for plenty of pictures on our social media.
Free entry for National Trust members. Charges apply for non-members.
Creative Christmas Workshops at Eston Arts Centre - Various Dates
Get creative and crafty this December at Eston Arts Centre.
Various workshops to take part in, most of which are free of charge.
For info or to book, please contact estonstories@gmail.com
Boxing Day Dip - 26 December
The Boxing Day Dip is back for 2021 when the brave face the freezing North Sea! Whether you’re there purely for the fresh air, fancy dress or to raise money for a good cause, it’s a great morning out!
For further information on all the events across the Borough, visit, the dedicated What’ On page, www.redcarcleveland.co.uk/enjoy/events/
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