Christmas Is
#HappeningInSunderland

Celebrate the festive season in our Wearside Wonderland.

The festivities for Christmas in Sunderland kick off on 21 November and run all the way through to 2025!

It can be overwhelming to keep track of eveything that is #HappeningInSunderland so we have created this one-stop-spot for you to plan your Winter dining, shopping, playing, pampering and more.

Read on for festive menus, special offers & discounts, family-friendly events & activities, Christmas markets & fayres, pop-up events, party packages and a sleighful more ideas!

child kid with santa reindeer dash christmas

Events &
Activities

    • FireSide Sunderland

      Fire
      Side

      22 November – 1 January

      Opening times vary

      The Fire Station

       

    • Santa’s
      Grotto

      21 November – 24 December

      Opening times vary

      The Bridges Shopping Centre

    • Sunniside Festive Food Market

      Sunniside Festive
      Food Market

      22 December

      10 AM – 4 PM

      Sunniside Gardens

    • Emre Uğurlu

      Festive Family
      Fun Day

      14 December

      10:30 AM – 14:30 PM

      Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens

    • Age UK
      Carol Service

      6 December

      1:30 PM

      Sunderland Minster

    • Sunderland Minster

      Christmas Craft
      Fair

      7 December

      10 AM – 2 PM

      Sunderland Minster

      • Late Night
        Shopping

        5, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 & 23 December

        Until 7 PM

        The Bridges Shopping Centre

         

      • art cafe santa

        SEND
        Santa’s Grotto

        23 December

        10 AM – 5 PM

        The Athenauem, 27 Fawcett Street

      • Teenage
        Festive Market

        7 December

        11 AM – 4 PM

        Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens

      • Jack & The
        Beanstalk Trail

        3 December – 4 January

        Opening times vary

        Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens

      • Sunderland Minster

        Human Rights
        Day Event

        8 December

        2 PM – 3 PM

        Sunderland Minster

      • Houghton Brass

        Houghton Brass
        Christmas Concert

        10 December

        7 PM

        Sunderland Minster

        • The Terrace

          Festive
          Bottomless Brunch

          21 & 28 December

          2 PM – 3:30 PM or 4:30 PM – 6 PM

          The Terrace

        • Sheepfolds Stables

          The Big
          Christmas Quiz

          19 December

          7 PM – Late

          Sheepfolds Stables

        • art cafe santa

          Artful Christmas
          Grotto & Market

          7, 14, 21 December

          10 AM – 3 PM

          The Athenaeum, 27 Fawcett Street

        • Singo
          Bingo

          20 & 21 December

          7 PM – 11 PM

          The Point

        • My Delhi Sunderland

          Festive
          Bottomless Brunch

          7, 14, 21 & 28 December

          1 PM – 4 PM

          My Delhi

        • Bridges Christmas Market

          Bridges
          Christmas Markets

          8 & 22 December

          9 AM – 5:30 PM

          The Bridges Shopping Centre

          • Port of CAll

            Christmas
            Quiz

            22 December

            7 PM – 10 PM

            Port of Call

          • Candlelight

            Candlelight
            Christmas Concert

            20 December

            7 PM

            Sunderland Minster

          • Christmas
            Parties

            6, 13, 14 & 20 December

            Various times

            Stadium of Light

          • Festive afternoon tea

            Festive
            Afternoon Tea

            18 December

            12 PM – 3 PM

            Stadium of Light

          • Chaplins

            Christmas
            Quiz

            19 December

            7 PM – Late

            Chaplins

          • Atlas Theatre Company outside The Athenaeum

            Festive Little
            Drama Class

            23 December

            10 AM – 11 AM

            The Athenaeum, 27 Fawcett Street

            • Cooper Rose

              Christmas
              Crafts

              8 December

              All Day

              Cooper Rose (£2)

            • Cooper Rose

              Rock n
              Roll Bingo

              5, 12, 19, 26 December

              8 PM – Late

              Cooper Rose

            • Bridges VR Christmas

              Toy workshop
              Rescue VR

              7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 23, 24 December

              10 AM – 4 PM Saturdays, 11 AM – 3.30 PM Sundays, 10 AM – 6 PM 23 Dec,  9 AM – 4 PM 24 Dec

              The Bridges Shopping Centre

            • Bridges Santa Grotto

              Breakfast
              with Santa

              8, 15, & 22 December

              8:30 AM

              The Bridges Shopping Centre

            • Festive Floristry
              Wreath Making

              6 December

              5:30 PM – 7 PM or 7:30 PM – 9 PM

              The Art Room

            • Family-friendly
              Bauble Painting

              7 December

              12 PM – 1 PM or 1 PM – 2 PM or 2 PM – 3 PM

              The Art Room

              • Bishopwearmouth Choral Society

                Bishopwearmouth Choral
                Christmas Concert

                14 December

                6:45 PM

                Sunderland Minster

              • The Mayor’s
                Carol Concert

                16 December

                6 PM

                Sunderland Minster

              • Sunderland Minster

                Carol
                Service

                22 December

                6 PM – 7 PM

                Sunderland Minster

              • Sunderland
                Christingle

                24 December

                5 PM – 6 PM

                Sunderland Minster

              sunderland
              gift card

              Give the gift of ANYTHING this Christmas!

              When it comes to finding the perfect Christmas gift, it’s not always easy to choose something that matches their style or interests.

              That’s why the Sunderland Gift Card is an ideal option, offering the gift of choice while supporting local businesses. With almost 200 businesses from various sectors signed up to accept the Sunderland Gift Card, they really do get more! It’s a thoughtful way to give the flexibility to treat themselves while also giving back to the local community this festive season.

              Festive
              Menus

                  Fire
                  Side

                  Live music, indoor and outdoor bars, Winter cocktails, festive hot chocolates, woodfired pizza, artisan donuts, and more.

                  Step into a winter wonderland and visit the enchanting new heated pop-up space at The Fire Station.

                  A FREE festive pop-up experience exclusive to Sunderland, FireSide will house outdoor bars, street food, festive lighting and decorations, with cosy heated seating areas to enjoy live music, DJs and more.  Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat and some drinks before the show, visiting with the kids after the panto, or just want to enjoy a Yuletide get-together with friends, this is Sunderland’s newest must-visit destination.

                  Vaux pint beer

                  Party
                  Packages

                    • Glitter ball sunderland

                      Glitter
                      Ball

                      With exclusive venue hire, DJ-led karaoke, free shooters for singers, UV bracelets, glow sticks, and photos displayed on-screen, it’s the perfect spot for a lively celebration. Enjoy pizza packages with free chips to keep everyone fueled for a night of festivities. For booking details, contact Glitter Ball at 0191 5655755 or [email protected]

                    • The Botanist Sunderland

                      The
                      Botanist

                      The Botanist’s festive menu offers a fresh twist for office Christmas parties, featuring two or three-course meals with seasonal flavors and signature dishes like the Turkey Hanging Kebab, Baked Camembert, and vegan Festive Pie. With indulgent desserts, limited-edition Christmas cocktails, and live music every weekend, it’s the perfect setting for a memorable celebration. There is also a finger food package available, and drinks packages starting from just £7 per head! Available from 20 November to 24 December. Book now

                    • ttonic

                      Ttonic

                      With private booth hire, an upstairs function room, and customizable drinks packages, Ttonic offers the ultimate party experience. From Prosecco and premium spirits like Grey Goose or Hendrick’s to fun shots like Baby Guinness and Skittle Bombs, the options are designed to keep the celebrations going. Packages start at just £69, making it perfect for festive get-togethers or corporate parties. For bookings, contact Ttonic at 0191 565 5755 or email [email protected] to secure your spot!

                    • Port of Call

                      Port
                      Of Call

                      Port of Call offers a range of festive options to suit your needs. From cosy dining booths and unique tipi experiences for up to 150 guests to modern function rooms accommodating up to 300, there’s a space for every celebration. Enjoy festive dining, arrival drinks, or even pre-purchased drinks tokens to make your event extra special. Whether you’re planning a team celebration, a client gathering, or a memorable night out, Port of Call are ready to deliver a festive atmosphere. For bookings, call 0191 514 5408

                    • The Manor Bar Sunderland

                      Manor
                      Bar

                      Manor Bar is the perfect venue for your festive celebrations, accommodating parties of up to 130 guests. Choose from drinks tokens or tailored packages to ensure an unforgettable night. For smaller gatherings, book one of their cozy booths and enjoy the vibrant holiday atmosphere. Open every day except Christmas Day, Manor Bar is ready to host your Christmas events. Secure your spot now by visiting themanorbar.com and make this festive season one to remember!

                    • Sloanes
                      Sports Bar

                      Sloanes Sports Bar offers a fantastic experience for work teams or friends, with pool tables and brand-new dart lanes available for group events. Whether it’s a tournament or casual fun, these can be booked as part of a package, and a buffet can also be provided to complete the occasion. Throughout December, Sloanes continues to offer its great value drinks deals on buckets, making it an affordable and enjoyable choice for festive gatherings.  Call 0191 510 3000 or email[email protected] to book.

                    Getting
                    here

                    Enjoy £1 parking and FREE bus travel for kids this Christmas!

                    Pop in after work, pick up some gifts before going to the theatre, grab your click and collects, take the kids on a day out… all for under a fiver!

                    Park for £1 at The Bridges Shopping Centre between 5 PM and 7 PM on Late Shopping Nights 21 & 28 November, 5, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 & 23 December.

                    From December 21 to January 5, up to three kids aged 11 and under travel free on the bus when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket. Find out more about ticket fares here.

                    bridges park for a pound xmas christmas 2024

                    Shopping
                    Offers

                      • The
                        Entertainer

                        The Entertainer toy store in the Bridges Shopping Centre has all sorts of offers this festive season! Buy one get one half price on Playmobil until  31 December, 25% off selected Paw Patrol Jungle until  11 December, 25% off selected Kookyloos  4 December, 20% off Ravensburger Puzzles  8 January, 25% off Patti School until 6 January and 25% off Unicorns Academy until 30 December.

                      • Rumour Has It Christmas Cocktails

                        Rumour Has It
                        Christmas Cocktails

                        Green Terrace restaurant & bar Rumour Has It have a selection of delicious Festive cocktails, what’s more, you can enjoy 2 for just £14!

                      • Cakebox

                        Cakebox
                        Sweet Savers

                        For just £9.99 in-store customers can choose any 5 cupcakes, or 1 Vanilla Fruit Crown Cheesecake or 3 slices (from the £3.99 range). Pop into the High Street West store to bag a bargain treat today! Ends 23 December.

                      • Darke Cycles Service

                        Darke
                        Cycles

                        Darke Cycles was established in September 1982 in Fulwell, Sunderland during the BMX boom. Now based at 1 John Street in Sunderland City Centre, they have a wide variety of bicycles, scooters, accessories and services.

                      • Be more Geek

                        Be More
                        Geek

                        Showcasing a mind blowing range of film, TV and gaming merch, Be More Geek in the Bridges Shopping Centre has everything for the geek in your life.

                      Gift
                      Guides

                      Struggling to find the perfect gift?

                      Choosing a Christmas gift can be challenging, especially when you want to find something that suits their tastes. The Sunderland Gift Card makes the decision easy, offering a flexible and meaningful present that also supports local businesses..

                      With over 190 businesses from various sectors signed up to accept the Sunderland Gift Card, they really do get more choices! It’s a wonderful way to treat them while contributing to the local community during the festive season. Check out our Gift Guides for ideas how your loved ones can spend their Sunderland Gift Card.

                      For Him

                      For Her

                      For Couples

                      For Kids

                      Sunderland Gift Card Christmas 2024

                      Support
                      Independents

                        • Fat unicorn

                          FAT
                          Unicorn

                          Celebrate the season with specially curated festive platters, designed to bring joy and deliciousness to your gatherings. Each platter serves 4–8 people, making them perfect for holiday feasts with family and friends.
                          Available for pre-order and collection on December 23, 24, and New Year’s Eve. Order by emailing [email protected] or stop by the shop on Mackies Corner to place your order.
                        • The Sweet
                          Petite

                          Housed in the beautiful Victorian building in the heart of the city, Mackies Corner, you can find Sweet Petite there every Thursday to Sunday, serving up the tastiest treats and afternoon tea. The festive flavours are endless, from cookie pies to millionaires shortbreads, cheescakes to quiches and lots more.

                          • durham bed centre sunderland

                            Durham Bed
                            Centre

                            For a silent night this Christmas, why not treat yourself to a new bed? Head to Blandford Street and Visit Durham Bed Centre so you can be sound-asleep for Santa…

                          • Emersons Pet Centre Christmas

                            Emersons
                            Pet centre

                            Don’t forget your four-legged friends and cute critters this Christmas! Head to Fawcett Street to top up on treats at Emersons Pet Centre.

                          • flowers by jennifer

                            Flowers By
                            Jennifer

                            Family owned business with over 40 years of floristry experience, Flowers by Jennifer arrange top-quality Dutch flowers for all occasions, as well as stocking beautiful gifts and decorations. Head down to Blandford Street for your festive florals.

                          • Homefair Blinds

                            Homefair
                            Blinds

                            Offering a wide range of window treatment options, from classic styles to modern designs, to suit every taste and budget, Homefair Blinds in the Bridges Shopping Centre can brighten up your home ready for the big day!  Luxury product ranges that now include Plantation Shutters, Curtains and Awnings as well as all of the other types of window coveringspart of why Homefair are the luxury window covering retailer in the North East.

                          • Reynolds

                            Reynolds
                            Outdoors

                            Wrap up warm with Reynolds Outdoors! Originally started over 150 years ago, Reynolds is a traditional family run specialist retail business on Derwent Street.

                          • The Fashion Bible

                            The Fashion
                            Bible

                            Prepare to dazzle with a new outfit or teo from The Fashion Bible in the Bridges Shopping Centre!

                          Stay Up
                          To Date

                          Check out our Social Media Platforms!

                          Want to make sure you’re in the loop with everything that is #HappeningInSunderland?

                          You can find us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok! Just search “Sunderland Experience” or click the button below to stay in the loop.

                          Festival goes cheering with two elaborate characters

                          Christmas
                          Performances

                            • Rapunzel
                              Panto

                              The Point, Park Lane

                              4, 5 & 7 December

                              Many years ago, the King and Queen of a far-off Kingdom were blessed with a baby girl with magical, golden hair. They named her Rapunzel. Their happiness was short-lived as, one day, the jealous, evil witch Mother Gothel kidnapped the child and locked her in a tower, selfishly squandering all her powers for herself. With the help of local hairdresser Dame Fanny Follicle, her silly son Pascal and the dashing Prince Ryder, will Rapunzel ever escape her tower?

                            • Live Lounge Sunderland

                              lIVE
                              lOUNGE

                              Live Lounge, Park Lane

                              December
                              Friday 6 – 8:30 PM: Fossil
                              Saturday 7 (Super Saturday)
                              5:15 PM: The Cosmics
                              8:45 PM: The Revelry
                              Friday 13 – 8:30 PM: Adrenaline
                              Saturday 14 – 8:30 PM: Fizzy Fish
                              Friday 20 – 8:30 PM: Mugshot
                              Saturday 21 (Super Saturday)
                              5:15 PM: Small Wonder
                              8:45 PM: Flatback 4
                              Friday 27 – 8:30 PM: Copperhead NE
                              Saturday 28 – 8:30 PM: Monkey Punch

                            • Jack and the Beanstalk

                              Jack &
                              The Beanstalk

                              Sunderland Empire Theatre, High Street West

                              Various dates & times.

                              Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum, enjoy a GIANT helping of festive fun this Christmas, with the magical Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime! Starring Matthew Wolfenden, Miss Rory, Tom Whalley, Richard Meek, Emma Crossley, Gary Davis and Millie Readshaw.

                            • A West
                              End Christmas

                              The Fire Station, High Street West

                              15 December, 6:30 PM

                              This magical evening features beloved Christmas classics and show-stopping musical numbers straight from the heart of the West End, performed by tomorrow’s stars. Join us for a night of holiday cheer, incredible voices, and dazzling performances that will leave you singing all the way home! Perfect for families, theatre lovers, and anyone ready to celebrate the season in style. Don’t forget your Christmas Jumper!

                            • A Jazzy
                              Christmas

                              The Fire Station, High Street West

                              16 December, 7:30 PM

                              Featuring new arrangements of festive favourites penned by pianist Paul Edis and performed by the ‘velvet-voiced’ Jo Harrop alongside a 9-piece band, A Jazzy Christmas returns to The Fire Station for December 2024! You can expect to hear classic Christmas hits reimagined as swinging big band numbers, sambas and much more besides. You don’t have to be a jazz fan to like this show, but if you are, you’ll be blown away by the standard of musicianship from some of the leading lights on the UK jazz scene.

                            • Toyah & Robert
                              Christmas Party

                              The Fire Station, High Street West

                              17 December, 7:30 PM

                              Following the runaway success of their Sunday Lunch YouTube series, and their critically acclaimed Tour of ’23, Toyah Willcox and Robert Fripp are bursting out of their kitchen again, for the Christmas Party 2024 and hitting the road for an evening of classic rock in the company of two rock legends and their band.

                              • Christmas
                                Ceilidh

                                The Fire Station, High Street West

                                23 December, 7 PM

                                Whether you’re a seasoned ceilidh dancer or it’s your first time, get yourself in the Christmas spirit with a traditional Northumbrian dance party – no experience necessary. The quintet features virtuosic traditional accordion and violin players Amy Thatcher and Catherine Geldard backed by Kieran Szifris on octave mandolin, Ivor Novello-nominated electronic composer and bassist David de la Haye and YouTube sensation D’n’B producer Joseph Truswell.

                              • The Snowman
                                In Concert

                                The Fire Station, High Street West

                                22 December, 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM & 4:30 PM

                                In keeping with the book, the film of The Snowman is wordless and free of dialogue, except for the now iconic, “Walking in the Air” which features as part of a timeless musical score. We’re delighted to welcome brass virtuosos The EverReady Band back to The Fire Station this Christmas to perform the classic score alongside a screening of the film.

                              • Step Into
                                Christmas

                                The Fire Station, High Street West

                                24 December, 5 PM

                                Step Into Christmas for the most magical show of the year. Including ‘All I Want for Christmas Is You’, ‘Last Christmas’, ‘Jingle Bell Rock’, ‘Stay Another Day’, ‘Let It Snow’, ‘White Christmas’, ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas’, ‘A Winter’s Tale’, ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’, and many, many more!

                              • HAZE X
                                VANDALO

                                The Point

                                26 December, 10 PM

                                LUUK VAN DIJK – SORLEY – PROCURO – CEEJ – NATH BROWN – JOEY DUNN – BRIGZ – STOOPS & BENJI