Full rundown of Christmas light switch-ons across Teesside for 2024

The countdown to Christmas is on and towns across Teesside are gearing up for their traditional light switch-ons.

The events have become a must-see for many families across the area in the run up to the big day. This year's launches of the bright lights spectacles will feature live performances, festive food and more,

Here is the full list of events and timings that are happening across Middlesbrough, Redcar, Stockton, Hartlepool and Darlington for the next few weeks.

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Middlesbrough

The town's annual switch-on event returns to Centre Square on Thursday, November 28, with broadcasting legend, Jeff Stelling, turning on the twinkly lights. Hosted by BBC Tees, the free event starts at 4pm with the lights switched on at 5.45pm.

Following the countdown, the Wildcats promise to bring a jig-fuelled performance before a party on the square. Meanwhile, town centre restaurants, coffee shops and pubs have partnered up to provide a selection of deals and offers for kids for one day only.

Other events to enjoy throughout the day include meet and greets and photo opportunities, the popular giant snow globe and a visit from Santa. More festive fun and surprises will be announced soon.

Stockton

The Stockton Sparkles winter festival is set to return to the high street, with the launch event taking place on Thursday, November 28, from 5pm. The evening will feature the all important lights switch-on along with live music and entertainment, hot food and drinks.

Hosted by BBC Tees presenter Rachel Teate, the event will also see entertainment both on and off stage from Creature Feature, Markmark Productions, Poppins Presents and A Bird in the Hand Theatre. Expect music, magic, merriment and an aerial hoop performance alongside Func on the Rocks as the stage house band.

Santa is also set to make an appearance with his festive choir Rhapsody on the Santa Bus.

Redcar and Cleveland

The Redcar lights switch-on and illumination parade takes place on Sunday, November 24. The fun will start at 12pm on Redcar High Street where there will be street entertainment in the build up to the pantomime-themed lights switch on at 5.45pm.

Expect stunning visual displays, music, lights and plenty of festive fun on a musical main stage hosted by BBC Tees from 3pm. The Illumination Parade also has a pantomime theme with Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Snow White and Maleficent taking part, leaving Redcar Civic Centre at 4.15pm.

Earlier in the day there’ll be a chance to meet Santa and friends in his grotto near the Blue Clock from 12pm to 3.30pm. The Snowman film will be shown at the clock at 12.30pm and 2pm.

Hartlepool

The Christmas Light Switch-on will be on Friday, November 29, in Church Square. Timings and more details of the free event, organised by Hartlepool Council and sponsored by X-energy, will be announced closer to the time.

Darlington

Darlington's event takes place on Sunday, November 17, from 4pm to 5.30pm at the Market Square. There will be plenty of music and fun on the main stage hosted by Steve and Karen from the Hits Radio Breakfast Show.

Santa will be making an appearance and carrying out the big switch-on, before the event finishes with a two-minute firework display. This year, the event will include an accessible viewing area for wheelchair users - look out for the signage towards the front of the stage area.

For more information about the accessible viewing area, email eventsteam@darlington.gov.uk

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