The countdown to Christmas is officially on! After last year, almost all Christmas Light Switch On Events are back welcoming spectators and promise to be bigger than ever – with most offering a full programme of entertainment from parades and live music to guest appearances and street performers. I’m sure even the most Christmas-averse person cracks a smile at the sight of magical festive light displays so wrap up warm and join your local switch on.
As always, if you’re planning to visit any of the events listed, ALWAYS check direct with the organisers beforehand to ensure none of the details have changed.
Blyth
When: Friday 19th & Saturday 20th November 2021
Where: Blyth Town Centre
Highlights: TBC
Website: https://www.blythtowncouncil.org.uk/whatson.php
Dalton Park
When: Saturday 13th November 2021
Where: Dalton Park
Highlights: Metro Radio’s Steve and Karen will be flipping the switch
Website: https://www.dalton-park.co.uk/events/launch-of-christmas-2021/
Gateshead
When: Thursday 18th November 2021
Where: Trinity Square
Highlights: Popular character “Grinchy” is back again for 2021
Website: https://trinitysquaregateshead.co.uk/latest/grinchy-is-back/
Hebburn
When: Monday 29th November 2021
Where: Fountain Park
Highlights: The switch on will be led by community heroes in recognition of their outstanding support during the Covid pandemic
Website: https://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/74083/South-Tyneside-to-Shine-Bright-this-Christmas
Hexham
When: Friday 26th November 2021
Where: Market Place and Hexham Abbey
Highlights: TBC
Website: https://www.visithexham.net/events/christmas-hexham-2021
Jarrow
When: Friday 26th November 2021
Where: Jarrow Town Hall
Highlights: The switch on will be led by community heroes in recognition of their outstanding support during the Covid pandemic
Website: https://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/74083/South-Tyneside-to-Shine-Bright-this-Christmas
Newcastle
When: Thursday 11th November 2021
Where: Grey Street
Highlights: Hosted by Metro Radio
Website: https://www.newcastle.gov.uk/citylife-news/culture/newcastles-christmas-lights-switch-back
Middlesbrough
When: Sunday 28th November 2021
Where: Centre Square
Highlights: TBC
Website: https://www.wearemiddlesbrough.com/whats-on/family/christmas-parade-and-switch-on/
Redcar
When: Sunday 28th November 2021
Where: Town Centre
Highlights: Fire and Ice Parade followed by an evening hosted by Zetland FM
Website: https://redcarcleveland.co.uk/enjoy/event/redcar-christmas-lights-switch-on/
Rothbury
When: Saturday 20th November 2021
Where: Town Centre
Highlights: TBC
Website: https://m.facebook.com/Rothburychristmaslights/
South Shields
When: Wednesday 24th November
Where: Market Place
Highlights: The switch on will be led by community heroes in recognition of their outstanding support during the Covid pandemic
Website: https://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/article/74083/South-Tyneside-to-Shine-Bright-this-Christmas
Sunderland
When: Thursday 18th November 2021
Where: Keel Square
Highlights: Star of Sunderland Empire’s Pantomime, Su Pollard, will be making an appearance
Website: https://www.mysunderland.co.uk/christmaslights
North East Eats and Kids 