What’s Happening in Durham in December 2025?
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Durham. Whether you’re into lanterns, brass bands, candlelit concerts or simply a wander under the lights with a hot chocolate, there’s plenty going on across Durham this month.
Here’s what to look out for.
In the City Centre
December begins with the Christmas Sparkle, the Christmas lights switch-on hosted by Durham BID, on 30 November, 5.00–6.15pm in the Market Place. Expect live music, a lively crowd and that heartwarming moment the lights flick on across the city.
One of the biggest weekends of the year is the Durham Christmas Festival, running 5–7 December 9am–6pm, ( to 5pm Sun). The Market Place and Palace Green will be filled with stalls, makers, food and festive gifts. You’ll spot Durham Pointers in pink tabards helping visitors find their way.
On 7 December at 3pm, the Children’s Lantern Parade leaves the Market Place and makes its glowing way up to the Cathedral for the St Nicholas Service.
A Durham Pointer in Xmas hat
In the Town Hall
There’s a range of different activities at the Town Hall this month.
Mayor’s Coffee Morning
6 December, 10am–3pm Free
A warm drink, friendly faces and fundraising for St Cuthbert’s Hospice.
Candlelight Experience
13 & 20 December – Tickets from £21
For the first time, candlelit concerts fill the Town Hall with music from Queen, Fleetwood Mac, Hans Zimmer, Coldplay and seasonal classics.
Tickets: https://feverup.com/en/durham/candlelight
A view of the DLI statue in Durham Market Place with a dusting of snow and a xmas tree.
In the Cathedral
The Cathedral always feels magical at this time of year, and its December programme is packed with music, services and family events.
Find more details on the Cathedral website but here’s a taster of what to expect:
Carols for All – 5 Dec (11am & 2pm), 7 Dec (2pm)
The Snowman – live orchestra screening – 6 Dec
Friends Christmas Concert – 11 Dec, 7.30pm
Ceremony of Carols (Britten) – 13 Dec, 6pm
Blessing of the Crib & Christmas Tree Lighting – 14 Dec, 3pm
A Christmas Carol – 17 Dec, 7.30pm
Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols – Various dates
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons at Christmas – 29 Dec, 7.30pm
At Redhills / The Miners Hall
There’s plenty of festive music and heritage at Redhills this December.
Jazzy Christmas!
5 December, 7pm
Durham University’s Big Band and Jazz Orchestra bring swing, brass and seasonal sparkle.
DMA Brass Band Christmas Concert
7 December, 3pm
A traditional brass-band Christmas moment.
Tickets: https://redhillsdurham.org/events/
Redhills Tours – Rediscover Redhills
Tours on 3 and 17 December, plus an evening event on 5 December (7.30–10pm), offering an atmospheric look at the past, present and future of this historic building.
In the Libraries
A few festive family moments in Durham’s libraries during the Christmas Festival:
Clayport Library – Christmas Crafts
6 December – 11am & 2pm
Palace Green Library – Children’s Corner
6 & 7 December
Sparkly lights in Durham Cathedral nave
A carving of a miner's head inside the Miner’s Hall
Paper Xmas trees
Exploring Durham This Month
For more ideas of Durham attractions open in December, visit our Things to Do in Durham pages. You’ll find links to museums, galleries, heritage sites and seasonal activities with up-to-date opening hours.
Follow Durham Pointers on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates on attractions in Durham city centre, hidden gems, and upcoming events.