Our Pointing season has ended for 2026, so we’re no longer greeting visitors in the Market Place, but there’s still lots happening in Durham to tell you about
We keep a list of the city’s main annual events on our website, but here’s a closer look at what’s coming up over the next couple of months, along with a few useful notes if you’re planning a visit. We will be updating this page as more information becomes available, so remember to keep checking.
Remembrance Day
The Festival of Remembrance service at Durham Cathedral, organised by the Army Benevolent Fund takes place at 7.30pm on 7th November. At 10am on 8th November there is a Cathedral service followed by the Remembrance Day Parade which leaves from the Cathedral and passes through the Market Place at about 11.20 am
Redhills is hosting a Brass Band and Choir Concert of Remembrance on 8th Nov at 3pm (Ticketed)
On 1st Nov between 10am and 4pm join an activity at The Light to create a Poppy Installation for Remembrance Day and on 12th at 6pm you can join a creative writing workshop exploring remembrance.
On 8th a Remembrance Run is taking place starting at the Rowing Club in Durham at 9.30
In St Cuthbert’s Chapel at Ushaw Historic House a Remembrance Concert will be held at 7pm on 7th Nov and a Remembrance Service with Sung Vespers on 8th Nov at 4pm.
The Joint Hospital Group from Catterick Garrison checking things out for the Remembrance Day parade
Christmas Events
Christmas Sparkle, the Durham Xmas lights switch on will be happening on 29th Nov at 5pm in the Market Place, with live music and street performers.xmas trees durham cathedral
We’re excited that the first Durham Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival takes place between 4th Dec - 4th Jan. The trees will be decorated by local organisations
Pointers will be out and about helping visitors find their way around the Durham Xmas Festival on 4th - 6th Dec. As always, there will be stalls in the Market Place and in the marquee on Palace Green, with the Childrens’ Lantern Parade taking place on 6th at 3pm (Market Place)
Take a break from Christmas shopping at the Mayors Charity Coffee Morning in the Town Hall on 5th Dec 10am -3pm.
Enjoy the atmosphere of a medieval Christmas at Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols on 12th Dec at 6pm in the Cathedral
A nativity scene
Tours and Activities
Durham Cathedral never disappoints. Wander round and enjoy this stunning building and explore the current exhibition while visiting the Monks Dormitory, Great Kitchen and the Treasures of St Cuthbert.
Cosin’s Library within Palace Green Library is one of the earliest public libraries in the North East, founded in 1669 by Bishop John Cosin.
Durham Castle run guided tours most afternoons except Sundays. Don’t miss the new Jewel of the North light projection in the Norman Chapel, depicting the Norman history of the castle.
Redhills: Durham Miners’ Hall Tours continue to be popular, and are selling out quickly. Booking ahead is essential. Redhills Sundays allow free entry between 11am and 2pm
Music in the City
Redhills is hosting a winter music programme including a tribute to Bob Dylan, a Jazzy Christmas , the Unthanks and much more.
Meanwhile, Durham Cathedral hosts a series of Candlelight tribute concerts on various dates, featuring music inspired by Coldplay and Fleetwood Mac. The cathedral has a wide variety of concerts and performances listed on their website too.
Cosin’s Library
Durham Cathedral
Exploring Durham This Month
November and December are always busy leading up to Christmas, but they’re a great time to explore Durham at a gentler pace—fewer crowds, crisp winter walks, and plenty happening if you know where to look. 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.