The festive countdown officially begins in Middlesbrough this weekend with two days of spectacular family events set to transform the town centre into a winter wonderland.
A Weekend of Festive Magic
This year's celebrations feature the much-anticipated return of the community Christmas parade alongside the official Christmas Lights Switch On, proudly sponsored by Everyone Active. In an exciting new addition, the creators of Nightfall are presenting 'Shine On, Boro', a brand-new pop-up light festival.
The magical weekend kicks off on Sunday, November 23, with the Christmas parade starting at 2pm from Middlesbrough Town Hall. Cheer on Santa, local schools, and community groups as they travel a looped route: from the Town Hall down Corporation Road, onto Linthorpe Road, through the pedestrianised area, then onto Grange Road and Albert Road before returning to the Town Hall.
Centre Square Celebrations
Running concurrently with the parade, the Christmas Lights Switch On event on Centre Square offers a full day of entertainment from 12pm to 6pm. Visitors can explore market stalls and enjoy fairground rides, which will operate until 9pm.
The jam-packed stage programme begins at 12.10pm with Club Groovy By Urban Kaos. The full schedule runs as follows:
- 12.10pm – 1.45pm: Community stage with performances from Urban Kaos, Tees Dance, Teesside Musical Theatre Youth Company, and Middlesbrough Youth Theatre.
- 2pm – 3pm: Break for the Christmas Parade.
- 3pm – 4.55pm: Festive party featuring dance acts, pop hits, Apollo Big Sing, and stars from Middlesbrough Theatre’s pantomime.
- 5pm: The main event - the Christmas Lights Switch On.
- 5pm – 6.30pm: Performance by the Paul Skerritt Band.
Spectacular Light Installations
Adding to the weekend's excitement, Stellar Creates presents 'Shine On, Boro'. This pop-up light festival will run on both Saturday, November 22 and Sunday, November 23 from 4.30pm to 9.30pm. It will feature five stunning light installations around Centre Square and Middlesbrough Town Hall. Visitors can also participate in festive creative workshops at MIMA and the town hall.
Councillor Philippa Storey, Middlesbrough’s deputy mayor and executive member for Culture, shared her enthusiasm: “There’s not long to go now – our fabulous real Christmas tree has arrived in Centre Square and this weekend promises to be magical. I’m looking forward to magical days in our town centre with fun and happy memories for people of all ages. It is a delight to be able to bring the parade back, it means so much to children and families in Middlesbrough.”
For more detailed information on all the weekend’s events, residents are encouraged to visit the official website: www.wearemiddlesbrough.com/christmas-2025/.
