Close

The latest stories, straight to your inbox

The latest stories, straight to your inbox
Close

Be inspired every day with Living North

Subscribe today and get every issue delivered direct to your door
Subscribe Now
Be inspired every day with Living North
Great Ways to Fill Your Festive Weekend
What's on
December 2023
Reading time 4 minutes

Stuck for ideas? Here are the best ways to fill your festive weekend

From taking a haunted tour through historical streets to throwback disco nights, free festive extravaganzas and the best places to grab a drink, here are the great ways to keep busy this weekend.

Merry and bright…

Enjoy the return of Wakefield Cathedral’s much-loved event Carols by Candlelight beginning Friday 15th December. Get cosy this weekend as you listen to Wakefield Cathedral Choir sing stunning renditions of your favourite carols and enjoy the mulled wine served during the interval. There is also an optional pre-service drinks reception. Also on the 15th, Newcastle Cathedral will be hosting Candlelit Carols, performed by the resident choir with refreshments available and a CD of the choir’s music on sale. All proceeds will go to the Cathedral’s music department.

Ghoulishly festive fun…

With hauntings that rival even the infamous York, the Morpeth Christmas Ghost tours are not to be missed. Taking place this Saturday (16th) enjoy a tour around the most haunted parts of the historical town as you learn about the hardships and heartbreak behind the ghostly figures. The tour lasts approximately an hour and is suitable for the whole family. But make sure to wrap up warm! 

Boogie wonderland…

Pull out your platforms and shimmy into your flares because this Saturday (16th), Arthur’s at Fenwick Newcastle is hosting a Studio 54 Disco Night. Inspired by the infamous 1970s nightclub, the night will include a live seven-piece funk and soul band playing all your favourite disco classics, a three-course feast, and drinks on arrival. 

Ice Wings at Keel Square | Sunderland Experience

Ice to meet you…

From 16th–17th December, Sunderland’s Keel Square will be transformed into a winter wonderland. Enjoy ice sculptures of reindeer and nutcrackers, be transformed into a real-life snow angel with the giant ice-wings and watch a live-sculpting of Santa’s sleigh. Santa’s elves will also be on hand to help write your letters. The best part? It’s free!

Naughty or nice…

This one is for all of the history buffs: head to York this weekend for the Saints and Sinners Tour of the city. Hosted by a local art historian, be transported back in time and learn about some of York’s famous historical characters including the Highwayman, the Terrorist and the Chocolatier. The tour is roughly two hours long and will run on Friday 15th and Saturday 16th December.  

Going green…

Are you trying to make more eco-conscious choices this Christmas? You can stock up on pre-loved gifts in Sheffield at the Meersbrook and Heeley Christmas Yard Sale this Saturday (16th). Take a relaxing stroll through the streets as the residents put out their best wares, and why not stop for a cheeky Christmas treat at one of the many cafés?

Read More: Breakaways to Book Now for the Perfect Christmas Escape

The Vermont Hotel SPARK York

Dinner and a show…

Beginning this weekend, the County Hotel in Newcastle will be hosting Breakfast with the Grinch. Come along for a warm breakfast-buffet as Cindy Lou Who and the Grinch keep the kids entertained all morning. At The Vermont Hotel, enjoy a festive afternoon tea with cakes, sandwiches and scones as well as a special visit from Santa himself. Arthur’s Restaurant at Fenwick is also hosting Afternoon Tea With Santa, with Santa’s elves taking you to your table and an early Christmas gift once the kids are finished eating. 

Bring it in…

The Hoi Polloi in Newcastle are hosting a very special pop-up event over the weekend. Bringing in local favourites including Full Circle Brew, sustainable fashion brand RE:BOURN and vintage clothing brand Common Like Vintage, this is shaping up to be great celebration of Northern businesses. The event will take place from 15th–16th December so head along for some relaxed shopping and cheeky pints. For more great places to grab a drink this winter, click here.  

Dear Santa…

Head to SPARK York this Saturday (16th) for a magical time. Hosted by Little Pickle Creatives, the venue will be holding a Craft Letters to Santa workshop for children. Also being held at the same time is a Christmas wreath workshop for all ages and abilities so you can take home some festive cheer.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.


Please read our Cookie policy.