Fire & Ice Durham is one of the city’s most spectacular free winter events, returning on 27 and 28 February 2026. This two-day festival transforms Durham into a magical world of ice sculptures, fire displays and illuminated evening shows, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Spread throughout Durham City Centre, the event features:
Stunning carved ice sculptures created by professional artists
Live ice-carving demonstrations
Fire performers and flame effects
A dramatic evening finale show combining music, light and pyrotechnics
Family-friendly trails and activities around the city
Each year carries a theme, with sculptures placed across popular city spots such as the Market Place, Millennium Place and Prince Bishops Riverside—perfect for an atmospheric winter walk.
Fire & Ice is ideal for families, couples and groups looking for something unique to enjoy during the colder months. The event is free to attend, and visitors can explore shops, cafés, and riverside views as they follow the sculpture trail.
The evening finale is the highlight of the festival, drawing crowds for a spectacular outdoor performance that lights up the historic backdrop of Durham.
If you’re planning to visit Fire & Ice Durham, The Barn Oakenshaw offers a peaceful countryside stay within easy reach of the city. After exploring the sculptures and enjoying the evening entertainment, you can return to calm surroundings, private parking and comfortable accommodation.
Our location is perfect for a winter weekend break, combining the excitement of the festival with the relaxation of a rural retreat.
Wrap up warm — temperatures are low enough to keep the sculptures frozen.
Arrive early for the evening finale, as it attracts large crowds.
Parking in the city can be limited; park-and-ride or public transport is recommended.
✨ Weardale Railway – Santa Express ✨
Various dates throughout November & December 2025
Climb aboard the Santa Express for one of the most magical festive experiences in County Durham. The historic Weardale Railway transforms into a Christmas wonderland, offering a heart-warming adventure for families and children of all ages.
🎅 What to Expect:
🚂 A beautifully decorated vintage train filled with festive cheer
🎄 Twinkling lights, cosy carriages & Christmas music
🎁 A special visit from Santa himself as he walks through the train
🧝 Friendly elves helping with gifts, games & festive fun
📜 Each child receives a named present from Santa
📸 Plenty of magical photo opportunities
🎤 Live entertainment and storytelling throughout the journey
❄️ Scenic winter views of the Weardale countryside
The Santa Express is designed to feel like stepping straight into a Christmas storybook — a joyful, nostalgic experience perfect for making family memories.
Santa Express – Christmas Railway – 21st November to 24th December 2025
✨ Raby Castle – Enchanted Christmas Light Trail ✨
Sat 15 Nov 2025 – Sun 4 Jan 2026
Step into a world of festive magic at the Enchanted Christmas Light Trail at Raby Castle — one of County Durham’s most breath-taking winter experiences. Wander through glowing woodland paths, shimmering light installations, and beautifully illuminated castle grounds as the historic estate transforms into a sparkling wonderland for the season.
Expect a magical evening filled with:
🎄 Twinkling tunnels of light
✨ Enchanted forest scenes
🕯️ Atmospheric projections on the castle
🍭 Festive food cabins, drinks & treats
👨👩👧 A family-friendly trail perfect for all ages
📸 Stunning photo moments at every turn
Whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple, or bringing the whole group, Raby’s light trail delivers a truly unforgettable festive experience — a perfect way to start (or end!) your Christmas celebrations.
Christmas at Raby | Raby Castle | High Force | County Durham
✨ Gala Durham Pantomime – Jack and the Beanstalk ✨
20 November – 31 December 2025
Get ready for laughter, magic, and plenty of “Oh yes it is!” as the much-loved Gala Durham Pantomime returns with Jack and the Beanstalk. A cherished Christmas tradition in the North East, this spectacular show is packed with hilarious comedy, catchy songs, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable family fun.
🌱 What to Expect:
🎭 Classic panto humour — silly jokes, playful chaos, and lots of audience participation
🌟 A talented cast bringing Jack, Dame Trott, the Giant and all your favourites to life
🎶 Big musical numbers the whole family will be singing for days
✨ Impressive staging & magical effects that make the beanstalk truly spectacular
👧 A perfect festive outing for kids, parents, grandparents… everyone!
With laughter, surprises and feel-good festive energy from start to finish, the Gala Panto continues to be one of Durham’s most popular Christmas family events. Expect booing, cheering, shouting “He’s behind you!”, and leaving with your cheeks aching from smiling.
A brilliant tradition for creating Christmas memories and kicking off the holiday season with joy.
21 November – 31 December 2025
Just minutes from The Barn Oakenshaw, AGLOW transforms the historic grounds of Auckland Castle into a breathtaking illuminated winter trail. Wander through the enchanting Deer Park as thousands of sparkling lights, glowing sculptures, and magical projections turn the landscape into a Christmas wonderland.
🎄 What to Expect:
🌟 Mesmerising light installations and immersive displays
✨ A magical festive trail perfect for all ages
🏰 Stunning views of the castle illuminated under the night sky
❄️ A cosy, atmospheric walk through the Deer Park
📸 Beautiful photo spots around every corner
🎶 Seasonal music adding to the festive mood
Aglow at Auckland Palace – An illuminated Christmas light trail
CONTACT INFO
NAVIGATE
Copyright © 2025 | Website made by Boostly 
