This year, Christmas officially begins in Sunderland on Thursday 23 November, when the festive light switch-on heralds the arrival of the best time of year. 

And the fun doesn't stop there — get ready for five weeks full of excitement and cheer, as our city centre is warmed through with a full programme of events for all the family.

Get your skates on and take to the real, open-air ice rink, complete your Christmas shopping at the pop-up market within Park Lane or spend your Thursday and Weekend evenings involved in our community spirit programme.

There's something for everyone this winter, all you have to do is visit and see.

So what are you waiting for, experience something new this Christmas in Sunderland!

The excitement starts on November 23 and will keep going right up until Christmas Eve.

Sunderland's ice rink will remain open until Sunday 7 Janaury 2018 - for full dates click here.