As Lumiere opens in Durham City, towns in South Durham are preparing their own Christmas events and light switch-ons.
Bishop Auckland
Over the last year Bishop Auckland Town Team have been raising money to buy new Christmas lights. The switch-on takes place at the entrance to Auckland Castle grounds from 4pm on Friday, 22nd November.
Shops and businesses in the town will also be decorating their windows for the event.
Spennymoor
The Christmas lights events start at 4pm on Friday, 29th November outside the Town Hall. Santa Claus will be in town too with a grotto open from 4pm to 6pm in the Town Hall.
Shildon
A special Christmas procession takes place on Friday, 6th December from 4.30pm at the Civic Hall. Family entertainment will start at 5pm. The event is organised by Shildon Town Council.
Crook
A festive fayre takes place on Sunday, 24th November from 11am to 4pm at Crook Town A.F.C. on West Road. There will be stalls, entertainment, Rudolph pulling Santa’s sleigh and more. The event is being put on by Crook Community Partnership.
Newton Aycliffe
The lights in Newton Aycliffe will be switched on after 4.30pm on Saturday, 16th November in Aycliffe shopping centre. The lights will be switched on by X Factor star Amelia Lily.
See more Christmas events in our What’s On guide.