The Auckland Project launches 40% off festive ticket packages for Black Friday
The Auckland Project has announced a 40% Black Friday discount on its popular Festive Ticket Package, giving visitors the chance to experience two of the region’s standout Christmas attractions for less.
The package includes entry to Christmas at Auckland Palace, featuring the spectacular Auckland Palace Nativity, as well as AGLOW – the mesmerizing 1.5-mile illuminated trail through the historic grounds of Auckland Palace.
With the Black Friday offer – running to 10am on Saturday, November 29 - ticket prices are now reduced for adults, children, and families.
Cheryl Durkin, Head of Events and Programming at The Auckland Project, said: “Christmas at Auckland Palace and AGLOW are two of the North East’s must-see Christmas attractions, and we’re thrilled to offer visitors 40% off our Festive Ticket Package this Black Friday, making it easier than ever for families to experience the magic of Christmas at Auckland Palace and AGLOW.
"From breathtaking light displays to festive food and the spectacular Auckland Palace Nativity, it’s a chance to make unforgettable memories with loved ones.”
AGLOW is one of the North East’s must-see Christmas attractions.Running until December 31 (closed Christmas Day), the 1.5-mile illuminated trail transforms Auckland Palace’s grounds into a glittering winter wonderland with over 24 large-scale installations across the Palace’s historic parkland.
Visitors start at the iconic AGLOW arch, then wander through a 100-metre tunnel of light, and experience the shimmering mirror balls, dazzling lasers, interactive musical light installation, fire displays and breathtaking projections. A 32-metre Christmas tree – one of the tallest in the North – towers above, wrapped in almost a kilometre of lights.
At its heart, Santa’s Village will be transformed into a lively festive food hub filled with wooden cabins serving stone-baked pizzas from Bute Pizza Co., and bratwurst sausages and chicken schnitzel from Edelwurst Catering.
Reindeer’s Rest will serve an array of artisan pies with mash and gravy, with the option to add mushy peas. There will also be deliciously crisp roast potatoes and Walled Garden winter vegetable soup with mini cheese scone. Visitors with a sweet tooth can visit Crumble Cabin, which will serve apple or winterberry crumble or a rich chocolate brownie, with custard. Families can also toast marshmallows over the fire pits.
Santa’s little helpers will also be on hand to keep little ones entertained with live performances.
New for 2025 is Twinkling Tipi in the Palace’s Arrivals Court, offering a warm welcome with mulled wine, cider, beer, and rich hot chocolate. Also, Coco Corner will be serving a range of hot drinks and festive biscuits.
By day, the Palace’s magnificent State Rooms are dressed for the season. From November 21 – December 31, 12 rooms – including the Long Dining Room and Throne Room – will be decked with garlands, glittering trees and themed decorations blending history with festive sparkle.
The meticulously restored medieval Bishop’s Kitchen will offer visitors a new festive menu, comprising hearty soups, artisan pies, sandwiches, and cakes, alongside Festive Afternoon Tea, served daily from 12–3 pm and feature firm favourites, including turkey and stuffing, cheese and pickle, and mini prawn cocktail sandwiches, with warm festive scones and indulgent sweet treats. Guests can also upgrade to a High Tea with Prosecco.
While in the Faith Museum, the extraordinary 18th-century Neapolitan Nativity scene will be on display. Measuring 11ft tall and 15ft wide, with more than 400 individually carved figures, it is one of the most important examples outside Italy.