We’ve rounded up some of the best light trails and events taking place to get the whole family in the festive mood.
5. Lumiere, Durham, November 18-21
The hugely popular Lumiere returns to Durham from November 18-21 featuring 37 international artworks. The turbulence of the past 18 months is addressed in several works, from memorial to optimistic opening, while the overarching issue of climate change and its environmental impact are huge influences on Lumiere artists this year. Lumiere is open each night between 4.30pm and 11pm, with the county programme operating between 4.30pm and 10pm. For full details, including how to buy tickets for the event, visit lumiere-festival.com. Photo: submitted
6. Forest of Light, Beamish Hall Hotel, various dates throughout November and December
Gather the family and join Beamish Hall Hotel in County Durham as it hosts magical illuminations and lighting displays in its woodland featuring specially-commissioned pieces. It's running on dates throughout November, December and January from 4pm to 8pm. Tickets are £8 and under 1s go free from www.beamish-hall.co.uk Photo: chris bishop (picturesbybish)
7. Sunderland Illuminations, Seaburn and Roker seafront.
Although the Festival of Light at Roker Park is ticketed, the illuminations, which span the length of the seafront, are free and will be shining brightly throughout the festive season. Photo: Stu Norton
8. Saints and Angels, Bamburgh Castle, 13 November – 3 January
The spirit of Christmas will soar through Bamburgh Castle with a spectacular festive event this year. Heralded as Saints & Angels, visitors to the magical Northumberland castle will travel through staterooms, each transformed into a theatrical extravaganza, where angels take flight overhead. Charlotte Lloyd Webber and the creative team at CLW Event Design have created the celestial design for Bamburgh Castle’s first-ever major Christmas event - which will open to visitors on Saturday November 13 - in which the castle will be festooned from on high with theatrical festive sets, dramatic décor, towering floral arrangements, mighty Christmas trees and a host of angels. Entrance included with general admission tickets: Adults £14.10 / Children £6.95 / Children aged four and under free of charge. Photo: Jane Coltman