What's on at North East Museums
Christmas 2026 at North East Museums - share magical moments with the people you love
Get into the festive spirit and enjoy family-friendly Christmas events in Newcastle, Gateshead, South Tyneside, North Tyneside, and Northumberland.
On this page
Make magical memories this festive season with Christmas experiences across the North East. From family shows and Santa visits to heritage train rides, creative workshops and Christmas markets, there's something for all ages:
Head to our What's On page if you want to see all Christmas events in date order.
Family Christmas shows and Santa experiences
The Elf Express – a magical festive show and heritage train ride
Make this Christmas truly magical aboard the Elf Express at Stephenson Steam Railway, North Tyneside. Enjoy a live performance from Santa and his Elves, before boarding a festive-themed heritage train ride. Meet our mischievous Chief Elf and the jolly man himself, Santa Claus, as they join you on a journey packed with entertainment, Christmas tunes, and festive fun. Capture the magic with plenty of photo opportunities, enjoy a hot drink and seasonal sweet treat, as well as a special gift from Santa.
The Canny Christmas Show - festive fun for younger families
Step into a black-and-white world of festive fun, where three cheeky Geordie elves create Christmas chaos in this interactive show designed especially for younger families. Join them on a whirlwind seasonal adventure packed with music, laughter, giggles and plenty of festive mischief - before Santa himself makes a very special appearance! After the show, stick around for festive photo opportunities with the characters and capture a magical Christmas memory.
Book now | The Canny Christmas Show | Discovery Museum, Newcastle | 12, 13, 19, 20 December | Tickets £12 | Suitable for families, particularly with kids aged 3–7 years, under 1s go free
The Great Festive Dinosaur Show – where the dinosaurs and exhibits come to life!
The dinosaurs are back and this time they've brought some friends! Don't miss this festive family show where Christmas magic brings museum exhibits to life. Join us after the show for a meet and greet and a photo opportunity with the dinosaurs and their friends.
Book now | The Great Festive Dinosaur Show | Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle | 19-23 December and 28-31 December | Tickets £12 | Suitable for families, particularly with kids aged 3–7 years
Festive Tales - a heartwarming experience with Father Christmas
Step into the magic of Christmas with Festive Tales – a heartwarming experience where children can meet Father Christmas and share their Christmas wishes, and take home an early gift. Each group session includes a cosy festive story time, the chance to have your photograph taken with Father Christmas, and an early Christmas gift for each child.
Book now | Festive Tales | Woodhorn Museum, Northumberland | 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 December | Tickets £10 per child (adults require Annual Pass) | Suitable for families
Festive experiences
Candlelit Tours of Arbeia - an evocative way to explore the Roman fort
As dusk settles and darkness falls, hear how the Romans lit up their homes at Arbeia, South Shields Roman Fort. These twilight candlelit tours are the perfect way to step back in time and reflect on this special time of year.
Winter Warmers - Heritage train rides between Christmas and New Year
Get wrapped up and drop in for a festive heritage train ride. After your journey, take some time to explore our museum and discover our displays telling the remarkable stories of railway pioneers George and Robert Stephenson and their impact on Tyneside.
Christmas crafts and markets
Needle Felting Workshop: Christmas Decorations
A friendly tutor will guide you through the process of creating your own Christmas decorations: perfect for celebrating the season. There will be plenty of opportunity to add your own embellishments to make something that's really characterful and unique.
Fun Floristry: Make a Christmas Wreath
Join us to design and make your own fresh Christmas wreath with qualified florist Hollie, of Button Rose Floral Design. All materials will be provided, including a range of different fresh foliage, ribbons, dried fruits, baubles and more to choose from, so you can personalise your wreath in the colours you like.
Hand Embroidery: Christmas Decorations
During this workshop you'll create your own hand embroidered Christmas decoration. It will be in a 3-inch hoop, ready to be displayed on your tree, hung on a wall, or gifted to someone special.
Christmas Craft Markets
Browse an array of stalls where local makers will be selling their handmade crafts at affordable prices. There will be a wide range of artforms represented and many opportunities to chat with friendly makers. There will also be a free Christmas Card making activity.
Watercolour Class: Christmas Bookmarks
This is a small and relaxed watercolour painting class, where you'll create two beautiful bookmarks. We'll guide you in creating one bookmark depicting winter berries and leaves; and another depicting a Christmas tree.
Fused Glass Christmas Decorations
Try your hand at fused glass in this workshop with Kimoci Glass. Under the guidance of a friendly tutor, you'll make some beautiful glass Christmas decorations using coloured Bullseye sheet glass, frits, powders or metal inclusions.
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