25th August 2025, By Kayleigh Fraser
A Bishop Auckland Christmas event that annually attracts tens of thousands of visitors will return this winter – here’s when.
Twinkling lights, decorated trees, delicious food and a sprinkle of festive spirit will be back in Bishop Auckland from December 4-7 – for the annual Christmas Town extravaganza.
In 2023, 35,000 people flocked to the town for some festive fun and last year more than 60 local traders pitched up to take part.
Bishop Auckland Christmas Town 2024 from above. (Image: Liam Dobinson)
Further details including road closures, full lists of attractions and more are expected to be announced in the coming months.
Announcing the news on social media, organisers said: “We’re so excited to announce that Christmas Town will return to Bishop Auckland this December!
“Expect all your favourites – twinkling lights, festive markets, the cosy tipi, live entertainment, and plenty of Christmas magic.
(Image: STUART BOULTON)
“This year, we’re shaking things up… instead of paying for each attraction individually, we’re introducing a brand-new unlimited wristband system – making it simpler, more affordable, and even more fun for families, friends, and festive explorers.
“Tickets go on sale next week – and trust us, you won’t want to miss it.
“Save the dates, gather your elves, and get ready to step back into the magic of Bishop Auckland’s Christmas Town 2025.”
Following the success of last year’s Christmas Town, Thomas Wales, managing director of Baccanalia, who created the town with Ben Tinkler, managing director of Bridge Creative, said they were both thrilled.
Thomas said in December 2024: “We have been doing this for four years, the first one we put together in just eight weeks. Now we have people coming from Teesside, Newcastle, and York.
“Here, there is the Aglow light trail, Christmas at the Palace… Bishop Auckland is becoming the Christmas capital of the North East.
“It is becoming a bit of a go-to destination.”
