| Where: | Durham starting Market Place and heading to Cathedral |
| When: | Saturday near 6th December |
| Time: | 2.30 Parade, 3pm Service |
This well-loved annual event is regarded by many as the start of the Christmas season in Durham, and a large procession of children bearing lanterns winds its way up the hill to Palace Green, led by the Salvation Army Band and local dignitaries. Literally hundreds of families take part, and on arrival at the Cathedral there is a short service dedicated to St Nicholas, the patron Saint of children, whose feast day falls on the 6th of the month and who is closely associated with Santa and present giving. The well established tradition is only stopped by pestilence, and takes place even when there is snow on the ground. It’s part of the city’s Christmas Festival and there are also entertainers around town, and Christmas Markets in the Market Place and on Palace Green. The Band perform favourite carols at intervals throughout the day in the Market Place, before the Parade in the afternoon.
Helpful Hints
In 2023 it was on Saturday December 2nd, with the Parade at 2.30. In some years the time may vary slightly so double-check before travelling. 2024 date is yet to be confirmed but likely to be Saturday 7th.
Lanterns may be reserved online in advance or bought on the day if stocks last (follow the link below for details).
Click here for the event website: https://durhamchristmasfestival.com
and Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/durhamchristmasfestival/
and here for the Band: https://www.facebook.com/p/Chester-le-Street-Corps-The-Salvation-Army-100080451301006/
Leave a Reply