Across the weekend of 22-23 November, Middlesbrough town centre will host its annual lights switch on, a Christmas parade with Santa and reindeers, and a free new light installation from the creators of Nightfall.

On Sunday 23 November, Middlesbrough will once again celebrate the start of the festive season with a magical Christmas parade.

The parade will take a route through the town centre, where crowds can gather to cheer on the colourful display of characters, including Frozen’s Elsa, Santa Claus and two of his favourite reindeer.

Community group heroes and local schools are also invited to take part in the parade.

On the same day as the Christmas Parade, a bumper lights switch on event will be held on Centre Square, with market stalls and a jam-packed stage programme including local dance acts and a pop party with your favourite family-friendly hits.

The stage programme will begin from 12.15pm, with the lights being switched on at 5pm and a festive party to follow.

Families can also visit Santa in his Centre Square grotto. Visits must be booked in advance via the Middlesbrough Box Office website, and children will receive a small gift from Santa.

In an exciting addition to the weekend, the organisers of Nightfall - Stellar Creates - is bringing a brand-new light installation to the town centre. Shine On, Boro is a magical light-filled celebration.

Visit various locations near Centre Square to enjoy mesmerising light installations and performances – all entirely free.

Cllr Philippa Storey, Middlesbrough’s Deputy Mayor and Executive member for Culture said the weekend would be a brilliant combination of the old and the new.

“I know how much families enjoyed the parade in the past so I’m thrilled it will return – reindeers included.

“Equally exciting is the news that Stellar Creates – the wonderful team behind Nightfall – are bringing a free light show to the town centre that promises to be captivating for people young and old. We’ve got a great line-up for Christmas – it should be a magical weekend.”

Rachel Willis, director at Stellar Creates, said: "We’re thrilled to bring Shine On, Boro to Centre Square as part of Middlesbrough Council's festive celebrations — a magical, light-filled celebration inspired by the dreams of a sleeping cat.

“It’s all about bringing people together to experience something joyful right in the heart of the town."

Shine On, Boro will run on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 November, including on the evening of the parade and lights switch on.

The Saturday evening session will provide a more peaceful setting for families seeking a quieter atmosphere for a festive event, avoiding the crowds expected for day of the Christmas parade and Lights Switch On.

Further details about Middlesbrough Christmas events, including the Christmas parade route, will be announced in due course.

• The Middlesbrough Christmas Parade takes place on Sunday 23 November from 2pm.
• The Middlesbrough Christmas Lights Switch On takes place on Sunday 23 November from 12-6pm, with a stage programme running from 12.15pm.
• Middlesbrough’s festive lights will be switched on at 5pm.
• Shine On, Boro runs on Saturday 22 November and Sunday 23 November from 4.30-9.30pm.
• Tickets to visit Santa’s grotto are £2.50 per child (0-15yrs) and must be booked in advance.