A joyful tale about difference, friendship and the power of creativity TEESSIDE WHERE TO GO WHATS ON COMPETITIONS MAGAZINE & WEBSITE THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD raring2go.co.uk WINTER 2024/25
2 raring2go.co.uk 3 Raring2go! Raring2go! Ho! Ho! Ho! ‘Tis the season to be jolly! Why wait for Santa, as we are dishing out FREE TICKETS to your favourite Pantomimes and many other events this Winter! Flip to pages 6 & 8 to ENTER & WIN! Join us on Instagram to WIN exclusive prizes! So, grab your phone, scan the QR code, and hit that follow button. Hello! We are thrilled to launch our second edition as the new editors and are excited to continue on this journey with you! Our mission is to bring you the latest news, updates, and insider tips on all the incredible family entertainment and excursions happening in our area. But we can't do this alone - we need your support! We believe in the power of community and collaboration, which is why we're reaching out to you. We are a dynamic platform where families can discover the best activities, events, and attractions our area has to offer. Whether it's a weekend adventure, a fun day out, or learning experiences, we are your go-to guide! Be the rst to know about exciting new excursions, exclusive discounts, special offers and win FREE family tickets to some of the most sought-after attractions in our area by subscribing to all our social channels and newsletter via www.raring2go.co.uk Become a part of the Raring2go! community. Share your experiences, recommendations, and photos with us by tagging us and getting featured on our social platforms. Let's create a space where we can connect, inspire, and support one another! Nadeem, Ayesha, Mikaail and Jibrael. teesdurham@raring2go.co.uk 07787 584878 /R2gTeesDurham 4 0333 344 2220
Infinite Tots Sessions at Infinite Air, Durham For ages 6 months to 5 years. Choose from Soft Play Only sessions, which includes access to the Soft Play area (including ball pit, mini trampolines & Peppa Pig Inflatable) or book our Full Access sessions to use the Trampoline Park & Soft Play Area. Soft Play Only - Tuesday to Friday from 9.30am (term time only). Weekends (and school holidays) from 10.15am. 2 Hour Full Access - Tuesday to Friday from 9.30am (term time only) For more information or to book, visit www. infiniteair.co.uk ARC Stockton Arts Centre, Stockton ARC Film Club - Every Sat at 10:15am Make every Saturday a family Film Club Day. Come to ARC and take part in our exciting Film Club. With your family, you can enjoy a fabulous introduction to the wonderful world of cinema. Join us for our weekly screenings of films chosen for our family audiences. Then take part in craft-related play activities designed by the amazing Kitchen Zoo, Known for their joyful, energetic theatre for young audiences and families, and now for fun film-related activities for Film Club audiences at ARC. arconline.co.uk 4 raring2go.co.uk 5 Raring2go! LEARN Raring2go! LEARN Little Nippers, Hopetown Darlington Fridays, 10.15am-11.45am Meet friends and make new ones at Little Nippers, Hopetown Darlington’s new weekly play group for kids aged 5 and under. Join us on Friday mornings for railway-themed real world role play, messy play, construction and make and take away activities. There’ll also be storytimes, play and learn experiences at North Road Station Museum and a whole host of multi-sensory indoor and outdoor experiences. You’ll even get time to play in Wagon Woods, our new outdoor-adventure play park, too. hopetowndarlington.co.uk Music Monsters, Yarm & Preston Farm New Beginner Classes on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays Music Monsters is an award-winning learnthrough-play piano programme for young children. Learn to play the piano through fun games, missions and challenges. Build confidence, learn to read and play music, and make friends through our weekly class programme. Regular performance opportunities and themed sessions are also available. Contact lauren@musicmonsters.co.uk to book a trial lesson. www.musicmonsters.co.uk/yarm For more ideas checkout the Clubs & Classes section of the Raring2go! website Outdoor Tots at Durham High School Outdoor Tots is a great way for your toddler to have fun, exploring the natural world in a safe and stimulating environment. It is an excellent opportunity for boys and girls aged 1-4 to spend some time exploring outdoors, every Tuesday morning during term time. Places are limited and booking is essential. Tickets are £4 per child. Additional siblings are £2 each. Book a place at dhsfg.org.uk Razz Tots Razz Tots is designed to improve social and motor skills and to provide a secure foundation for little one’s development. “Classes are structured on a new theme each half term, so the children can build and develop their skills” says Rebecca, Principal of Razzamataz Durham. “The class helps them to develop their speaking and listening skills, encourage positive group interaction and increase con dence, all whilst having fun!” To register your interest please email Rebecca at durham@razzamataz.co.uk. For more details visit: www.durham.razzamataz.co.uk NCT Durham Bumps and Babies Tues 10-11.30am £2-3 pay as you can. St Cuthbert's Church Hall, North End, Durham DH1 4NH Walk & Talk Thursdays 10.30-11.30am FREE Various locations please check the Facebook page @NCTDurham or website for details http://www.nct.org.uk/durham Little Dragons at the Oriental Museum, Durham A group for children under 5 and their families. Booking essential. Free entry. Wednesday mornings in the Museum. Packed full of exploring the museum galleries, fun craft activities, singing, games and stories. https://www.dur.ac.uk/oriental.museum/ For more ideas checkout the Clubs & Classes section of the Raring2go! website What’s On for Little Ones Durham page fp Sept 22 copy 2.qxp_Layout 1 09/09/2022 12:35 Page 1 We’re all part of it 2 November 2024 - 5 May 2025 A fascinating exhibition exploring the stories of children and young people of the past in County Durham | An alternative history of the county through the eyes of young people | Developed and co-curated with Durham Youth Council | Programme of regular workshops and activities. Free entry Find out more thestorydurham.org Mount Oswald, South Road, Durham DH1 3TQ Welcome to our County: The Children of Yesterday and Tomorrow
Raring2go! WHATS ON 6 raring2go.co.uk 7 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Gala Durham, Durham 21 Nov – 31 Dec– Beauty and the Beast Will Belle’s courage and kindness be enough to break the curse? Can love blossom where you least expect it? Expect plenty of laughs, thrills and fun in this magical reimagining of a timeless tale. Packed with dazzling costumes, songs, and of course, all your favourite panto moments – welcome to the Castle…of Fun! 3 Dec – 24 Dec– Breadcrumbs This brand new festive family show packed full of music, magic and puppetry from the producers of A Town Called Christmas and Tinsel celebrates how even the simplest story can become the wildest festive fairytale in the hands of the right storyteller! galadurham.co.uk Empire Consett, Durham 29 Nov – 31 Dec - Cinderella Packed full of adventure, fun, dazzling costumes, hit songs, audience participation, and all your favourite characters – Leah Bell and company return in 2024 to present the most magical fairy tale of them all – Cinderella. You’ll really have a ball! empireconsett.co.uk Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Durham 28 Nov – 1 Dec – Breadcrumbs This brand new festive family show packed full of music, magic and puppetry from the producers of A Town Called Christmas and Tinsel celebrates how even the simplest story can become the wildest festive fairytale in the hands of the right storyteller! 7 Dec – 8 Dec - Cinderella Join us as we follow the downtrodden Cinders break free to discover new love in the form of a dashing Prince Charming and overcome the tomfoolery of her Ugly Sisters (who just love the boos too much!) – all with the help of her foolhardy friend Buttons, (YAY!) and her Fairy Godmother of course! bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk ARC Stockton Arts Centre, Stockton 3-24 Dec – The Light Princess The Princess floats. She always has. The Queen worries about keeping her little girl’s feet on the ground but all the Princess wants is to fly free. When the Princess meets Orla, a little girl with big ideas, the two recognise a spark in one another – the unstoppable desire for change. Together they melt the heart of a frozen kingdom. 21 Dec - Club Groovy: Christmas Sparklefest Join Club Groovy for a fantastically festive end to the season at their magical Sparklefest Christmas party! Full of Christmas hits, glitter, and grooviness! arconline.co.uk For more events checkout the ‘What’s On’ and Places2go sections of the Raring2go! website raring2go.co.uk What's on at the Theatre Town Hall Theatre, Hartlepool 10 Dec - 28 Dec - Peter Pan and the Lost Boys Get ready to join Peter and the lost boys as they fight to defend Neverland against the dastardly Captain Hook! So get ready to hiss, boo and sing along! As Peter Pan takes flight, what could possibly go wrong? culturehartlepool.com Gala Durham 23 Nov - 6 Jan - Cinderella A new take on the oldest fairy tale of all time, full of magic and excitement, strange characters and talking animals. New twists and magical turns in this retelling of one of the greatest stories ever told! 5 Dec - 24 Dec - Tinsel Tinsel is the tale of one magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree! He can sing, dance, and wear a sparkly tiara as well as anyone else can. galadurham.co.uk Empire Consett 1 Dec - 31 Dec - Jack and the Beanstalk Join Jack, Dame Tilly Trot, Lord Mayor Tommy Tomato, Big Mac the Cow, Cowella Daville and a whole host of other characters on an adventure packed full of fun, hit songs, dazzling costumes, audience participation and more, in our GIANT panto that’s Fe-Fi-Fo-FUN! empireconsett.co.uk Bishop Auckland Town Hall 8 - 10 Dec - Aladdin Join a whole host of hilarious and colourful characters on an enchanted journey of magic and mysticism as the greatest panto of them all flies into Bishop Auckland this Christmas… Aladdin! 30 Nov - 3 Dec - Tinsel Tinsel is the tale of one magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree! He can sing, dance, and wear a sparkly tiara as well as anyone else can. bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk Darlington Hippodrome 8-31 Dec Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don't miss the fairest pantomime of them all! darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk The Hullabaloo, Darlington 18 Nov - Little Murmur Based on the true story of one child's struggle with letters and words. Little Murmur is a dance theatre show about facing challenges and overcoming the odds. An honest and funny tale about the trial and tribulations of seeing things differently. 6 - 24 Dec - Snow Mouse An enchanting winter's tale for the very young. Come and join two new friends on their adventures in a magical forest full of play, puppetry and music! theatrehullabaloo.org.uk WIN TICKETS Lots of tickets to be won! Enter on the Raring2go! website, look out for the win tickets symbol WIN TICKETS What's on at the Theatre Town Hall Theatre, Hartlepool 10 Dec - 28 Dec - Peter Pan and the Lost Boys Get ready to join Peter and the lost boys as they fight to defend Neverland against the dastardly Captain Hook! So get ready to hiss, boo and sing along! As Peter Pan takes flight, what could possibly go wrong? culturehartlepool.com Gala Durham 23 Nov - 6 Jan - Cinderella A new take on the oldest fairy tale of all time, full of magic and excitement, strange characters and talking animals. New twists and magical turns in this retelling of one of the greatest stories ever told! 5 Dec - 24 Dec - Tinsel Tinsel is the tale of one magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree! He can sing, dance, and wear a sparkly tiara as well as anyone else can. galadurham.co.uk Empire Consett 1 Dec - 31 Dec - Jack and the Beanstalk Join Jack, Dame Tilly Trot, Lord Mayor Tommy Tomato, Big Mac the Cow, Cowella Daville and a whole host of other characters on an adventure packed full of fun, hit songs, dazzling costumes, audience participation and more, in our GIANT panto that’s Fe-Fi-Fo-FUN! empireconsett.co.uk Bishop Auckland Town Hall 8 - 10 Dec - Aladdin Join a whole host of hilarious and colourful characters on an enchanted journey of magic and mysticism as the greatest panto of them all flies into Bishop Auckland this Christmas… Aladdin! 30 Nov - 3 Dec - Tinsel Tinsel is the tale of one magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree! He can sing, dance, and wear a sparkly tiara as well as anyone else can. bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk Darlington Hippodrome 8-31 Dec Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don't miss the fairest pantomime of them all! darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk The Hullabaloo, Darlington 18 Nov - Little Murmur Based on the true story of one child's struggle with letters and words. Little Murmur is a dance theatre show about facing challenges and overcoming the odds. An honest and funny tale about the trial and tribulations of seeing things differently. 6 - 24 Dec - Snow Mouse An enchanting winter's tale for the very young. Come and join two new friends on their adventures in a magical forest full of play, puppetry and music! theatrehullabaloo.org.uk WIN TICKETS Lots of tickets to be won! Enter on the Raring2go! website, look out for the win tickets symbol WIN TICKETS Tuesday 3 - Tuesday 24 December www.arconline.co.uk | Stockton TS18 1LL 01642 525199 | box.office@arconline.co.uk
8 raring2go.co.uk 9 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON Forum Theatre, Billingham 4 Dec – 4 Jan - Cinderella Packed with all of the traditional ingredients Billingham audiences expect, our spectacular family pantomime Cinderella features spellbinding effects, dazzling costumes, toe-tapping musical numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses. Town Hall Theatre, Hartlepool 11 Dec - 29 Dec – Aladdin and the Hartlepool Monkey Get ready to join Aladdin, Jasmine, the lovable Genie and the mischievous Hartlepool Monkey as they navigate through exciting escapades and discover the true power of love and friendship. culturehartlepool.com The Hullabaloo, Darlington 14 Nov – 16 Nov - Chiffonnade Somewhere between dream and reality, full of emotions, and as colourful as life itself, Chiffonnade is about growing up, blossoming, releasing oneself from the chrysalis, discovering the world and flying until eventually, the dancer finds her freedom in the most extraordinary way you can imagine...Winner of the prize for the best dance performance at the FETEN Festival, Spain, 2024, this beautiful dance performance isn’t to be missed! 3 Dec – 24 Dec – Cloud Man Claude has always had his head in the clouds. He is a cloud expert and all of his life he has dreamt of seeing a Cloud Man – an extremely rare creature who lives a quiet life high up in the sky. Audiences will follow the clues to the very top of Cloud Mountain where the views are always surprising. If you are lucky, you may see something very special indeed. This truly enchanting puppetry show is certain to create special memories for families and friends this Christmas. theatrehullabaloo.org.uk Princess Alexandra Auditorium, Yarm 12 – 24 Dec Snow White Will the wicked Queen Horibella manage to win the hand of Prince Charming? Will Snow White find the secret cottage? Will everyone live happily ever after? A brand new production bursting with dazzling costumes, hilarious comedy, sensational singing, beautiful scenery and the coolest Magnificent Seven ever! 14-15 Dec Santa and the Race to Save Christmas Crisis hits the North Pole, what is Santa going to do? How will he deliver everyone’s presents? Will Santa and the gang manage to find a solution in order for the sleigh to set off in time for Christmas eve? Will everyone live happily after? thepaaonline.org For more events checkout the ‘What’s On’ and Places2go sections of the Raring2go! website raring2go.co.uk What's on at the Theatre Town Hall Theatre, Hartlepool 10 Dec - 28 Dec - Peter Pan and the Lost Boys Get ready to join Peter and the lost boys as they fight to defend Neverland against the dastardly Captain Hook! So get ready to hiss, boo and sing along! As Peter Pan takes flight, what could possibly go wrong? culturehartlepool.com Gala Durham 23 Nov - 6 Jan - Cinderella A new take on the oldest fairy tale of all time, full of magic and excitement, strange characters and talking animals. New twists and magical turns in this retelling of one of the greatest stories ever told! 5 Dec - 24 Dec - Tinsel Tinsel is the tale of one magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree! He can sing, dance, and wear a sparkly tiara as well as anyone else can. galadurham.co.uk Empire Consett 1 Dec - 31 Dec - Jack and the Beanstalk Join Jack, Dame Tilly Trot, Lord Mayor Tommy Tomato, Big Mac the Cow, Cowella Daville and a whole host of other characters on an adventure packed full of fun, hit songs, dazzling costumes, audience participation and more, in our GIANT panto that’s Fe-Fi-Fo-FUN! empireconsett.co.uk Bishop Auckland Town Hall 8 - 10 Dec - Aladdin Join a whole host of hilarious and colourful characters on an enchanted journey of magic and mysticism as the greatest panto of them all flies into Bishop Auckland this Christmas… Aladdin! 30 Nov - 3 Dec - Tinsel Tinsel is the tale of one magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree! He can sing, dance, and wear a sparkly tiara as well as anyone else can. bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk Darlington Hippodrome 8-31 Dec Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don't miss the fairest pantomime of them all! darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk The Hullabaloo, Darlington 18 Nov - Little Murmur Based on the true story of one child's struggle with letters and words. Little Murmur is a dance theatre show about facing challenges and overcoming the odds. An honest and funny tale about the trial and tribulations of seeing things differently. 6 - 24 Dec - Snow Mouse An enchanting winter's tale for the very young. Come and join two new friends on their adventures in a magical forest full of play, puppetry and music! theatrehullabaloo.org.uk WIN TICKETS Lots of tickets to be won! Enter on the Raring2go! website, look out for the win tickets symbol WIN TICKETS 3 - 24 December 2024 Constellation Points presents: “A joy to behold!” The Herald 3+ years • Tickets £10 - book now! For performance times & more information visit: theatrehullabaloo.org.uk BOX OFFICE: 01325 405 405 e Theatre boys as they e dastardly boo and what could all time, e characters magical eatest boy who he and wear a an. stalk or Tommy Daville and an gs, dazzling d more, in N! lourful of magic of them all mas… Darlington Hippodrome 8-31 Dec Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don't miss the fairest pantomime of them all! darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk The Hullabaloo, Darlington 18 Nov - Little Murmur Based on the true story of one child's struggle with letters and words. Little Murmur is a dance theatre show about facing challenges and overcoming the odds. An honest and funny tale about the trial and tribulations of seeing things differently. 6 - 24 Dec - Snow Mouse An enchanting winter's tale for the very young. Come and join two new friends on their adventures in a magical forest full of play, puppetry and music! theatrehullabaloo.org.uk WIN TICKETS Raring2go! website, look out for the win tickets symbol TICKETS e Theatre boys as they e dastardly boo and what could all time, e characters magical eatest boy who he and wear a an. stalk or Tommy Daville and n gs, dazzling d more, in N! ourful of magic of them all mas… boy who he and wear a an. Darlington Hippodrome 8-31 Dec Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don't miss the fairest pantomime of them all! darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk The Hullabaloo, Darlington 18 Nov - Little Murmur Based on the true story of one child's struggle with letters and words. Little Murmur is a dance theatre show about facing challenges and overcoming the odds. An honest and funny tale about the trial and tribulations of seeing things differently. 6 - 24 Dec - Snow Mouse An enchanting winter's tale for the very young. Come and join two new friends on their adventures in a magical forest full of play, puppetry and music! theatrehullabaloo.org.uk WIN TICKETS aring2go! website, look out for the win tickets symbol TICKETS e Theatre boys as they e dastardly boo and what could all time, e characters magical eatest boy who Darlington Hippodrome 8-31 Dec Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don't miss the fairest pantomime of them all! darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk The Hullabaloo, Darlington 18 Nov - Little Murmur Based on the true story of one child's struggle with letters and words. Little Murmur is a dance theatre show about facing challenges and overcoming the odds. An honest and funny tale about the trial and tribulations of seeing things differently. 6 - 24 Dec - Snow Mouse An enchanting winter's tale for the very young. Come and join two new friends on their adventures in a magical forest full of play, WIN TICKETS Raring2go! website, look out for the win tickets symbol TICKETS What's on at the Theatre Town Hall Theatre, Hartlepool 10 Dec - 28 Dec - Peter Pan and the Lost Boys Get ready to join Peter and the lost boys as they fight to defend Neverland against the dastardly Captain Hook! So get ready to hiss, boo and sing along! As Peter Pan takes flight, what could possibly go wrong? culturehartlepool.com Gala Durham 23 Nov - 6 Jan - Cinderella A new take on the oldest fairy tale of all time, full of magic and excitement, strange characters and talking animals. New twists and magical turns in this retelling of one of the greatest stories ever told! 5 Dec - 24 Dec - Tinsel Tinsel is the tale of one magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree! He can sing, dance, and wear a sparkly tiara as well as anyone else can. galadurham.co.uk Empire Consett 1 Dec - 31 Dec - Jack and the Beanstalk Join Jack, Dame Tilly Trot, Lord Mayor Tommy Tomato, Big Mac the Cow, Cowella Daville and a whole host of other characters on an adventure packed full of fun, hit songs, dazzling costumes, audience participation and more, in our GIANT panto that’s Fe-Fi-Fo-FUN! empireconsett.co.uk Bishop Auckland Town Hall 8 - 10 Dec - Aladdin Join a whole host of hilarious and colourful characters on an enchanted journey of magic and mysticism as the greatest panto of them all flies into Bishop Auckland this Christmas… Aladdin! 30 Nov - 3 Dec - Tinsel Tinsel is the tale of one magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree! He can sing, dance, and wear a sparkly tiara as well as anyone else can. bishopaucklandtownhall.org.uk Darlington Hippodrome 8-31 Dec Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mirror, mirror, on the wall, don't miss the fairest pantomime of them all! darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk The Hullabaloo, Darlington 18 Nov - Little Murmur Based on the true story of one child's struggle with letters and words. Little Murmur is a dance theatre show about facing challenges and overcoming the odds. An honest and funny tale about the trial and tribulations of seeing things differently. 6 - 24 Dec - Snow Mouse An enchanting winter's tale for the very young. Come and join two new friends on their adventures in a magical forest full of play, puppetry and music! theatrehullabaloo.org.uk WIN TICKETS Lots of tickets to be won! Enter on the Raring2go! website, look out for the win tickets symbol WIN TICKETS Princess Alexandra Auditorium, Yarm Book today: www.thepaaonline.org 01642 792587 Snow White Panto 12th December - 24th December Santa and the Race to Save Christmas - 14th December and 15th December 03000 266 600 galadurham.co.uk Thursday 21 November to Tuesday 31 December Tickets from £10
10 raring2go.co.uk 11 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON WIN 2 FREE TICKETS Proudly sponsored by INCLUDES A FREE SKATE COMPETITION SCAN TO ENTER Which of Santa’s reindeers has a red nose? (A) Rudolph (B) Dancer (C) Vixen A trip to the theatre holds a truly unique and invaluable appeal for children, offering an enriching experience that far surpasses the passive nature of watching television. The live, interactive nature of theatre provides a great number of educational, emotional and dare we say developmental advantages that TV often struggles to replicate or come close to. Firstly, theatre is a sensory feast that engages multiple senses simultaneously. Children see the vibrant costumes, hear the live music, soak up the dialogue and feel the excitement in the air. This multisensory experience not only captivates their attention but it also acts to enhance their overall understanding and appreciation of the performance. In contrast, television, though visually stimulating, lacks the immediacy and immersive quality of a live theatre production. Signifiicangtly, attending a live performance encourages great social skills and etiquette in children. The theatre setting requires them to be attentive, considerate of others and follow certain behavioral norms and each of these contribute to the development of patience and respect. Interacting with fellow audience members and responding to the performers in real-time enhances their ability to engage in a shared cultural experience. It teaches them the importance of live social interaction, a skill that never demands enough emphasis in a world today that is dominated by screens. Theatre also sparks children's imagination and creativity in a way that television cannot. Witnessing live actors, set changes, and the transformation of characters on stage further encourages a deeper level of imaginative thinking. Children are prompted to fill in the gaps with their own interpretations, creating critical thinking skills and a sense of creativity that goes far beyond passive consumption. Additionally, live theatre provides a sense of connection and community. Shared laughter, gasps of surprise and applause create a more collective experience that unites people and brings them together. This shared sense of enjoyment and emotional engagement is a powerful aspect of theatre, promoting a sense of belonging and shared culture. While television has its merits, a family trip to the theatre offers a far more dynamic, interactive, and multi-sensory experience that contributes significantly to a child's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The magic of live performances ‘the smell of the greasepaint and the roar of the crowd’ has the potential to ignite a lifelong love for the arts and a deeper understanding of the world around them. With screens already dominating our lives in so many ways, isn’t it a nice thought that we still have a place we can go where we can excape and watch real drama, real comedy and real tragedy unfold. The Thrill of The Theatre: The smell of the greasepaint, the roar of the crowd Delivered by FROM THURSDAY 28 NOVEMBER STOCKTON HIGH STREET To view the full Stockton Sparkles offer visit www.teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/stockton-sparkles LAUNCH OF STOCKTON SPARKLES Thursday 28 November From 5pm, light switch-on 6.30pm STORIES WITH SANTA Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December CHRISTMAS MARKET Friday 6 - Sunday 8 December VICTORIAN FAIR Friday 6 - Sunday 8 December LANTERN PARADE Sunday 8 December 4pm Christmas Market Stories with Santa Launch of Stockton Sparkles Lantern Parade
12 raring2go.co.uk 13 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON Winter Wonderland at Adventure Valley Adventure Valley, Durham, 23 Nov - 24 Dec Ride the Winter Valley Express, visit Claus’s Candy sweet shop!, make a bag of reindeer food to sprinkle for Rudolph and his gang on Christmas Eve. A BRAND NEW Christmas show. Decorate a festive Gingerbread Biscuit with Mrs Claus. Enjoy ride-on animals & bounce high on the huge winter inflatable. Meet Santa and visit his Toy Shop to choose your own gift – Babies & 1 year old’s will be able to participate in all activities and will receive an age-appropriate wrapped gift from Santa Claus. adventurevalley.co.uk AGLOW 22 Nov - 31 Dec (excluding Christmas Day), Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland Auckland Castle’s dazzling light trail AGLOW will illuminate the skies of Bishop Auckland this Christmas. AGLOW promises to be one of the most spectacular Christmas light trails in the North East, featuring 22 incredible illuminations including the tallest Christmas tree in the North of England and the country’s longest outdoor light tunnel. Family tickets available and pre-booking is recommended. aucklandproject.org Durham Christmas Festival Durham, 6 - 8 Dec Following on from the success of previous years’ Durham Christmas Festival, the city is preparing to welcome visitors for this popular threeday event once again. Get ready to step into Christmas from the 6th to the 8th of December at Durham’s annual festival, where the city centre gets transformed into a magical wonderland. With shopping galore across three sites, festive entertainment and an enchanting children’s lantern parade, there’s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit. Over the course of the three days, Durham city centre welcomes thousands of visitors from all over the UK, with hundreds of independent businesses coming together for a shopping experience like no other. durhamchristmasfestival.com Christmas Festive Fun at Durham Cathedral Durham Cathedral, selected dates. Build excitement for the festive season at Durham Cathedral. Join the Children’s Lantern Procession which arrives at the cathedral for the St Nicholas’ Service where we sing carols, 7 December. See the huge tree lit and the North-East inspired nativity scene in the Blessing of the Crib and Lighting of the Tree service, 15 December. Grab a free family activity leaflet filled with puzzles, colouring and the Christmas story, from mid-November. Suitable for all ages. For details and booking see the cathedral’s website. durhamcathedral.co.uk Enchanted Christmas Trail Raby Castle, 16 Nov – 24 Dec Step into a world of wonder and magic this holiday season at The Plotters’ Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail at Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, this captivating trail promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the scent of pine will transport you to a world where Christmas magic comes alive. New experiences include Meeting Mr and Mrs Claus in the Yuletide Yurt and Christmas in the Entrance Hall. raby.co.uk Christmas at Newham Grange 30 Nov – 24 Dec,10am - 4pm (on selected dates), Newham Grange Farm Enjoy loads of festive fun at Newham Grange Farm this Christmas. Featuring a family-friendly trail, Christmas characters and carol singing with the elves, drop-in crafts, a mini pantomime and reindeer food to take home for the big day. Optional extras include visiting Santa in his stables, breakfast and story time with Mrs Claus, decorating cookies with Santa’s head elf. newhamgrangefarm.co.uk For more events checkout the ‘What’s On’ and Places2go sections of the Raring2go! website raring2go.co.uk Ideas from Santa’s Diary and Festive Family Fun! Christmas in Middlesbrough 18 Nov - A Festive Night at the Movies, Centre Square, 5pm - 7pm Wrap up warm, bring a blanket or deck chair and cosy up to watch a truly classic festive film outdoors on the big screen in Centre Square. There’s also some fairground rides for little ones and of course, plenty of festive cheer! Dressing up in your best Christmas costume is welcomed – and don’t forget those gloves and scarves. The event is FREE and all ages are welcome. Please note it is encouraged to bring your own portable chairs as limited seating is provided; cover from the weather is not provided. Check out wearemiddlesbrough.com to see which film will be shown on the big screen. 19 Nov - Christmas Lights Switch On with BBC Tees, Centre Square, 12pm - 7.00pm (lights turned on at 5.30pm) Join the stars from Middlesbrough Theatre's pantomime including Amelia Lily and Philip Green plus some very special guests as they switch on Middlesbrough’s Christmas lights. The FREE event will feature a huge ‘Big Sing’ with choirs and community groups from across Middlesbrough who will lead the crowd in a mammoth sing-along to some of the best loved Christmas tunes. Channel your inner Slade or Mariah and join BBC Tees presenter Gary Philipson for a fun-filled evening that will get everyone in the festive spirit. Plus don’t miss the street theatre, festive food and gift stalls and the Classical Christmas Café in Middlesbrough Town Hall. 19 Nov - 2 Jan - Walking with The Snowman Trail, Middlesbrough Town Centre Everyone’s favourite giant snowmen are returning to venues across the town centre over the festive period. 2 - 3 Dec - Christmas Extravaganza at the Dorman Museum, 10am - 4pm Help Santa’s elves get ready for Christmas at the big Christmas Extravaganza! Activities include a visit to Elf Town, a festive VR ride, a gingerbread trail, arts and crafts and the chance to spot Santa as he walks the museum galleries. £5 per child. wearemiddlesbrough.com 2 - 24 Dec, Weekends 10am - 4pm, plus late night Wed 20 Dec, 4 - 8pm, Newham Grange Farm Enjoy loads of festive fun at Newham Grange Farm this Christmas. Featuring a family-friendly trail, Christmas characters and carol singing with the elves, drop-in crafts, a mini pantomime and free reindeer food to take home for the big day. Optional extras include visiting Santa in his stables, breakfast and story time with Mrs Claus, decorating cookies with Mother Ginger and Build a Teddy workshop. newhamgrangefarm.co.uk 16 Dec - Orange Pip Market Festive Edition, Middlesbrough Town Hall, 11am - 6pm Enjoy a Merry Pipmas with pop-up shops, foodie delights and festive fizz! 29 Dec - Kidz Sound – Christmas Concert at Middlesbrough Town Hall, 2pm A fantastic live show featuring four hours of music from the biggest names in pop, performed by the best tribute artists. Dance, sing and party to Pink, Little Mix, Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande! Also includes additional entertainment, refreshments, a photo booth, sweet stalls and lots more family fun! Tickets: £22 (adults), £17 (child under 16) including booking fee. middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk Christmas at NT Ormesby Hall The scene is set for one and all for a panto themed Christmas at Ormesby Hall. The rooms will be decorated with sparkling lights and pantomime inspired decorations, such as Cinderella, Snow Queen and Aladdin. Normal admission applies. nationaltrust.org.uk Christmas Guide YOUR PASSPORT TO A WINTER WONDERLAND BOOK NOW! Let's make this Christmas season sparkle brighter than ever. Adventure Valley’s Winter Wonderland is your passport to a Christmas that you will never forget! www.adventurevalley.co.uk
14 raring2go.co.uk 15 Raring2go! WHATS ON Raring2go! Santa’s Grotto Billingham Forum - 25 Nov onwards Experience the magic of Christmas by bringing your loved ones to see Santa and his elves in the festive grotto and wintery themed garden. Speak with Santa and grab a few photographs together then head into the ice arena for a family ice skating session under a blanket of twinkling fairy lights with a festive soundtrack. All for only £10 per child - includes a visit to Santa’s Grotto, a free junior ice-skating voucher & skate hire, a selection box and a postcard from Santa and his elves! festiveforum.co.uk Christmas at The Carriage Works Hope Town Darlington - 26 Nov – 31 Dec It’s almost midnight on Christmas eve and Santa has steamed into Hopetown Darlington on Locomotion Number 1. He’s taking a quick rest before he sets off all around the world delivering presents. There’s just one problem – his reindeer have escaped! Can you look for them so they can pull his sleigh? The historic Carriage Works has been transformed into a fantastical forest of magical trees and woodland creatures – and of course, Santa’s missing reindeer. Take a wondrous wintery walk, hunt for clues and find all the reindeer so Santa can get on his way for his most important journey from Christmas eve into Christmas day. Booking online in advance recommended. hopetowndarlington.co.uk Magical winter moments Forestry England, Dalby Forest With over 8,500 acres of stunning scenery, tail wag worthy adventures and Gruffalo fun. Dalby Forest is the perfect location for a winter’s day out! Head through the frosty forest to discover sculptures of the Gruffalo and his friends. Or perhaps bring your dog along for a cracking day out with Wallace & Gromit on the new Forest Walkies trail. Grabbing an activity pack full of goodies for you and your pooch before you head out onto the trails!. forestryengland.uk/dalby-forest Experience Christmas in the North York Moors North York Moors Celebrate the festive season in the stunning North York Moors, from November to January, with a host of magical events and activities throughout the National Park! Throughout November and December, Danby Lodge will also host festive markets, offering unique gifts, local crafts, and seasonal treats. Families can participate in hands-on workshops, creating their own decorations and holiday goodies, from wreath and wire decoration crafting to Christmas terrarium making workshops, there’s lots on offer. This enchanting time of year transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, making it the perfect destination for families seeking festive fun. northyorkmoors.org.uk Stockton Sparkles returns this November! Stockton on Tees, High Street Pop down to Stockton High Street for festive fun and entertainment as Stockton Sparkles returns for another year. Join us on Thursday 28 November for the launch of Stockton Sparkles from 5pm, with an evening full of live music and entertainment, hot food and drinks, and the moment everyone has been waiting for: the Christmas light switch-on.This year’s highlights also include: Stories with Santa, Christmas Market, Victorian Fair and Lantern Parade. teesvalley-ca.gov.uk/stockton-sparkles Please do check all event details online as some events need prebooking. For more events checkout the ‘What’s On’ and Places2go sections of the Raring2go! website raring2go.co.uk Ideas from Santa’s Diary and Festive Family Fun! Christmas in Middlesbrough 18 Nov - A Festive Night at the Movies, Centre Square, 5pm - 7pm Wrap up warm, bring a blanket or deck chair and cosy up to watch a truly classic festive film outdoors on the big screen in Centre Square. There’s also some fairground rides for little ones and of course, plenty of festive cheer! Dressing up in your best Christmas costume is welcomed – and don’t forget those gloves and scarves. The event is FREE and all ages are welcome. Please note it is encouraged to bring your own portable chairs as limited seating is provided; cover from the weather is not provided. Check out wearemiddlesbrough.com to see which film will be shown on the big screen. 19 Nov - Christmas Lights Switch On with BBC Tees, Centre Square, 12pm - 7.00pm (lights turned on at 5.30pm) Join the stars from Middlesbrough Theatre's pantomime including Amelia Lily and Philip Green plus some very special guests as they switch on Middlesbrough’s Christmas lights. The FREE event will feature a huge ‘Big Sing’ with choirs and community groups from across Middlesbrough who will lead the crowd in a mammoth sing-along to some of the best loved Christmas tunes. Channel your inner Slade or Mariah and join BBC Tees presenter Gary Philipson for a fun-filled evening that will get everyone in the festive spirit. Plus don’t miss the street theatre, festive food and gift stalls and the Classical Christmas Café in Middlesbrough Town Hall. 19 Nov - 2 Jan - Walking with The Snowman Trail, Middlesbrough Town Centre Everyone’s favourite giant snowmen are returning to venues across the town centre over the festive period. 2 - 3 Dec - Christmas Extravaganza at the Dorman Museum, 10am - 4pm Help Santa’s elves get ready for Christmas at the big Christmas Extravaganza! Activities include a visit to Elf Town, a festive VR ride, a gingerbread trail, arts and crafts and the chance to spot Santa as he walks the museum galleries. £5 per child. wearemiddlesbrough.com 2 - 24 Dec, Weekends 10am - 4pm, plus late night Wed 20 Dec, 4 - 8pm, Newham Grange Farm Enjoy loads of festive fun at Newham Grange Farm this Christmas. Featuring a family-friendly trail, Christmas characters and carol singing with the elves, drop-in crafts, a mini pantomime and free reindeer food to take home for the big day. Optional extras include visiting Santa in his stables, breakfast and story time with Mrs Claus, decorating cookies with Mother Ginger and Build a Teddy workshop. newhamgrangefarm.co.uk 16 Dec - Orange Pip Market Festive Edition, Middlesbrough Town Hall, 11am - 6pm Enjoy a Merry Pipmas with pop-up shops, foodie delights and festive fizz! 29 Dec - Kidz Sound – Christmas Concert at Middlesbrough Town Hall, 2pm A fantastic live show featuring four hours of music from the biggest names in pop, performed by the best tribute artists. Dance, sing and party to Pink, Little Mix, Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande! Also includes additional entertainment, refreshments, a photo booth, sweet stalls and lots more family fun! Tickets: £22 (adults), £17 (child under 16) including booking fee. middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk Christmas at NT Ormesby Hall The scene is set for one and all for a panto themed Christmas at Ormesby Hall. The rooms will be decorated with sparkling lights and pantomime inspired decorations, such as Cinderella, Snow Queen and Aladdin. Normal admission applies. nationaltrust.org.uk Christmas Guide Fun festive activities throughout the season See a full list of events in early 2025 © Orillo Wykeham Way, Coulby Newham, M’bro. TS8 0TG • Tel: 01642 515729 FESTIVE FARM - Christmas at Newham Grange ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES Can ONLY be booked with a ticket to the Festive Farm • Santa’s Grotto (£9.50 per child, gift included) • Breakfast & Story with Mrs Claus (£5.50 per person - adult & child each require ticket. Small gift for child included) • Afternoon Tea with Santa’s Head Elf & Cookie Decorating (£12 each adult and child for Afternoon Tea, inc. cookie decorating for children) Festive hot food and drinks available at the cafe! Newham G r ang e FARM BOOk NOw! newhamgrangefarm.co.uk Join us in our winter wonderland and see the festive light displays, join in carol signing with Mrs Claus, Mrs Ginger and their elves, try festive crafts and complete the Christmas trail! £9.50 per person • Under 2s free • Annual pass holders £4.50 Sat 30 Nov & Sun 1 Dec • Sat 7 & Sun 8 Dec Sat 14 & 15 Sun Dec • Sat 21 - Tue 24 Dec 10am-4pm (last admission 2.30pm)
16 raring2go.co.uk 17 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON Sing-along & Skate! Meet the Princesses Fancy Dress Live DJ Face Painting Snow Machines BOOK ONLINE FORUMICEARENA.CO.UK NORMAL PRICES APPLY INCLUDES FREE ICE SKATE! For Santa’s Grotto opening times visit Daily family public skate sessions UNDER 3’S SKATE FREE THE AREA’S LEADING & BEST VALUE CLIMBING CENTRE GOCLIMB.CO.UK Only £10.25 - book online WE ALSO OFFER GREAT VALUE BIRTHDAY PARTIES teesactive.co.uk UNDER 3’S GO FREE @ Billingham Forum, Stockton Splash Thornaby Pool or IB Leisure INFLATABLES, FLOATS, FLUMES, WAVES & TODDLER POOLS BOOK NOW BOOK NOW
Plan your visit www.durhamcathedral.co.uk Coming up this festive season: • Join the Children's Lantern Procession which arrives at the cathedral for the St Nicholas' Service where we sing carols, 7 December • See the huge tree lit and the North East inspired nativity scene in the Blessing of the Crib and Lighting of the Tree service, 15 December • Grab a free family activity lled with puzzles, colouring and the Christmas story, throughout December Registered Charity Number: 1205971 Christmas at Durham Cathedral 18 raring2go.co.uk 19 Raring2go! PLACES2GO Raring2go! WHATS ON ANSWERS: 1: The Grinch - 2: Tintin - 3: Troy 4: Pharaoh - 5: Toy Story - 6: Alvin and the Chipmunks 7: A - 8: Litmus paper- 9: Puck - 10: Cycling 11: Madrid - 12: The Mersey LITERATURE 1 Who stole Christmas in a Dr Seuss book? 2 Who has a dog called Snowy and is friends with Captain Haddock? HISTORY AND POLITICS 3 Which city did the ancient Greeks by legend besiege for 10 years? 4 What title was given to the rulers of Ancient Egypt? ENTERTAINMENT 5 Sheriff Woody Pride and Buzz Lightyear are major characters in which series of films? 6 Which film had a 2009 follow-up described as “The Squeakquel”? SCIENCE AND NATURE 7 Which is the only vowel not on the top row of a computer keyboard? 8 What turns red in the presence of acid and blue in the presence of alkali? SPORT AND LEISURE 9 What is the object hit by the players in ice hockey called? 10 Which sport takes place in a velodrome? GEOGRAPHY AND TRAVEL 11 What is the capital city of Spain? 12 Liverpool lies on which river? Answers at the bottom of the page. No cheating. THE
20 raring2go.co.uk 21 Raring2go! LEARN Raring2go! LEARN Overcoming reading challenges with your children requires patience, creativity, and a supportive approach that recognises and addresses individual needs. Children may encounter various hurdles on their journey to literacy and it's crucial for parents and caregivers to adapt strategies that foster a positive reading experience. Firstly, identifying and addressing specific reading difficulties is essential. Whether a child struggles with decoding certain words, comprehension, or maintaining their focus, pinpointing the challenges allows for a targeted intervention. Tailoring the reading activities to the child's level of proficiency ensures that the material is appropriately challenging without causing frustration. Creating a supportive and encouraging environment is key to overcoming reading challenges. Positive reinforcement, praise for effort and celebrating small victories contribute to building a child's confidence and motivation. Patience is crucial; allowing children the time they need to progress at their own pace creates a deep sense of accomplishment and a more positive attitude towards reading. Incorporating a variety of reading can also be beneficial. Offering a mix of fiction and non-fiction books, graphic novels or audio books can provide diverse options that cater to different interests and learning styles. Interactive reading, asking open-ended questions, discussing the story, or relating it to the child's experiences, engages them in a way that enhances comprehension and critical thinking. Utilising technology can be a valuable tool in overcoming reading challenges. Educational apps and online resources designed to support literacy development offer a great interactive and engaging experience. These resources can act to supplement traditional reading methods and provide additional practice in a format that may appeal to more tech-savvy children. Above all, encouraging a love for reading is paramount. Making reading enjoyable through storytelling, creating a cozy reading nook, or incorporating themed activities can turn reading into a pleasurable experience rather than a daunting task. By tailoring strategies to individual needs and placing emphasis on the joy of reading we can guide children towards overcoming their challenges and build a foundation for a lifelong love of literature and reading. Overcoming Reading Challenges with Children
Explore magical winter moments in Dalby Forest With miles of scenic trails, cafes to warm-up in and over 8,500 acres of spectacular scenery Dalby Forest is for frosty winter walks, making memories with loved ones and keeping in touch with nature. Sparkling frost, beautiful views Plan your visit 22 raring2go.co.uk 23 Raring2go! Raring2go! LEARN Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Raring2grow! Make your garden a Winter Wonderland Bird Feeding Extravaganza: Transform your garden into a winter haven for feathered friends. Let children create homemade bird feeders and hang them in key spots for easy birdwatching. Winter Planting Adventures: Engage kids in winter planting projects such as frost-resistant flowers like pansies and ever green shrubs. This will add a vivid burst of colour to the winter landscape. Festive Container Gardens: Encourage creativity and then design festive container gardens. Try to include winter flowering plants and seasonal decorations for an added touch of festive winter magic. Crafty Garden Markers: Continue the autumn tradition of crafting garden markers, using materials like wooden spoons or painted stones to label winter plants. Winter Veggie Patch: Grow cold-hardy vegetables like kale and spinach. Teach children the joys of winter gardening and the importance of seasonal produce. Winter Pruning Lessons: Teach the basic winter pruning techniques on dormant trees and shrubs. This will not only maintain plant health but also imparts valuable gardening skills to your eager students! Create Ice Decorations: Turn freezing temperatures into an artistic opportunity. Create ice decorations by filling moulds with water, adding berries or leaves, and freezing them to decorate the garden. Explore Winter Insects: Investigate winter insects. Lift rocks or logs to discover insects in their sneaky winter hideouts showcasing the great diversity of garden life in colder months. Winter Wildlife Tracking: Teach children about winter wildlife tracks. Identify footprints in the snow and discuss the animals that share the garden during this season. Fairy Tale Garden Storytelling: Spark imagination by weaving winter-themed stories that will encourage children to share tales about fairies, gnomes and magical creatures inhabiting the winter garden. Winter gardening with children transforms the garden into a veritable winter wonderland. By incorporating these engaging activities, you not only maintain the garden but also nurture a lifelong love for nature through gardening. Let the laughter of children touch the magic of winter in your garden, creating cherished memories that last well beyond the season. Raring2grow! Outdoor fun for budding green-fingers As winter arrives, family gardening fun takes on a magical quality. There are opportunities for children to engage in activities that help form strong connections with nature. Here are some delightful winter tasks to make the season even more enchanting for the whole family.
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