A POP-up Christmas weekend kicks off in Barnard Castle on Friday, November 29, with a lantern parade at 6pm.
The willow lanterns, which have been made by teams of volunteers and featuring cut-outs for iconic Teesdale buildings, will be illuminated by battery tea-lights.
The parade will start at 6pm from the Commercial Arms, before heading along Flatts Road and into the grounds of Woodleigh.
The lanterns will be mounted on a large trailer so visitors can get a good look at the works of art before the annual Christmas tree lighting takes place at 6.30pm. This year the event features a return of the snow globe and, of course, Santa Claus.
Shoppers on Saturday will be serenaded by groups including No Added Sugar and the Chapel Choir.
The St Mary’s Church Community Band will also have a festive theme with lots of Christmas music and songs, at the parish church from 10am.
During the afternoon there will be a variety of street food available on the cobbles as well as Christmas goodies from local traders.
And if you’ve got your dog with you don’t forget to enter the Doggy Christmas Pageant.
Photograph David Williams will be snapping pooches in a specially created studio behind the Witham.
It’s free to enter and if your hound’s photograph is judged to be the winner, you get to take away a framed photograph.
As daylight slips away focus for the pop up weekend turns to the Hub at Shaw Bank, which is offering a night of stargazing with astronomer Richard Darn, including drinks on arrival, a seasonal meal plus a presentation, and the opportunity to hold a four billion-year-old space rock.
Tickets for stargazing cost £30 for adults and £12 for children. They need to be booked in advance by contacting the Hub on 01833 690150.
