Countdown to Christmas is on

The Christmas Countdown competition will see with daily prizes on offer from local retailers with a fantastic range of prizes including jewellery, gin, afternoon tea, meals out and much more. The competitions will be hosted on the #LoveDarlo Facebook page from early December.

The popular Ice Sculpture Trail returns over two weekends on Saturday 4 and 11 December (10am-4pm) with wonderful ice creations including icy selfie opportunities, prize giveaways, live ice sculpting in the market square, plus street theatre and live music around the town.

More icy fun follows with the free ice rink every day (10am-4pm) in the market square from Saturday 18 until Thursday 23 December. A Victorian carousel and gift marquee with free craft activities will complete the festive fun. Ice skating slots can be pre-booked from early December, the carousel is turn up and ride.

Councillor Alan Marshall, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for Economy said:

“We’ve pulled out all the stops to make sure Darlington is the place to come to for free, festive family fun. I’m delighted that we can host the live events again and look forward to the streets of our wonderful town centre being full of festive fun, lights and laughter once again.

“Many thanks to our local businesses who have very kindly got on board our Christmas Countdown competition, dressed their windows, and given so generously.”

More details of Christmas events can be found at www.enjoydarlington.co.uk or on the #LoveDarlo Facebook page.

Visitors can take advantage of two hours free parking in council-run town centre car parks and on street parking bays. All day parking is available on Sundays in selected car parks from £1. Motorists are advised to read local signage and to display a ticket from the machine. More details at: www.darlington.gov.uk/carparking