The return of Lumiere

Good morning, Durham. As the lights from Lumiere are removed, we get ready to put up the Christmas lights. I hope you’re as excited as me.

In today’s newsletter:

• The return of Lumiere

• Durham in the North East Culture Awards

• Lots of Christmas events

Let’s get to it.

— Stephen Davies

The return of Lumiere

It was called “one of Europe’s most important light festivals” by the Guardian, the BBC called it “stunning” and, once again, this year’s Lumiere didn’t disappoint.

The biennial event, with its dazzling array of light installations from international artists like Javier Riera and Ai Weiwei, not only illuminated the city's landmarks but also cast a radiant glow on the Durham community spirit.

We paid a visit to Durham City on Friday night (our Instagram video here) and it was wonderful to see people from all over the county and much further afield enjoying the displays.

ON INSTAGRAM

📸 @wanderlust.charlotte_x | 📍Durham Dales

Tag @durhamscoop with your brilliant photos of Durham to get in the Scoop!

THE DIGEST

Win big while supporting local: Durham BID’s £2,500 voucher giveaway 💷

Here's your chance to win big and support local businesses. Join the Durham BID’s Independent campaign from November 17 to December 22, and be part of an exciting prize draw.

Over 40 independent businesses, including Collected Books and Circle Vintage, are participating. Just pick up a loyalty card, shop at three different stores, and collect stamps to enter. Every week, five lucky winners will receive £100 vouchers to spend locally.

It's a fantastic way to discover Durham's unique shops and contribute to the local economy. Don't miss out on this opportunity to win and support local businesses.

For a full list of businesses participating, please go to https://www.lifeindurham.co.uk/durham-independents/

North East Culture Awards finalists 🏆

Good luck to all the Durham entrants just announced in the North East Culture Awards. These are:

1. Lizzie Lovejoy in the "Visual Artist of the Year" category, who led a project focused on the Bishop Line railway in County Durham.

2. STAR by TIN Arts in the "Best Arts & Education Partnership" category. TIN Arts is a Durham-based dance company.

3. B.O.P Fest by Jack Drum Arts in the "Special Award for Young Achievement" category. Jack Drum Arts is based in Crook.

4. The Auckland Project in the "Heritage Award" category, for its significant contributions to Bishop Auckland.

The awards are an annual celebration of the North East's vibrant arts and culture, and the Durham finalists highlight the region’s significant and growing contributions to it.

WEATHER

A cloudy week but not much rain (thankfully!). It’s a good week for Christmas shopping.

Monday 12 🌡️ 7 | ☁️ | 💨 NW 10 mph

Tuesday 9 🌡️ 4 | ☁️ | 💨 W 4 mph

Wednesday 12 🌡️ 10 | ☁️ | 💨 W 14 mph

Thursday 13 🌡️ 5 | ☁️ | 💨 W 17 mph

Friday 8 🌡️ 2 | ☁️ | 💨 W 12 mph

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Experience the magic of a Dickens’ classic like never before at Durham Cathedral 🎅

In the spirit of the festive season, Chapterhouse Theatre Company is presenting a production of Charles Dickens' beloved classic, A Christmas Carol at Durham Cathedral this week. This heartwarming tale of miser Ebenezer Scrooge is being brought to life with stunning musical sequences and authentic period costumes. The show is on both 24 and 25 November and tickets can be bought here.

See the tallest Christmas tree in Northern England and the longest outdoor light tunnel in the UK 🎄

AGLOW at Auckland Castle is a stunning Christmas light trail, featuring a 1.5-mile route with the North's largest Christmas tree, the UK's longest outdoor light tunnel, and a spectacular light show held at the castle.

The event is from 22 Nov - 31 Dec and includes interactive installations, a Santa show, and vintage fairground rides, plus sensory-friendly sessions for a more relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy street food and festive treats, making AGLOW a must-visit family event for a magical Christmas experience. Get your tickets here.

Christmas Comedy Club at Ramside Hall

Ramside Hall promises a night filled with laughter and entertainment on Friday, 24 November from 6:30 pm. Priced at £39.95 per person, this adults-only event is a must-attend for those looking to add some humour and joy to their festive celebrations. The evening is not just about comedy; it also features a lively disco to keep you entertained. The bar will stay open until midnight, ensuring a festive and fun-filled atmosphere. More details and tickets are here.

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

Visitor attractions in County Durham launch new drive to draw tourists 🧳

County Durham has embarked on an innovative marketing journey with the launch of "Do Durham Differently," a compelling campaign spearheaded by Visit County Durham. This initiative, rooted in the county's unique and diverse experiences, aims to reshape Durham as a sought-after tourist destination. We all know what a beautiful county it is, and it’s time more people outside of it do too.

Countdown to the County Durham Together Awards 2023 🦸‍♀️

The County Durham Together Awards 2023, taking place on 6 December at Hardwick Hall Hotel and hosted by Peter Barron MBE, shines a spotlight on the extraordinary efforts of our residents, volunteers, and businesses. Spanning a diverse range of categories, these awards acknowledge the unsung heroes whose dedication and service are the lifeblood of our community. Celebrating their contributions is not just an honour; it's a testament to the strength and resilience that define County Durham.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Head of Steam - Friday 24th, 7 pm

Angel Inn - Steel Blue - Saturday 25th

El Pincho Mediterranean Bar - resident DJ - Saturday 25th, 3 pm

THANKS!

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