From the spectacular light trail AGLOW, to a Nativity scene that has to be seen to be believed, The Auckland Project are pulling out some real crackers in the run-up to Christmas.

I’m not religious but I do love a Nativity scene. I mean, who doesn’t love a donkey? But the Nativity scene at the Auckland Project’s Faith Museum knocks my own Nativity scene – with its LEGO Mary (I stood on the original) – into a cocked hat. The Auckland Project’s version is huge, monumental, and features over 421 individually carved figures (pictured). Made in the 18th century, this baroque, Neapolitan masterpiece is one of the most important examples of its kind, certainly outside of Italy, and stands 11ft tall (15 November-29 December, selected days). Also pushing all those buttons marked ‘Spectacular’ is AGLOW at Auckland Palace. This spectacular light trail will light up the skies of Bishop Auckland once again in the run-up to Christmas with some of the largest light installations in the country, featuring over 20 incredible illuminations, including new displays for 2024 (22 November-31 December, selected days). Also in the offing is Christmas at the Palace. This will see 12 rooms at Auckland Palace sumptuously decorated, including the State Rooms, St Peter’s Chapel and the Bishop’s Apartment, meaning you can now enjoy these remarkable interiors – complete with stunning artworks and furnishings – alongside a touch of Christmas magic (15 November-29 December, selected days). Add in the Santa Express (16 November-24 December) and Christmas Town (featuring Santa’s grotto, Christmas markets, ice rink, ferris wheel, and more – 29 November-15 December) and you’ll find that Bishop Auckland has Christmas well and truly wrapped up. DP

More information on all the above from: aucklandproject.org