Festival and event news

With the UK's largest light festival less than a week away, visitors are being encouraged to plan their journey in advance.

For the most ambitious edition of Lumiere yet, a selection of favourite artworks from previous festivals will sit alongside a host of new commissions by international artists and fresh talent from the North East.

Pupils from primary schools across County Durham learnt how people of different religions use light to celebrate their faith at a festival this month.

County Durham residents are being urged to celebrate this year's bonfire night responsibly.

A seaside town will serve up a second helping of culinary fun when a successful food festival returns next year.

Families can enjoy an evening full of frighteningly good circus fun in Durham City's Wharton Park this Halloween.

As excitement builds for the full programme announcement on October 17, Lumiere organisers have revealed the return of festival favourite Mysticète (the whale).

A food festival that attracted more than 29,000 people in April will serve up even more tasty treats, celebrity chefs and culinary inspiration when it returns next year.

Young actors set to captivate audiences in an upcoming stage adaptation of Lord of the Flies have spoken of their excitement at starring in a professional production.

Messages of friendship from schoolchildren across the globe will be included within a special light installation symbolising the importance of international co-operation.

A two-week festival celebrating Bishop Auckland's rich and varied history is set to take place later this month.

Magic carpet rides, pop icons and a chilling desert island adventure - an exhilarating autumn awaits at a County Durham theatre.

Festival fanatics are being reminded to take the opportunity to be part of the UK's largest light festival.

People can enjoy free access to more than 80 venues across County Durham next month, as part of England's largest festival of history and culture.

A series of family history courses invite new and experienced heritage-seekers to find out about their past.

A unique County Durham landmark is to be transformed by a celebrated local artist as part of a year of celebrations to mark its half-century.

Adults with disabilities enjoyed all the fun of the fair with their families and carers at a circus-themed celebration in County Durham.

It's a day that marks half a century of one of the most celebrated moments in history - and one that is commemorated in County Durham in truly unique style.

Our summer guide provides lots of ideas and suggestions for events, activities and venues that will provide the perfect day out.

The UK's largest light festival is set to return with shining splendour this November, and organisers are calling for people to be part of it.