Durham Cricket Wraps Up Dazzling Christmas Party Season Welcoming Over 1,300 Guests

The team at Durham Cricket is proud to look back on yet another unforgettable festive season, having welcomed 1,345 guests across four signature Christmas parties that lit up the region in true style.

Durham, January 2026 – From glistening winter wonderlands to a delightfully eerie mash-up of holidays, Durham Cricket once again proved why it remains one of the North East’s top destinations for festive celebrations. Held at the Banks Homes Riverside, the events brought together friends, colleagues and clients from across the region to eat, drink and dance the nights away.

Signature Nights That Delivered the Magic

The “Let The Bells Ring Out” party series transformed the venue into a sparkling winter escape – with twinkling lights, centrepieces and shimmering jewel tones that wowed guests from the moment they stepped inside. Meanwhile, “Nightmare Before Christmas” took things in a spookier, quirkier direction with a Halloween-meets-Christmas theme complete with pumpkin soup, shot menus, and a “Best Dressed” competition that brought out some of the most imaginative costumes of the season.

Behind the scenes, the success was led by Jo Morris and Ythan Sale, who managed everything from event planning to the spectacular room setups. On the night, Duty Manager Lisa Caris ensured every detail ran smoothly and handled the last minute touches that make the nights perfect. Returning collaborators including Gareth Williams of Digital Williams (event photography & video) and Party Poppers of Chester-le-Street (venue décor) once again played vital roles in bringing the magic to life.

Glowing Guest Feedback

The feedback from attendees speaks volumes:

• “Brilliant event, very organised. Great team on the evening as well.” – St John’s Catholic School
• “The food was quality – best dessert ever! Room setup was perfect.” – Julie Coram, Let The Bells Ring Out
• “Staff really embraced the zany vibe. DJ read the room well, and the photographer was a lovely touch.” – Geeks of the Galaxy
• “Communication was timely and professional, and the team made the day perfect.” – EMG Solicitors
• “Best Christmas party I’ve been to – you beat the Radisson in Durham!” – Sharon Robson, Let The Bells Ring Out

Looking Ahead to Christmas 2026

While 2025 saw slightly fewer guests than the previous year, the team sees that as an opportunity, not a setback.

“We were absolutely blown away by people’s energy and willingness to party,” said the Events Team. “It’s motivated us to make 2026 our biggest and best Christmas ever – and we’re already planning for it!”

With a new Events Coordinator, Emily Humphries, joining the team, Durham Cricket is set to elevate next year’s festive experiences even further.

🎁 Early bookings are now open for Christmas 2026. Whether you’re planning an office party or a night out with friends, contact the Events Team at 0191 387 2816 or events@durhamcricket.co.uk to secure your spot.