THE FESTIVE spirit is alive and well in Sunderland – thanks to the Bridges’ packed programme of Christmas activities which gets underway this week (Nov 21).
The shopping centre has created a magical range of events which are guaranteed to keep both children and adults entertained, right up to the big day itself.
The centre’s ever-popular VR ride has returned, this time with a whole new adventure which will see participants head to Santa’s toy workshop and help save Christmas.
Toy Workshop Rescue runs weekends from Saturday 23 November until Sunday 22 December, with additional sessions available on Monday 23 and Tuesday 22 December.
The VR ride runs from 10am until 4pm on Saturdays and 11am to 3.30pm on Sundays and then from 10am until 6pm on 23 December and 9am to 4pm on Christmas Eve.
The centre’s Santa’s Grotto has also now opened its doors, giving youngsters the opportunity to come face to face with the jolly man in red and let him know what they’d like for Christmas.
The grotto is open Tuesdays to Sunday up until Christmas Eve and will also be available on Monday 16 and Monday 23 December.
The first hour on Sundays – 11am to noon – has been designated a quiet hour in the grotto, for those who may have sensory sensitivities.
Early risers may also want to sign up for the Bridges’ Breakfast with Santa sessions being held on Sunday 8, 15 and 22 September from 8.30am until 10am.
Guests can enjoy a breakfast treat from Starbucks followed by a morning of Christmas storytelling and festive arts and crafts with Santa and his elf.
Sunday 1 December will also see the return of the ever-popular Reindeer Dash, raising funds for the Red Sky Foundation and in partnership with Sunderland BID and Everyone Active.
Bookings can be made at https://dash.redskyfoundation.com/ and include a pre-dash warm up sessions, reindeer antlers and reindeer dust, along with a certificate for all participants.
Karen Eve, Centre Director at the Bridges, said Christmas had well and truly arrived at the centre.
“As the countdown to Christmas begins, we’re delighted to unveil our great programme of events,” she said.
“Our new and exciting VR ride, plus the return of favourites like the grotto, breakfast with Santa and the Red Sky Reindeer Dash will ensure it’s a festive season to remember.”
Entry into Santa’s grotto costs £2.50, with a special deal available at weekends and on 23 and 23 December where for £5 youngsters can go to the grotto and the VR ride.
The VR ride on its own costs £3.50 or £5 with a visit to Santa’s grotto. All payments for the ride and grotto can be made at the Customer Service Desk.
Full details of all activities, timings and prices are available at the website at
The centre is also now offering late night shopping in the run-up to Christmas, with stores open on Thursday evening until 7pm and from Monday 16 – Friday 20 December and Monday 23 December.