It's almost time to dust off the decorations and get into the festive spirit - Christmas is set to arrive at Teesside Park next week. 

The popular shopping complex has confirmed details ahead of the festive period - from opening times over December to when its special Christmas market will return. 

From fruit crumble and Yorkshire pudding wraps to handmade crafts, the Christmas markets will boast a wide range of different stalls for shoppers trying to grab a bargain at the park's many shops ahead of the big day. 

We've rounded up everything you need to know about Christmas at Teesside Park here:

What are the December opening hours?

From Monday, December 2, until Friday, January 3, the park will operate the following hours:

  • Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm
  • Saturday, 9am to 7pm
  • Sunday, 10:30am to 4:30pm

What about opening hours for festive dates and bank holidays? 

Here are details on opening hours for key dates across the festive period:

  • Christmas Eve 9am- 6pm
  • Christmas Day: CLOSED
  • Boxing Day 9am- 6pm
  • New Years Eve 9am-6pm
  • New Years Day 9am-6pm

Normal trading hours will resume on Monday, January 6.

Please note - some retailers may extend or reduce their opening hours over this period or be closed on Boxing Day or New Year's Day - so check with them individually.

When are the Christmas markets?

The popular Christmas markets will return to the shopping complex this year from Friday, November 22, until Sunday, January 5.

What stalls will be at the markets?

A selection of stalls will be set up at the park this year, selling unique handmade gifts, including fudge and other sweet treats. 

There will be a variety of festive food favourites on offer such as fruit crumble, waffles and Yorkshire pudding wraps, with other stalls including wood-fired pizza and a traditional German swing grill. 

What else is happening? 

Arriva is hosting a special festive fun day at the park this year, on Saturday, November 23. 

The little ones will be able to meet Father Christmas on the X12 bus and enjoy Christmas crafts free of charge - and even snap a picture with Santa. 

There's also a range of bus services available for visitors travelling to the park from Hartlepool, Norton, Thornaby, Newcastle upon Tyne and more – this includes the number 12 and 16 Arriva services, and Stagecoach number 36, 37, and 38.   

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Catherine Furlong, centre director at Teesside Park, said: “The most wonderful time of the year is on the horizon and we’re as excited as ever for this year’s seasonal celebrations, with everything from our popular Christmas markets to an appearance from Father Christmas himself.

“We’ve got everything you need for a fun festive day out, and we’re looking forward to welcoming people to the centre for a shopping trip, some seasonal food, or perhaps to enjoy a Christmas blockbuster.”