Summer (or at least what we got of it) has drawn to a close and now it's becoming more acceptable to start getting excited about the festive season! Mince pies, Christmas lights, mistletoe and holly are just round the corner so we've compiled our ultimate guide to all the best festive events this season from festive trails to concerts and fairs that will have you decking the halls in no time. Take a look below!
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
When? 21 November 2024 - 5 January 2025
Where? Hyde Park, London
The UK's biggest festive event is back! Offering over 100 rides and attractions, spectacular family performances, delicious street food, Christmas market shopping, and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Iconic attractions such as the Giant Wheel and open-air Ice Rink make their return, as well as performances for all ages with Zippos Christmas Circus and Cirque Berserk. Don't miss out on booking tickets.
Windsor Great Park Illuminated
When? 15 November 2024 - 4 January 2025
Where? Windsor
Windsor Great Park Illuminated returns to add some sparkle to the festive season with family and friends, including those with four-legs. Enjoy a magical evening of dazzling lights, breath-taking projections and flood lit fountain shows. This year promises even more new installations and a sprinkle of returning and reimagined favourites.
Christmas at Kew
When? 13 November 2024 - 5 January 2025
Where? Kew Gardens, South West London
Explore Kew Gardens like you've never seen it before as festive cheer, twinkling lights and seasonal sounds fill the air. Discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour then, for a moment of reflection, pause at mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, wander beneath larger-than-life illuminations and don’t forget to glimpse Father Christmas along the way!
Christmas at Bute Park
When? 22 November - 31 December 2024
Where? Bute Park, Cardiff
Get ready for a kaleidoscopic Christmas in Wales! Visitors are in for a spectacular display at the 4th award-winning event, with a re-imagined route of all new seasonally psychedelic installations created by a selection of world-class artists and lightning designers. Plus you won't want to miss the Christmas Village stocked full of festive food & drinks from local artisan traders.
Christmas at Castle Howard
When? 15 November 2024 - 5 January 2025
Where? Castle Howard, York
Curiouser and curiouser! Tumble down the rabbit hole into a Christmassy wonderland like no other. Alice is planning a huge Christmas party, and she invites you to follow the White Rabbit through Castle Howard’s grand halls and regal rooms with each twist and turn revealing fanciful festive surprises. Don’t be late for this very important date, as you immerse yourself in a psychedelic world that will leave your smile as wide as the Cheshire Cat’s!
Christmas at London Zoo
When? 25 November 2024 - 7 January 2025
Where? London Zoo
Experience Christmas at London Zoo this year. We've got everything you need for a jam-packed family day out, like festive crafts, our giant animal advent calendar, Christmas-themed animal talks, Pop-up Santa, seasonal food and drink, and even the chance to write your letter to Santa! Book your tickets now.
Cardiff's Winter Wonderland
When? 14 November 2024 - 5 January 2025
Where? Cardiff
From Thursday 14 November to Sunday 5 January 2025, Winter Wonderland will once again occupy two iconic city centre locations, the grounds of Cardiff Castle and City Hall Lawn. It returns with festive ice skating, the Ice Bar, and family funfair among a host of attractions for Christmas 2024, don't miss it!
Christmas Classics
When? 14 December - 15 December
Where? Royal Festival Hall, London
Get into the festive spirit with Christmas Classics at the Royal Festival Hall. Enjoy timeless carols and classics like Silent Night, Winter Wonderland, Sleigh Ride and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing performed live by an orchestra and choir. A magical concert for all ages, with a sing-along for the whole family.
Festive Gift Fair
When? 14 November - 17 November 2024
Where? NEC, Birmingham
The biggest and most lively indoor Christmas shopping fair in the West Midlands is back! Be inspired and get your festive preparations off to a flying start at the ever-popular 4-day festive gift fair this November. Now in its 28th year, the Festive Gift Fair remains one of the most popular Christmas shopping events in the UK (and for good reason!) Tickets are on sale now.
Glow Wild
When? 28 November 2024 - 1 January 2025
Where? Wakehurst, Sussex
As darkness falls at Wakehurst, the garden is transformed into an illuminated wonderland, inspired by the hidden world of trees. Escape to over a mile of light installations, handcrafted by leading artists. Discover the iconic Christmas tree, giant flying owl, and fiery hidden dragon, all surrounded by a thousand lanterns, on this award-winning trail. Relax by trying delicious street food, toasting artisan marshmallows on a real fire, and Christmas shopping for the whole family in the Gift Shop and Plant Centre!
The Polar Express Train Ride
When? 30 November - 24 December 2024
Where? Aberystwyth
Exciting news! This Christmas, The Polar Express™ is coming to Aberystwyth, with tickets available exclusively through See Tickets! Experience the beloved Christmas story brought to life on a real steam train, featuring live performances, singing and dancing with characters, a visit from Father Christmas, and delicious hot chocolate and cookies.
Perfect for all ages, this heart-warming adventure runs from November 30th to December 24th. Don’t miss out—tickets are expected to sell fast, so book yours today!
Good Food Show Winter
When? 21 November - 24 November 2024
Where? NEC, Birmingham
Ready to spice up your festive season? Secure your tickets to the Good Food Show Winter from 21-24 November at the NEC Birmingham to shake up cocktails, master wine tasting, and indulge in exquisite chocolate. Explore a variety of producers with tasty samples, shop unique products, and discover new recipes, including plant-based tips from Max La Manna and comforting winter dishes from Sophie Wyburd. It's the ultimate foodie day out!
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink
When? 22 November 2024 - 5 January 2025
Where? Hampton Court Palace, Surrey
Set against the backdrop of Henry VIII’s historic home, Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is the perfect way to glide into the season. Lace up your skates, bring your loved ones, and get ready for an enchanting experience on the ice.
Handel's Messiah
When? 13 December 2024
Where? Royal Festival Hall, London
Experience the awe-inspiring majesty of Handel’s Messiah performed by the renowned Philharmonia Orchestra and Philharmonia Chorus. This celebrated chorial masterpiece, featuring the iconic “Hallelujah” chorus, promises a night of musical brilliance and festive splendour.
Ideal Home Show Christmas
When? 27 November - 1 December 2024
Where? Olympia, London
The UK’s best loved Christmas home show will open its doors for five festive-filled days, from 27 November – 1 December at Olympia Events, London. Step into a fairy-tale land of colourful Christmas lights, glowing trees and shining baubles and share the excitement of getting ready for Christmas. A must-visit event for anyone looking to get into the festive spirit and gather ideas for their holiday celebrations
Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
When? 28 November 2023 - 1 January 2024
Where? York
Returning to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens from November 28th to January 1st, award winning producers return with a brand-new immersive light trail and a huge number of festive installations. Experience the magic as the trail showcases mesmerising fire jugglers, breath-taking aerial artists, and larger-than-life characters. Delight in more food and drink options as you stroll through the Christmas Wonderland, perfect for getting you in the festive spirit.
Live At Christmas with Sarah Pascoe
When? 2 December - 21 December 2024
Where? Nationwide
The nation’s top comedians are heading on tour for an incredible all-star festive event! Starring Sara Pascoe and with special guests including Phil Wang, Lou Sanders, Ivo Graham, Jamali Maddix, Rhys James and more, don’t miss the chance to catch an outstanding comedy line-up this festive season.
Northern Lights Leeds
When? 21 November - 31 December 2024
Where? Temple Newsam, Leeds
Tickets are now on sale for West Yorkshire’s newest and most illuminating festive attraction; the immersive Northern Lights, held in the grounds of the Grade I-listed landmark Temple Newsam. Northern Lights will take visitors on a jaw-dropping journey through a spectrum of illuminations & unique musical compositions. Approximately one mile long, the trail will host up to 14 distinct illuminated zones featuring interactive elements and immersive soundtracks that combine to create an otherworldly sensory experience.
Northern Lights Newcastle
When? 22 November - 31 December 2024
Where? Leazes Park, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
The 5* immersive trail which lights up Newcastle like never before is back! Northern Lights will take visitors on a jaw-dropping journey through a spectrum of illuminations, unique musical compositions and a series of all-new zones & jaw-dropping special effects for the whole family to enjoy.
Only Men Aloud
When? 23 November - 14 December 2024
Where? Nationwide
Only Men Aloud, formed in 2000 to revitalize the Welsh Male Choir tradition, have been delighting audiences worldwide for over twenty years. Known for their strong vocals and diverse repertoire, they blend Welsh hymns, opera, music theatre, acapella, and pop music. After a five-year hiatus, they’re returning to tour, with stops including Llandrindod Wells, Bath, Tenby, and a special ‘Gala Concert’ in Barry on December 7th.
Skate Manchester
When? 8 November 2024 - 1 January 2025
Where? Cathedral Gardens, Manchester
Get your ice skates on! Located in Cathedral Gardens in the heart of Manchester from 8 November 2024 to 1 January 2025, Skate Manchester returns! Their covered rink guarantees a magical skating experience no matter what the weather. Better still, you can use code 24EARLY25BIRD25 for 25% off any November session! (offer valid until 30 September 2024).
Spirit Of Christmas Fair
When? 4 November - 10 November 2024
Where? Olympia, London
Start the Christmas season with an unforgettable day at the Spirit of Christmas Fair. Shop from over 600 independent brands and award-winning food and drink artisans to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Save 25%* with code PTSTF. T&C’s apply. Enjoy complimentary access to our co-located Fairs: The Luxury Travel Fair and Winter Art & Antiques Fair.
Starry Nights at Beecraigs Country Park
When? 6 December - 23 December 2024
Where? Beecraigs Country Park, West Lothian
This December Beecraigs Country Park is transformed into a glittering Christmas wonderland when the spectacular Starry Nights experience comes to Linlithgow for the first time. Grab your tickets for this thrilling adventure through an immersive lighting trail! There's so much to see and do for children and adults alike with Singing Trees, a fairy den, Candy Cane Lane, Christmas Campfire in the forest with Marshmallows, the Snowball Blizzard, and the mischievous Grinch, plus Scotland’s longest twinkle starry tunnel taking you on another enchanting immersive experience.
Starry Nights at Dean Castle
When? 6 December - 23 December 2024
Where? Dean Castle Country Park, Kilmarnock
Dean Castle is once again transformed into a sparkling Christmas wonderland when the spectacular Starry Nights experience returns to Kilmarnock this December. Following the success of last year’s event, this magical illuminated display is back, bringing a touch of stardust and an unforgettable evening of festive lights and Christmas-themed soundscapes for family and friends alike to the Castle and Country Park. Secure your tickets for this immersive lighting trail that will transport you into a land of sensory wonder as lasers fill the skies with the colours of Christmas.
Swansea Waterfront Winterland
When? 15 November 2024 - 5 January 2025
Where? Swansea
Swansea's Waterfront Winterland returns this festive season with a host of attractions including the Ice Rink for a magical skating experience set in a festive undercover setting, the Alpine Bar where visitors can unwind with a warm drink in hand, plus the Giant Wheel and Funfair! Tickets are on sale now for this festive delight.
The IRN-BRU Carnival
When? 20 December 2024 - 12 January 2025
Where? SEC, Glasgow
The IRN-BRU Carnival returns to Glasgow’s SEC this festive season, packed full of rides and stalls for kids of all ages. For the thrill seekers, there’s the Superstar, Star Fighter, Sticky Wall, and Air Raid, and families can get their kicks on the Samba Balloons and Helter Skelter. If traditional rides are more your thing, don’t miss the Carousel, Dodgems, and Waltzer, and then there’s Inflatable Play for the little ones – complete with a handy café for the grown ups to refuel!
Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas
When? 12 December 2024
Where? OVO Arena Wembley, London
Jack is Back! Multiple award-winning composer, songwriter and reigning Pumpkin King, Danny Elfman returns to the UK this December with the live-to-film concert event celebrating the timeless classic, 'Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas' for a very special show at London OVO Arena Wembley. This unique live cine-concert production features Danny Elfman (the original singing voice of Jack Skellington) performing live in sync with the full-length movie projected on the big screen, accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra and very special guests.
Winter Light Trail Northampton
When? 22 November - 31 December 2024
Where? Delapré Abbey, Northampton
Discover breath-taking light installations, captivating soundscapes and interactive elements as you embark on a glittering adventure, set amongst stunning grounds and woodland. Conclude your visit in the cosy Apres bar or a private mini chalet to savour delicious festive food and sip a seasonal drink (or two!), and make unforgettable memories with loved ones this winter. Tickets on sale now.
Winter Light Trail Trentham
When? 29 November - 31 December 2024
Where? Trentham Gardens, Stone-on-Trent
Experience mesmerizing light installations, immersive soundscapes, and interactive features as you embark on a dazzling journey through beautiful grounds and woodland. End your visit in the cosy Après bar or a private mini chalet, where you can enjoy delicious festive treats and sip on seasonal drinks.
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