Christmas in York in 2025 is set to be magical.
Here are all the events you can enjoy in the city over the festive period. This guide will be continually updated.
Things to do in York this Christmas
Festive favourites
Sleeping Beauty
Your dreams have come true… The 2025/26 York Theatre Royal pantomime with Evolution Productions will be the enchanting Sleeping Beauty!
Join us for this timeless tale of adventure, magic and festive family fun.
Jennie Dale will be bringing more than a sprinkle of magic as Fairy Moonbeam. Jennie is known for playing Captain Captain in the beloved CBeebies TV series Swashbuckle and for presenting her show Jennie’s Fitness in 5 for CBeebies and CBBC.
York favourite, Robin Simpson (Dame Dolly in Aladdin, Dame Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk), will be back and getting up to more hijinks in this fun-filled show.
West End star Jocasta Almgill will be joining the cast as wicked fairy Carabosse. Jocasta has starred in a wide range of musicals, including most recently as Diana Morales in A Chorus Line (Curve/Sadler’s Wells/National Tour) and Rizzo in Grease (Dominion Theatre).
Audience favourite, Tommy Carmichael, will be heading back to York this festive season to appear as Jangles and West End performer Aoife Kenny (Clueless, West End) will be playing our Princess Aurora.
Written by Paul Hendy and directed by Juliet Forster – the same fantastic team who brought you the magical Aladdin and the GIANT Jack and the Beanstalk.
With stunning costumes, gorgeous sets, dazzling special effects and lots of hilarious jokes, Sleeping Beauty is set to be a festive treat for the whole family.
Don’t hit snooze… get your tickets early to be sure to secure the best seats.
- York Theatre Royal, St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
- Tue 2 Dec 2025 – Sun 4 Jan 2026
- Various times
- More info
York Christmas Market
York’s award-winning Christmas Market is back from 13th November to 21st December 2025, bringing festive cheer to the heart of the city. With 85% of the traders hailing from Yorkshire, this is a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying the best of what the region has to offer.
- Parliament St, York
- Thu 13 Nov – Sun 21 Dec
- 10am – 7pm
- More info
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland is York’s favourite festive event, offering a magical winter experience for all ages, with its glistening outdoor ice rink, thrilling funfair, magical Santa’s Grotto and cosy alpine café The Chalet.
- York Designer Outlet, St Nicholas Ave, York YO19 4TA
- Fri 14 Nov 2025 – Sun 4 Jan 2026
- From 10am
- More info
Christmas at Castle Howard with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Our most popular Christmas experience! The House is transformed into the magical world of Oz. Experience our festive take on L. Frank Baum’s much-loved story, told through installations, soundscapes and projections, created by CLW Event Design and Imitating the Dog – the same creative team that brought you Alice’s Christmas Wonderland and Christmas in Neverland.
- Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
- Thu 13 Nov 2025 – Sun 4 Jan 2026
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
Family fun
A Christmas Mousequerade
This Christmas the Fairfax family are preparing for a spectacular Ball, and you are their cordially invited guest. Wander into the glittering world of Georgian York, where Ann Fairfax and the Viscount are preparing to host the ultimate Christmas party! Fairfax House will be opulently dressed for the season and brought to life with festive Georgian entertainments. But keep your eyes peeled… the mischievous Townmice are back, determined not to miss out on the celebrations and causing festive mayhem along the way.
- Fairfax House, Castlegate, York YO1 9RN
- Sat 15 Nov – Sun 4 Jan
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
An Inspired Christmas
This festive season, experience Christmas at Treasurer’s House. Inspired by the captivating stories of the past residents of this premier postcode. The decorations are not always what you might expect. Many have been handcrafted by our dedicated team of volunteers, adding a personal touch to each room’s unique design. Every corner has a story to tell, with bespoke touches and hidden details waiting to be discovered. Looking for something for smaller visitors? Spot the locally crafted stained-glass stars as you wander through the house.
- Treasurer’s House, Minster Yard, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7JL
- Sat 15 Nov – Sun 21 Dec
- 11am – 4pm
- More info
Christmas at York Castle Museum 2025: A Very Yorkshire Christmas
Be immersed in festive atmosphere at York Castle Museum and discover Yorkshire Christmases through the ages. With period decorations, live performances, music and cookery demonstrations in the Castle Kitchen, you’ll embrace the magic of Christmas with all your senses. Our famous Victorian street, Kirkgate will transport you to a Christmas reminiscent of Dickensian England. You’ll be greeted with beautifully decorated pine trees, twinkling garlands, a fresh layer of snow on the cobblestones and live performances of traditional carols and tunes.
There’s a varied programme of festive-themed activities for all ages taking place and the Castle Museum gift shop is filled with seasonal items for those wanting to find the perfect gift for themselves or a loved one, including an exclusive Green Father Christmas tree decoration.
- York Castle Museum, Eye of York, York, YO1 9RY
- Sat 15 Nov – Sun 4 Jan
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
Magical Sleigh Rides at Piglets Adventure Farm
Check in at Elf Airlines and jump aboard the Magical Sleigh Ride to Santa’s Woodland Village, for a truly unforgettable Christmas experience. Meet the fun festive elves and the big man himself! Share your dreams and wishes with Santa who will give you the magic key to unlock his amazing Toy Shop. Choose your perfect gift from a huge selection. Watch live shows with the cheeky elves, make reindeer food, write your Christmas Wish and leave it on the Wishing Tree. The kids don’t get all the fun – there’s a complementary mince pie and mulled wine for the adults (as long as you are not on the naughty list)!!
Plus enjoy lots of animal and outdoor fun in the Adventure Farm Park. All included in the price of your ticket!
- Piglets Adventure Farm, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York YO32 9ST
- Fri 21 Nov – Wed 24 Dec
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
Elf Run at York Designer Outlet
Get ready for a fun-filled morning as we celebrate the festive season with a run around the Outlet, giving you chance to do some Christmas shopping afterwards! This event is perfect for all ages, where the whole family can join in the fun. Every participant will receive a free elf hat, along with plenty of other exciting perks.
We’ll kick off the event with fantastic entertainment and a warm-up session led by Thomas “Christmas” Clubbercise and our friends at YorkMix. After that, get ready for a festive snow party and lots of entertainment along the clearly marked route. We’ll also be offering glitter face-painting for donations! Keep an eye out for Santa, who may join us to cheer you on as you start your run.
- York Designer Outlet, York, YO19 4TA
- Sun 23 Nov
- From 8:30am
- More info
Christmas Festival at the Web Adventure Park
Create Unforgettable Festive Memories at the Web Adventure Park’s Magical Christmas Experience! Step into a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer, perfect for the whole family. This enchanting event includes an audience with Father Christmas, some mischievous Elves, and a day full of Christmas magic.
- Web Adventure Park, Wigginton Road, York YO32 2RH
- Sat 29 Nov – Wed 24 Dec
- 9:30am – 6:30pm
- More info
Christmas at Mother Shipton’s
Step into a world of magic and wonder as you enter Mother Shipton’s magical Christmas experience. Get ready, for Santa is flying through the starry skies to meet you! From the moment you step into this enchanted land, Santa’s cheerful elves will welcome you with open arms. Every child with a Santa Experience Ticket will receive a pack of festive activities, a magical pass to unlock the wonders that await.
- Mother Shipton’s Cave, Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough, HG5 8DD
- Sat 29 Nov – Wed 24 Dec
- 10am – 4:30pm
- More info
Santa Express: A Magical Christmas Adventure
Come and enjoy a brand-new interactive adventure for families as they meet Father Christmas on the NYMR Santa Express. The steam train ride will be packed with songs, jokes and the magic of Christmas, brought to life by Santa’s Elves – families will also get to meet the great man himself on board.
- North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering Station, Pickering, YO18 7AJ
- 29, 30 Nov, 6, 7, 13, 14, 20-24 Dec
- 9:30am – 5pm
- More info
Christmas Tree Festival
Experience York Minster’s popular Christmas Tree Festival, set inside the medieval Minster, with 70 trees on display in the cathedral’s stunning Nave, Chapter House and Lady Chapel. Explore the trees, which will be decorated to individual themes by local businesses, schools and charities, and add your own Christmas message to a tag on the festival’s prayer trees. The festival will open on Saturday 29 November at 10am with a light switch-on at ‘Minster Mash-Up’, York Minster’s special service for children and families.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Sat 29 Nov – Mon 5 Jan
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
Seasonal shows
Slava’s Snow Show
Slava’s Snowshow promises a breath-taking multisensory delight in a joyous dream-like world which will touch both your heart and funny bone! The multi award-winning international sensation returns by popular demand. This truly unique theatrical adventure is filled with heart, humour and stunning spectacle. Enter Slava’s snowy world for a once in a life time, joyous, fun packed event culminating in a blizzard that puts you firmly at the centre of the action leaving you literally knee deep in show!
- Grand Opera House York, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW
- Wed 19 – Sun 23 Nov
- Various times
- More info
Count Arthur Strong is Charles Dickens in ‘A Christmas Carol’ 2025
Count Arthur Strong announces a new festive run of shows for late 2025 across the UK – ‘Count Arthur Strong is Charles Dickens in ‘A Christmas Carol’. Arthur delivers the Charles Dickens story and follows this with his own adaptation of the most classic of festive tales, A Christmas Carol.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Thu 20 Nov
- 8pm
- More info
Muppet Christmas Carol In Concert
Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol will be presented this winter live in concert on a UK-wide tour, featuring a screening of the complete film with its musical score performed live by orchestra. The Muppets perform Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine). Gonzo, as Dickens, narrates the story with the help of Rizzo the Rat. The film also features Miss Piggy as Emily Cratchit, Fozzie Bear as Fozziwig, and Robin the Frog as Tiny Tim.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Fri 21 Nov
- 7pm
- More info
A Fairytale for Christmas
After four back-to-back sell-out tours, and successful runs in the USA and Europe, A Fairytale for Christmas has gained thousands of festive fans across the globe – and is now back in town. From the producers of Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners, immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as talented singers, musicians and dancers perform dashing renditions of Yuletide favourites including ‘Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town’, ‘Step into Christmas’, ‘O Holy Night’ and ‘The Fairytale of New York’.
- Grand Opera House York, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW
- Mon 24 – Tue 25 Nov
- 7:30pm
- More info
Christmas Gothic
Christmas: a time to remember the past, celebrate the present, and look to the future; a time of feasts and festivities; of holly and mistletoe; a time of visits and visitations. A time of ghosts. Come in from the cold and enter into the Christmas spirit as a dark and spectral woman tells haunting tales of the festive season, lighting a candle to the frailties of human nature and illuminating the cold and chilling depths of the bleak, wintry dark…
- Theatre@41, 41 Monkgate, York, YO31 7PB
- Thu 27 Nov
- 7:30pm
- More info
The Flint Street Nativity
Join Wilberfoss Amateur Theatre Society for a Christmas production like no other! Miss Horrocks’ class of seven-year-olds is about to perform their nativity play at Flint Street Junior School for their proud mams and dads. But squabbles soon arise when Gabriel wants to play Mary, the Star grumbles he’s not a proper star like they have at NASA and Herod won’t stop waving to his mam and dad. And then the stick insect escapes … Both the children and their parents are played by adults in this funny and warm-hearted play, featuring traditional Christmas carols as you’ve never heard them before!
- Wilberfoss Community Centre, Main Street, Wilberfoss YO41 5NN
- Sat 29 – Sun 30 Nov
- 1pm & 6pm
- More info
Cinderella
York’s most magical festive tradition is back – and it’s bigger, bolder and more star-studded than ever. Cinderella at the Grand Opera House York is set to be the city’s biggest Christmas show, boasting dazzling casting, glittering production values and a laugh-a-minute script.
Beloved star of stage and screen, Lisa George (Coronation Street) stars as Fairy Godmother, with winner of ITV’s Mamma Mia! I Have A Dream,Tobias Turley (Mamma Mia, Heathers, West Side Story) as Prince Charming, West End star Rachel Grundy (Starlight Express, Legally Blonde, Rocky Horror) as Cinderella, West End drag superstars Luke Attwood & Brandon Nicholson as the Ugly Sisters and Jimmy Bryant as Buttons.
- Grand Opera House, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW
- Sat 6 Dec 2025 – Sun 4 Jan 2026
- Various times
- More info
The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan
Join Wendy, John and Michael as they fly with Peter Pan to the fantastical world of Neverland. Cling onto your seats as Peter and the Lost Boys do battle with the rather nasty Captain Hook and his even nastier bunch of pirates. But fear not as Nanny McFlea and her ever eager apprentice Barkly, are on hand to assist in the most ridiculous of ways!
Silly jokes, sillier slapstick, song and dance are the order of the day with the obligatory song sheet and lots of audience participation!
- Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York, YO31 8TA
- Sat 6 – Sun 8 & Tue 9 – Sat 13 Dec
- Various times
- More info
The Holiday in Concert
Beloved Christmas romcom The Holiday (2006) is to be presented live in concert this festive season. The in-concert experience with a full orchestra and cinema size screen is an incredibly unique and immersive way to experience The Holiday, which has become a cult Christmas viewing experience for many.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Wed 10 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Love Actually in Concert
This Christmas, the star-studded Love Actually, perhaps one of the most quotable and adored Christmas films around, will be presented live in concert, with a full orchestra playing the score live-to-film.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Tue 16 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Christmas with Anton Du Beke
Embark on a dazzling journey into a festive wonderland as Strictly’s one and only Anton Du Beke brightens up your Christmas with his brand new show – Christmas with Anton Du Beke! The Ballroom King and Strictly Come Dancing judge joins forces with his dynamic live band, the incomparable vocalist Lance Ellington, and a troupe of extraordinary dancers, to bring you a magical evening of music, dance and laughter.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Sun 21 Dec
- 5pm
- More info
The Snowman – Film with Live Orchestra
A magical Christmas experience for the whole family. Make this Christmas truly unforgettable with a special screening of the beloved festive classic The Snowman, brought to life by a live performance from a professional orchestra.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Mon 22 Dec
- 1pm & 4pm
- More info
A Christmas Carol
Ring in the Christmas season with this exquisite performance of the Dickens’ festive classic, brought to life in vivid detail by Mat Jones. Mat’s one-man retelling, has been delighting audiences every December, ushering in the Christmas season with warmth and joy. Join us for this classic tale of Victorian Christmas and the redemption of London’s most memorable miser, as we follow Scrooge through his encounters with the spirits of Christmas.
- Friargate Theatre, York, YO1 9SL
- Thu 11 – Sat 13 Dec
- 7:30pm (4pm Sat matinee)
- More info
Christmas Inn Trouble
The nativity like never before! A Christmas show for families and children.
There is a lot of bother at The Bethlehem Inn and Spa. The taps are leaking, the rats are squeaking and the rooms are fit to burst. There are so many guests it’s impossible to park your camel and, if things weren’t bad enough, a rascally Roman soldier has come to make sure everything is above board…Join Riding Lights Theatre Company as they bring a Christmas comedy filled with silly shepherds, some very (un)wise men and a young family who have no idea what they’ve let themselves in for.
- Friargate Theatre, York, YO1 9SL
- Sat 20 – Wed 24 Dec
- Multiple times
- More info
Cheery carols
Some Voices Christmas Show
Some Voices presents A Christmas Choral. Hold on to your hats! This Dickens classic is getting the full Some Voices rework, with a wild line-up of songs taking us on the ultimate Christmas nostalgia deep dive. Swooning in the past, belting out the present, and rocking into the future: expect stunning harmonies and epic mash-ups, all with the SV festive flair you know and love. From classic Christmas crowd-pleasers to future festive floorfillers – get ready for a time-bending Christmas trip like no other.
- Theatre@41, 41 Monkgate, York, YO31 7PB
- Fri 28 Nov
- 7:30pm
- More info
York’s Annual Community Carol Concert
It just wouldn’t be Christmas without York’s Annual Community Carol Concert returning to York Barbican for yet another seasonal feast of your favourite Christmas carols and songs. Join Shepherd Brass Band, St Paul’s CE Primary School Choir, All Saints RC School Choir and Amber Ford with a special guest appearance of Ken Humphreys for an afternoon of Christmas cheer. Carol Concert regular, the popular Steve Cassidy, will be singing along with the ensemble, whilst the community singing will be led by Musical Director Mike Pratt. The event will be hosted by Rev Andrew Foster and Adam Tomlinson.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Sun 14 Dec
- 2pm
- More info
Sankta Lucia: Festival of Light
An atmospheric, candlelit procession and carol service for all the family based on the traditional Swedish Lucia celebration.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Mon 15 Dec
- 7pm
- More info
Choirs at Christmas
Join us for a heartwarming concert series filled with festive favourites, joyful harmonies and the spirit of togetherness all in support of the theatre and its community work. Featuring four different talented local choirs each night, this family-friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate your holiday season. Whether you love traditional carols, modern Christmas classics or simply the joy of live music, there’s something for everyone.
- Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York YO31 8TA
- Tue 16 – Thu 18 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Carols by Candlelight
Celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Chapter House Choir in the magnificent candlelit Nave of York Minster with this much-loved seasonal tradition. Directed by Ben Morris, the choir will perform a rich selection of carols both old and new, joined by the Chapter House Youth Choir, under the direction of Charlie Gower-Smith, alongside festive favourites from the Handbell Ringers of the Chapter House Choir.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Fri 19 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Merry music
York Early Music Christmas Festival
This year’s Christmas festival brings together seasonal music from across the ages with some of the most beautiful repertory from the likes of Haydn, Schumann and Mendelssohn thanks to mezzo-soprano Helen Charlston – performing alongside pianist Sholto Kynoch; and fellow BBC New Generation Artists the Consone String Quartet appearing together on the NCEM stage with the internationally acclaimed Chiaroscuro Quartet – presenting one of the most celebrated works in the classical repertory – Mendelssohn’s Octet.
- Multiple locations
- Fri 5 – Sun 14 Dec
- Multiple times
- More info
The Nutcracker
Enjoy a festive treat for all the family with a magical performance of The Nutcracker in York Minster’s spectacular Nave. Expect beautiful handmade puppets, spectacular organ music, imaginative storytelling and plenty of Christmas magic.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Sat 6 Dec
- 7pm
- More info
Kate Rusby
Kate Rusby celebrates 20 years of festive joy with this year’s tour, ‘Christmas Is Merry’—a heart-warming tradition for thousands of fans. Her pure, unmistakable voice breathes new life into traditional South Yorkshire carols, winter songs, and Christmas classics, creating an enchanting, magical atmosphere.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Thu 11 Dec
- 7pm
- More info
Big Christmas Concert 2025
Step into Christmas with York’s biggest festive musical spectacular the Big Christmas Concert. You’ll be greeted by a brass band, then taken on a journey through the Christmas classics. From soul stirring acoustic versions of your favourite carols to the old Christmas bangers from the Pogues and Slade. Treat yourself to a mulled wine, sing along, and embrace the magical fairytale ambiance of old York. As always there’ll be a Christmas game or two and festive jumpers and Christmas attire is optional but encouraged. With a fabulous PRIZE for the most outstanding costume!
- Q Church, 9 Priory Street, York YO1 6ET
- Fri 12 & Sat 13 Dec
- 7:45pm
- More info
Family Christmas with Prima Choral Artists
Join the singers of Prima Choral Artists and their wonderful guests for two joyful afternoons of Christmas favourites for all the family. Produced and conducted by Eve Lorian, and featuring the acclaimed New World String Quartet, Greg Birch on piano and James Webb on organ – this is the perfect way to celebrate Christmas in York!
Enjoy Prima’s high-spirited Christmas classics and modern choral arrangements of much-loved seasonal pieces, alongside stunning string repertoire including works by Tchaikovsky and Rebikov. This one-hour programme promises festive cheer for all ages.
- St Olave’s Church, York, Marygate, YO30 7DT
- Sat 13 & Sat 20 Dec
- 4pm
- More info
Mostly Autumn – Christmas Show!
Christmas in their home town! Mostly Autumn’s latest album ‘Graveyard Star’ released late 2021 has been very highly acclaimed and follows on from the nomination for best UK band, and best album (White Rainbow) in the Progressive Music Awards 2019. They were winners of Best Track (Sight of Day) and best female vocalist (Olivia Sparnenn-Josh) in the CRS awards 2017.
- The Crescent York, 8 The Crescent, York, YO24 1AW
- Sun 14 Dec
- 6:30pm
- More info
A Christmas Selection Box: A Music Night Production
Unwrap the magic of the season at A Christmas Selection Box, our much-loved annual music night packed with festive favourites, timeless classics, and a sprinkle of surprise! This heartwarming evening, in support of the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, features legendary York musician Don Pears and the vibrant voices of York choir Singphonia. Together, they’ll bring to life the joy, nostalgia and sparkle of Christmas.
- Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York YO31 8TA
- Sun 14 Dec
- 7pm
- More info
Fairytale at York Minster: Christmas Hits by Candlelight
In the stunning candlelit setting of York Minster, the mesmerising voice of Alistair Griffin and the elegant Ebor Quartet bring you all the Christmas classics. You’ll hear Fairytale of New York, Last Christmas, Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree and more, reimagined alongside the stirring beauty of O Holy Night and the magical Home Alone theme.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Wed 17 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
New York Brass Band – Christmas Parties!
New York Brass Band return to The Crescent in York for it’s mega two night Christmas Party on 18th and 19th December. It’s a perfect time to meet up with family, friends or colleagues before Christmas to enjoy a night of New Orleans inspired brassy sounds with and order of Christmas tunes on the side.
- The Crescent York, 8 The Crescent, York, YO24 1AW
- Thu 18 – Fri 19 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Gala Christmas Concert
Unwrap the magic of the season at A Christmas Selection Box, our much-loved annual music night packed with festive favourites, timeless classics, and a sprinkle of surprise! This heartwarming evening, in support of the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, features legendary York musician Don Pears and the vibrant voices of York choir Singphonia. Together, they’ll bring to life the joy, nostalgia and sparkle of Christmas.
- Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York YO31 8TA
- Fri 19 – Sat 20 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Step Into Christmas
Step Into Christmas for the most magical show of the year. This Christmas feel-good show brings all the magic of the season to life, with all your favourite songs you will know and love! Including – All I Want for Christmas Is You, Last Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock, Stay Another Day, Let it Snow, White Christmas, Do They Know it’s Christmas, A Winter’s Tale, Merry Xmas Everybody, and many many more!
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Sat 20 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Special services
Advent Procession
Join York Minster’s worship to mark the start of Advent with an atmospheric and breath-taking candlelit service of music, readings and prayers.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Sun 30 Nov
- 5:30pm
- More info
Nine Lessons and Carols
Two services consisting of nine special readings, music sung by the Choir of York Minster, and well-loved Christmas carols for everyone to join in with. A traditional Christmas celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Tue 23 – Wed 24 Dec
- 4pm
- More info
Frosty fairs
Festive Indoor Market
Join us this November for our popular Indoor Festive Market with a fantastic range of local businesses showcasing their products across our staterooms. Browse, stock up and treat yourselves or loved ones from the fantastic range of stalls over three days, items ranging from fudges, gifts, toys and much much more. Start your Christmas shopping in style at Carlton Towers and come along to our Festive Indoor Market.
- Carlton Towers, Carlton, DN14 9LZ
- Fri 9 – Sun 11 Nov
- 4-8pm (Fri), 10am – 4pm (Sat-Sun)
- More info
York Vegan Christmas Festival 2025
Yorkshire’s biggest Vegan extravaganza is coming to York! The York Vegan Christmas Festival will feature over 50 stalls, with world food caterers, cakes, dairy and meat alternatives, clothing, juice and smoothies, healthy treats and more.
- York Railway Institute, 24 Queen Street, York YO24 1AD
- Sun 14 Dec
- 10:30am – 4:30pm
- More info
Christmas crafts
Wreath Making Workshop in the Garden Centre
A practical two-hour session making a Christmas wreath using natural materials. All materials are provided, and tea and coffee are included. Add a glass of Nyetimber English Sparkling Wine for extra Christmas sparkle if you are joining us for an evening session. For age 16+. Only 10 tickets available per session!
- Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA
- 20, 21, 27, 28 Nov & 4, 5, 11, 12 Dec
- Various times
- More info
Festive Macramé Decorations Workshop
Create your very own festive macramé decorations in three different styles. Embrace your creative side in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere! Full guidance will be given throughout as you master the art of macramé. Suitable for both absolute beginners and those with some experience of macramé. All materials and guidance will be provided on the day, with a choice of ribbons available to personalise! Led by York designer Hannah Sibai of Dear Prudence Macramé
- Carlton Towers, Carlton, DN14 9LZ
- Sat 22 Nov
- 10am – 12pm
- More info
A Crafty Christmas at Bedern Hall
Join us for a festive Christmas Wreath Making Workshop, perfect for crafters and makers eager to add a personal touch to their homes this Christmas. Set in a warm and welcoming space, You’ll be guided in designing and creating your own beautiful wreath using seasonal foliage, berries, ribbons, and more. Plus, enjoy a delicious lunch with fellow participants, making it the ideal day to embrace the Christmas spirit and create something truly special!
- Bedern Hall, Saint Andrewgate, York YO1 7AL
- Fri 5 Dec
- 11am
- More info
More Xmas treats
Bongo’s Bingo’s Christmas Cracker
Be transported back to the time where coloured tree lights and flammable tinsel rained supreme. Prepare yourself for the ultimate nostalgic Christmas experience – all the best Christmas tunes, dodgy Santa Clauses and foil cracker hats. It’ll almost be like you’re back in your gran’s living room, except you’re shouting d*ckhead at strangers, voting on dance offs and raving at a bingo show.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Fri 12 Dec
- 9pm
- More info
