Christmas in York in 2024 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.
Festive favourites
York Christmas Market
York’s award-winning Christmas Market is back! With 75 alpine chalets lining Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, the market offers a magical array of local crafts, artisan products, and delicious seasonal treats. The vintage carousel on King’s Square adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for families and visitors alike. With 80% 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 14 Nov – Sun 22 Dec 2024
- 10am – 7pm
- More info
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland offers 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 15 Nov 2024 – Sun 5 Jan 2025
- From 10am
- More info
Alice’s Christmas Wonderland
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.
CLW Event Design, the amazing team behind last year’s award winning Christmas in Neverland, are set to create our most fantastical experience yet, with the House transformed using theatrical installations to bring Lewis Carroll’s iconic characters to life. We are also thrilled to welcome back imitating the dog, who will once again create innovative projections and soundscapes.
- Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
- Fri 15 Nov 2024 – Sun 5 Jan 2025
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
Family fun
A Christmas Mousetery
The Fairfax Townmice are back this festive season for a classic whodunit, The Case of the Missing Ruby. It is Christmas morning and the family have awoken to discover the famous Fairfax ruby has been stolen by the dastardly Highway Mouse, but he did not act alone. You’ll need to play detective to help recover this precious jewel and discover who helped commit the crime. Examine the witness statements, solve the clues and catch the inside mouse!
- Fairfax House, Castlegate, York YO1 9RN
- Sat 9 Nov – Sun 5 Jan
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
An Inspired Christmas
This festive season, experience Christmas at Treasurer’s House. Inspired by the captivating stories of Frank Green and the people who helped him create the house, the decorations here are not always what you would expect. Many of the decorations you’ll see 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.
- Treasurer’s House, Minster Yard, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7JL
- Sat 16 Nov – Wed 18 Dec
- 11am – 4pm
- More info
Christmas at York Castle Museum
It’s cold outside, but in the warmth of our Victorian wonder, snow has settled on Kirkgate and our shops are wreathed in festive greenery, displaying seasonal objects from our acclaimed collection which take you back to yesteryear. Want to see the man himself? On Saturdays and selected weekdays leading up to the big day, as well as on Christmas Eve, a traditional Green Father Christmas will be wandering the snow-covered cobbles. Traditionally, a Green Father Christmas would talk of feasts, games, dancing and songs, bringing joy to everyone.
- York Castle Museum, Eye of York, York, YO1 9RY
- Sat 16 Nov – Sun 5 Jan
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
Magical Sleigh Rides at Piglets Adventure Farm
Join us for a magical sleigh ride and a heart-warming adventure. Soar through the trees on an enchanting sleigh ride and meander through our Woodland Village with treats and activities to enjoy at every turn. Meet our cheery elves along the way and the star of the show, Santa Claus himself!
- Piglets Adventure Farm, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York YO32 9ST
- Fri 22 Nov – Tue 24 Dec
- 10am – 5pm
- 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 23 Nov – Tue 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!
- Mother Shipton’s Cave, Prophecy Lodge, High Bridge, Knaresborough, HG5 8DD
- Sat 23 Nov – Tue 24 Dec
- 10am – 4:30pm
- More info
Gifts of Christmas at The Bar Convent
Invite your family and friends and celebrate Christmas with joy at the Bar Convent this holiday season! Our historic house is ready to sparkle with a twinkling tree, dazzling decorations, and a brand-new, eye-popping art exhibition as part of this year’s festive theme, ‘Gifts of Christmas!’ We have created an impressive collection of digital art inspired by Viborg, where heritage seamlessly intersects with cutting-edge technology.
- The Bar Convent Heritage Centre, 17 Blossom Street, York, YO24 1AQ
- Thu 28 Nov – Thu 19 Dec
- 10am – 5pm
- More info
NYMR Santa Specials
Come and join in the fun at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway this Christmas. Get in the festive spirit as you and your family start your adventure at our beautifully decorated Pickering Station. Our delightful brand-new Santa Specials experience offers a unique blend of nostalgia, tradition and festive fun for the whole family, ensuring that you’ll leave with memories to treasure for ever. The highlight of your day will be meeting Santa on board a festive steam train ride.
- North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Pickering Station, Pickering, YO18 7AJ
- 30 Nov, and 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 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.
- York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
- Sat 30 Nov – Sun 5 Jan 25
- 10am – 4pm
- More info
Malton Christmas Festival
Expect a fabulous weekend of festive fun in and around Malton’s picturesque Market Place, with delicious food and festive gift stalls, street food, live music from local brass bands and choirs and family entertainment. Malton’s shops will be packed with Christmas gift ideas too – stay a while longer and explore the many charming streets across town on your visit.
- Malton Market Place
- Sat 7 – Sun 8 Dec
- 9am – 3:30pm
- 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 Clubbercise and 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 8 Dec
- From 8:30am
- More info
Seasonal shows
Nativity!
Feel-good, funny and full of yuletide joy, Nativity! The Musical features all of the favourite sing-a-long hits from the films including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, She’s the Brightest Star and a whole host of new songs filled with the spirit of Christmas! A Pick Me Up Theatre Production.
- Grand Opera House York, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW
- Fri 22 – Sat 30 Nov
- Various times
- More info
Aladdin
Join us for a spectacular family pantomime! Cbeebies and CBBC superstar, Evie Pickerill, will bring her sparkle and flair as Spirit of the Ring! York favourite, Robin Simpson will be returning for another sensational show. Paul Hawkyard will be back for his third pantomime at YTR as the villainous Abanazar! Sario Soloman stars as the titular hero in his York debut, alongside the sensational Emily Tang and the hilarious Tommy Carmichael.
- York Theatre Royal, St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
- Tue 3 Dec 2024 – Sun 5 Jan 2025
- Various times
- More info
A Christmas Carol
Get into the Christmas spirit with The Duke’s Theatre Company’s first indoor season; a nail-biting retelling of perhaps the most famous ghost story of all time, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. An industry leading company of five professional actors transport us to Victorian London in a new adaptation featuring original music, theatrical magic and beautiful lighting.
- Carlton Towers, Carlton, DN14 9LZ
- Wed 4 – Thu 5 Dec
- 1pm & 7pm
- More info
Beauty and The Beast
The most enchanting pantomime of all time, Beauty & The Beast, comes to York with a sparkling fairy tale production for all the family. With an award-winning script by Jon Monie, a cast of larger than life characters, side-splitting comedy, sumptuous costumes, fabulous scenery, and a thrilling transformation scene.
- Grand Opera House, Cumberland Street, York YO1 9SW
- Sat 7 Dec 2024 – Sun 5 Jan 2025
- Various times
- More info
Mother Goose
Another Rollicking Romp of a Panto From Rowntree Players. It’s market day and Mother Goose needs to make rent before the ever nasty Demon Darkheart evicts the Goose family. Meantime Jack’s exciting new addition to the farm – Priscilla the Goose – has stopped production in Jill’s hen house. Comedy, song and dance in this very silly family pantomime.
- Joseph Rowntree Theatre, Haxby Road, York, YO31 8TA
- Sat 7 – Sun 8 & Tue 10 – Sat 14 Dec
- Various times
- 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
- Tue 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
- Fri 13 Dec
- 7:30pm
- 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
- Fri 13 – Sat 14 Dec
- 7:30pm
- 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
- Mon 16 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Cheery carols
York’s Annual Community Carol Concert
Join York RI Golden Rail Band, Knavesmire Primary School, Heworth Community Choir, and York’s very own West End showman, Ian Stroughair 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 co-hosted by Rev Andrew Foster and Adam Tomlinson.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Sun 15 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 16 Dec
- 7pm
- More info
Merry music
Candlelit Christmas
Enchanting harmonies beneath flickering flames: A timeless celebration of Christmas with our mesmerizing candlelit concert and captivating string quartet. The Ebor quartet will take you on a festive journey with classic Christmas songs, from the likes of The Pogues and George Michael to Christmas carol favourites. With vocals from the talented Alistair Griffin, treat yourself to a mulled wine and take in the magical atmosphere.
- St Olave’s Church, 29 Marygate, York YO30 7BJ
- Sat 7 Dec
- 8pm
- 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 7 Dec
- 7pm
- More info
The Snowman
Following a string of sold-out performances last December, Raymond Briggs’ magical Christmas story, The Snowman, returns to York this festive season with live music by the Shepherd Group Brass Band. Experience this iconic animated film on the big screen with Howard Blake’s timeless soundtrack performed by one of Yorkshire’s leading brass bands.
- Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall, Campus West, University of York
- Sun 8 Dec
- Multiple times
- More info
The Rat Pack at Christmas
Back by popular demand and following sell-out performances across the globe, The Definitive Rat Pack brings you an evening of festive classics, including White Christmas, Baby It’s Cold Outside, The Christmas Song and Let It Snow, plus all-time favourites including Mack the Knife, That’s Amore, Mr Bojangles and New York, New York. What better way to get into the festive spirit!
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Thu 12 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Swing Into Christmas
This is a Christmas celebration like no other, as Down for the Count recreate the music of Nat ‘King’ Cole, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra and many more in a luscious 30-piece orchestral setting evoking the sounds of the great Capitol Studios recordings.
- Central Hall, University of York, University Rd, Heslington, York YO10 5DD
- Sat 14 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info
Big Christmas Concert 2024
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.
- Q Church, 9 Priory Street, York YO1 6ET
- Sat 14 & 21 Dec
- 7:45pm
- More info
Kate Rusby
Forever proud to call herself a folk singer, Kate Rusby rounds off 2024 in style with her annual, and much anticipated, Christmas tour. Full of warmth, sparkles and her unique festive music featuring songs from her latest charting Christmas album ‘Light Years’ 2023 and her ever-popular previous six Christmas albums.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Tue 17 Dec
- 7pm
- More info
Christmas Greetings LIVE!
Experience an evening of Festive Classics and Live Ballet. Violinist Matt Glossop and the Bloomsbury Soloists brings LIVE Ballet to the magnificent Selby Abbey. Performing an enchanting and magical Christmas concert full of festive music classics including the most beautiful Christmas Ballet: The Nutcracker, Christmas Classic Songs and Movie Soundtracks with beautiful string arrangements.
- Selby Abbey, The Crescent, Selby YO8 4PU
- Wed 18 Dec
- 6pm & 8:30pm
- More info
Candlelit Choir & Jingles
Spend a candlelit evening enjoying festive music from local musicians/choirs whilst relaxing by the fires with a drink in hand. Includes a glass of mulled wine to enjoy on arrival.
- Carlton Towers, Carlton, DN14 9LZ
- Thu 19 Dec
- 6:30pm
- More info
Step Into Christmas
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
- Thu 19 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 1 Dec
- 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
- Sun 22 – Tue 24 Dec
- 4-5:30pm
- More info
Frosty fairs
Festive Indoor Market
Join us this November for our popular Indoor Festive Market filling across all our staterooms. Browse, view and treat yourselves from the fantastic range of stalls over three fantastic days, items ranging from fudges, gifts, toys and much much more.
- Carlton Towers, Carlton, DN14 9LZ
- Fri 8 – Sun 10 Nov
- 4-8pm (Fri), 10am – 4pm (Sat-Sun)
- More info
The Ivy Store at York Maze
Join us on for our annual festive shopping event! Think homewear, Christmas gifts, garden ornaments, toys, decorative items – perfect for your loved ones this festive season. Beat the rush of the high street and enjoy complimentary parking and tea & coffee whilst you shop. Plus, receive additional savings and offers on the day. Free to enter. No need to book, just turn up!
- York Maze, Elvington Lane, York, YO19 5LT
- Sat 16 Nov & Thu 5 Dec
- 10am – 3pm (Sat), 4-8pm (Thu)
- More info
Bluebird Bakery Christmas Makers Fair
The Bluebird Bakery Christmas Makers Fair is back! Full-to-the-brim with talented local artists & makers selling art prints, gifts, candles, jewellery, crafts, flowers and tons more.
Plus we’ll have our usual live orchestra or choir, lovely mull, hot chocolate (with or without a twist) and our famous mince pies & stollen.
- Bluebird Bakery, 201 Acomb Road, York, YO24 4HD
- Thu 21 Nov
- 5-9pm
- More info
The Yorkshire Yuletide Village
Experience the creativity of Yorkshire at Made in Yorkshire’s Markets, where some of the region’s finest designers and artisans showcase their work in the city’s heart. Visitors can explore a diverse selection of unique, design-led Christmas gifts, including jewellery, art, textiles, handcrafted soaps, photography, ceramics, sculptures, and delicious homemade jams and chutneys.
- The Guildhall, Coney St, York YO1 9QN
- Mon 2 – Fri 20 Dec
- 10am – 4:30pm
- More info
York Vegan Christmas Festival 2024
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 15 Dec
- 10:30am – 4:30pm
- More info
Christmas crafts
Willow Workshops at Castle Howard
Create a Christmas Willow Wreath or Willow Christmas Decoration at this practical workshop in the Castle Howard Garden Centre, led by expert willow artist Leilah Vyner from Dragon Willow. Relax into this creative crafting session with a complimentary hot drink, and take home your creation.
- Castle Howard, York YO60 7DA
- 24-25 Nov & 16-17 Dec
- Various times
- More info
Wreath Making Workshop
Join The Blonde & The Blooms, our inhouse florist for an expertly guided evening on how to create your very own Christmas wreath to hang proudly on your door in the lead up to the big day. All materials will be provided on the evening.
- Carlton Towers, Carlton, DN14 9LZ
- Thu 5 Dec
- 6pm
- More info
More Xmas treats
York Christmas Walking Tour 2024
Discover the History of Christmas in an extra-special walking tour through the twinkling streets of York. Join Sarah, your professional Blue Badge Tourist Guide, in a 90 minute Festive Walk through the twinkling streets of York, the original Christmas City.
- Meet at The Statue of Constantine, Minster Yard, York
- Thu 14 Nov – Tue 24 Dec
- 4-5:30pm
- More info
Christmas Ghost Stories
Following in the fine festive tradition of telling ghostly stories by the fireside, join Edwyrdian Tales for an evening of haunting dark delights set during Christmastide. Our night of seasonal spirits features terrors from some of the finest authors of their age… W. W. Jacobs, Algernon Blackwood and A. M. Burrage. Bone chilling tales to conjure the spirits of Christmas…A one-man performance, directed and haunted by Matthew Wood.
- Barley Hall, 3 Coffee Yard, York, YO1 8AR
- Fri 29 – Sat 30 Nov
- 7:30-9pm
- More info
Bongo’s Bingo Christmas
The award-winning night out combines the original and much-loved quaint past time with a mesmeric live show, packed full of plenty of bizarre and hilarious moments no-one experiences twice. With dance offs, rave rounds, and weird and wonderful prizes – Bongo’s Bingo is a night full of madness, mayhem and sheer joy that will keep you coming back for more.
- York Barbican, Paragon St, York, YO10 4AH
- Sat 14 Dec
- 7:30pm
- More info