Last updated: 11 November 2024
Experience the thrill of the holidays in Acton! Our guide highlights all the top festive events and activities. Whether you're a local or a traveler, our guide unlocks the festive treasures of Acton.
One of the highlights this holiday season is the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park, where visitors can immerse themselves in a magical Christmas market, featuring twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and artisan stalls. Another feature of this event includes thrilling amusement rides that promise excitement for all ages. And the enchanting ice skating rink is something you definitely don't want to miss. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Acton Holiday Light Displays
The Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
- What to Expect
- Annual gift from Norway symbolizing gratitude and solidarity.
- Description
- The Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree is a 50-60 year old Norwegian spruce, over 20 meters tall, gifted by Oslo to London each year since 1947 as a token of gratitude for Britain's support during World War II. The tree is selected with great care, felled in November, and decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion with energy-efficient lights.
- Where
- London | More Info : The Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree
Kenwood Christmas Lights Trail
- What to Expect
- Festive illumination of historic gardens and parkland.
- Description
- Kenwood Christmas Lights Trail features a beautifully illuminated trail through the historic gardens and parkland of Kenwood House, showcasing stunning artwork and festive decorations.
- Where
- London | More Info : Kenwood Christmas Lights Trail
Christmas at Kew
- What to Expect
- Illuminated botanical garden with festive food and drink options.
- Description
- Stroll through a botanical world filled with twinkling lights and seasonal sounds. Discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like colour. Enjoy larger-than-life illuminations, mesmerising flickering flames, and festive street food vendors offering hot food, sweet treats, and spiced winter warmers.
- Where
- Richmond | More Info : Christmas at Kew
Gardens Aglow at Heritage Museum and Gardens
- What to Expect
- Extensive outdoor lighted pathways and interactive activities.
- Description
- Gardens Aglow at Heritage Museum and Gardens features beautiful light displays, festive seasonal décor, and various fun activities. Visitors can explore the J.K. Lilly III Automobile Gallery, ride the 1908 Looff carousel, and enjoy lighted gardens with family and friends. Activities include roasting marshmallows, participating in a reindeer scavenger hunt, and enjoying seasonal treats.
- Where
- Acton | More Info : Gardens Aglow at Heritage Museum and Gardens
Christmas at Kew
- What to Expect
- Illuminated botanical garden with festive food and drink options.
- Description
- Christmas at Kew is a spectacular light trail through the Royal Botanic Gardens, featuring twinkling lights, festive sounds, and seasonal delights. The event includes glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections, and larger-than-life illuminations. Visitors can enjoy delicious independent street food vendors and festive treats along the trail.
- Where
- Richmond | More Info : Christmas at Kew
Christmas Special Bus Tours
- What to Expect
- Paddington-themed afternoon tea with Christmas lights.
- Description
- Embark on a delightful Christmas Special Bus Tour through Central London, featuring Paddington-themed afternoon tea and spectacular Regent Street Christmas Lights.
- Where
- London | More Info : Christmas Special Bus Tours
Christmas at Kew
- What to Expect
- Illuminated botanical garden with festive food and drink vendors.
- Description
- Christmas at Kew is a spectacular event at the Royal Botanic Gardens, featuring a 3km light trail with twinkling lights, dancing lakeside reflections, and larger-than-life illuminations. The event includes festive food and drink vendors, a fairground with rides, and the opportunity to see Father Christmas. It is a family-friendly event that offers a unique and memorable experience during the holiday season.
- Where
- Richmond | More Info : Christmas at Kew
Acton Holiday Markets and Shopping
West Norwood Feast
- What to Expect
- Community-driven market with diverse local vendors and family-friendly entertainment.
- Description
- West Norwood Feast is a vibrant, volunteer-powered street market festival held on the first Sunday of every month from April to December. It features over 100 market stalls offering artisanal goods, fresh produce, and street food, along with free live music and kids' activities.
- Where
- London | More Info : West Norwood Feast
Turning Earth Highgate Winter Market
- What to Expect
- Unique handmade ceramics and live music in a historic setting.
- Description
- Turning Earth Highgate Winter Market features over 110 talented ceramic makers showcasing their vibrant and unique handmade ceramics in a beautifully restored 1930s industrial building. The event includes live music, mulled wine, and artisanal food, making it an ideal occasion for Christmas shopping or indulging in ceramic treasures.
- Where
- London | More Info : Turning Earth Highgate Winter Market
Christmas Markets at Winter Wonderland
- What to Expect
- Extensive selection of artisanal goods and decorations.
- Description
- The Christmas Market at Winter Wonderland features a variety of stalls selling handcrafted gifts, Christmas decorations, and unique souvenirs, creating a vibrant shopping experience amidst festive lights and sounds.
- Where
- London | More Info : Christmas Markets at Winter Wonderland
Christmas Markets at Winter Wonderland
- What to Expect
- Extensive food and drink options from around the world.
- Description
- Explore a variety of international cuisines, including traditional German fare, mulled wine, and live music in a jovially decorated setting. Enjoy festive cocktails at Bar Ice and sample sweet treats like churros, crepes, and hot chocolate.
- Where
- London | More Info : Christmas Markets at Winter Wonderland
Christmas Markets at Winter Wonderland
- What to Expect
- Extensive selection of artisanal goods and seasonal items.
- Description
- The Christmas Market at Winter Wonderland features a variety of stalls selling handcrafted gifts, Christmas decorations, and unique souvenirs, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.
- Where
- London | More Info : Christmas Markets at Winter Wonderland
Acton Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Carol singing in Trafalgar Square
- What to Expect
- Traditional carol singing sessions under the Christmas Tree.
- Description
- Join carol singing groups at the base of the Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square for an intimate and enjoyable experience. Sessions are one hour long and are available throughout December, maintaining a traditional form of carol singing without PA systems or stages.
- Where
- London | More Info : Carol singing in Trafalgar Square
Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
- What to Expect
- UK's largest open-air ice rink and diverse festive attractions.
- Description
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a large-scale Christmas event featuring an ice skating rink, carnival rides, festive markets, and live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy traditional German cuisine, mulled wine, and themed bars amidst a picturesque setting.
- Where
- London | More Info : Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
Ice Skating at Winter Wonderland
- What to Expect
- Largest open-air ice rink in the UK.
- Description
- Glide into the festive season on the UK’s largest open-air ice rink, set under a picturesque canopy of twinkly lights and built around Hyde Park’s iconic Victorian bandstand.
- Where
- London | More Info : Ice Skating at Winter Wonderland
St-Martin-in-the-Fields’ pop-up Winter Bar
- What to Expect
- Cozy winter drinks in a festive setting.
- Description
- St Martin-in-the-Fields' pop-up Winter Bar offers a cozy haven in central London with mulled wine, Christmas cocktails, and hot chocolates, perfect for unwinding on chilly evenings.
- Where
- London | More Info : St-Martin-in-the-Fields’ pop-up Winter Bar
Hackney Empire Pantomime: Aladdin
- What to Expect
- Clive Rowe's iconic portrayal of Dame Twankey.
- Description
- The Hackney Empire Pantomime: Aladdin features Clive Rowe as the iconic Dame Twankey, bringing the classic tale to life with spirited performances and a dastardly villain.
- Where
- London | More Info : Hackney Empire Pantomime: Aladdin
Christmas at Eltham Palace
- What to Expect
- Interactive storytelling and character encounters in an art-deco mansion.
- Description
- At Eltham Palace, immerse yourself in a theatrical Christmas adventure where Father Christmas needs your help to restore the true meaning of Christmas. Journey through enchanted rooms, meet delightful characters, and uncover the essence of the season. Enjoy interactive storytelling, captivating performances, and plenty of photo opportunities.
- Where
- London | More Info : Christmas at Eltham Palace
Christmas with the Back Bay Ringers
- What to Expect
- Celebrating 100 years of handbell ringing in Boston.
- Description
- Join the Back Bay Ringers as they celebrate their 20th Anniversary Season with a concert featuring a dazzling array of handbells, chimes, and other percussion. The event will celebrate the long history of handbell ringing in Boston, focusing on the incredible Beacon Hill Ringers who are celebrating their 100th anniversary this year. The program is inspired by classic carols performed by the Beacon Hill Ringers in Louisberg Square each year on Christmas Eve.
- Where
- Acton | More Info : Christmas with the Back Bay Ringers
Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
- What to Expect
- Largest open-air ice rink in the UK with over 100,000 lights.
- Description
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a six-week event featuring a variety of attractions, activities, entertainment, food, and drinks. It includes an ice rink, themed bars, circus shows, and festive markets.
- Where
- London | More Info : Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
London Festive Boat Party
- What to Expect
- Silent disco experience with 3 DJs and stunning Thames views.
- Description
- Join Silent Sounds for an unforgettable festive trip and silent disco on the Thames, cruising past London's iconic sights while dancing to Christmas anthems and classics.
- Where
- London | More Info : London Festive Boat Party
Ice Skating at Winter Wonderland
- What to Expect
- Largest open-air ice rink in the UK.
- Description
- The UK's largest open-air ice rink, set under a picturesque canopy of twinkly lights and built around Hyde Park's iconic Victorian bandstand, offers a thrilling ice skating experience for all ages.
- Where
- London | More Info : Ice Skating at Winter Wonderland
Dance into 2024
- What to Expect
- Illustrated lecture on cultural traditions with award announcement.
- Description
- The Katharine Briggs Lecture and Book Award 2024 features an illustrated lecture by Dr. Doc Rowe on historic and contemporary approaches to cultural traditions, followed by the announcement of the award winner and a special presentation to Prof. Ronald Hutton.
- Where
- London | More Info : Dance into 2024
Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
- What to Expect
- Extensive array of festive attractions and entertainment.
- Description
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a six-week event featuring over 200 activities, including ice skating, roller coasters, and festive shows. Enjoy traditional German cuisine, mulled wine, and live music in a beautifully decorated setting. Explore the Magical Ice Kingdom, ride the Giant Observation Wheel, and visit Santa's grotto.
- Where
- London | More Info : Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park
London Festive Boat Party
- What to Expect
- Silent disco with multiple DJs and stunning Thames views.
- Description
- Join the Silent Sounds Christmas Special on the Thames for an unforgettable night of dancing and drinking while cruising past London's iconic landmarks. Enjoy a silent disco with three DJs playing house, hip hop, pop, and rock, and pick your channel on the headphones to create your own party soundtrack. The event features two large indoor dance floors and a bar on each deck, ensuring a lively and memorable experience.
- Where
- London | More Info : London Festive Boat Party
Ice Skating at Winter Wonderland
- What to Expect
- Largest open-air ice rink in the UK.
- Description
- Glide into the festive season on the UK’s largest open-air ice rink, set under a picturesque canopy of twinkly lights and built around Hyde Park’s iconic Victorian bandstand.
- Where
- London | More Info : Ice Skating at Winter Wonderland
Acton Other Holiday Activities
Njinga Santa Charity Cycle
- What to Expect
- Charity bike ride delivering gifts to children with life-limiting illnesses.
- Description
- Join Njinga Cycling for their 12th Annual Santa Charity Cycle, a 17km ride from Richmond to Hampton, delivering gifts to children at Shooting Star Children's Hospice. Participants must wear a Santa suit and bring a gift for a child.
- Where
- London | More Info : Njinga Santa Charity Cycle
London Festive Boat Party
- What to Expect
- Silent disco experience with multi-channel DJs and stunning Thames views.
- Description
- Join Silent Sounds for an unforgettable Christmas special silent disco boat party on the Thames. Cruise past London's iconic sights while dancing to disco classics, rock, pop, and Christmas hits. Choose your channel on the headphones and enjoy an epic night out with friends or company.
- Where
- London | More Info : London Festive Boat Party
Christmas Special Bus Tours
- What to Expect
- Paddington-themed afternoon tea with a guided animation of London landmarks.
- Description
- Embark on a Paddington-themed afternoon tea bus tour through Central London, passing iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Enjoy a specially crafted menu featuring the best marmalade sandwiches, along with a Paddington-guided animation of the tour. This delightful experience is available daily, with options for traditional, vegan, vegetarian, halal, and gluten-free dietary choices.
- Where
- London | More Info : Christmas Special Bus Tours
Thames River Cruises
- What to Expect
- Scenic river cruise with live expert commentary.
- Description
- Embark on a 40-minute circular sightseeing boat tour along the River Thames, witnessing iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Tower of London. Expert commentary in multiple languages provides a comprehensive view of London's history and landmarks.
- Where
- London | More Info : Thames River Cruises
Urban Axe-Throwing
- What to Expect
- Competitive axe-throwing with drinks and snacks.
- Description
- Urban Axe-Throwing offers a unique blend of competitive fun and social interaction, providing each player with drinks and snacks, including pizza.
- Where
- London | More Info : Urban Axe-Throwing
Christmas Special Bus Tours
- What to Expect
- Interactive Paddington-guided animation and a variety of dietary options.
- Description
- Embark on a Paddington-themed afternoon tea bus tour through Central London, featuring iconic landmarks and a delightful menu.
- Where
- London | More Info : Christmas Special Bus Tours
Thames River Cruises
- What to Expect
- Scenic river cruise with live commentary.
- Description
- Embark on a 40-minute circular boat tour along the River Thames, witnessing iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Tower Bridge. Expert commentary in multiple languages provides insights into London's history and top landmarks.
- Where
- London | More Info : Thames River Cruises
Unseen Tours
- What to Expect
- Guided tours by formerly homeless individuals offering a unique perspective on London's history and culture.
- Description
- Unseen Tours offers unique walking experiences in London, led by guides who have been affected by homelessness. These tours provide a genuine perspective on the city's history and culture, while also challenging perceptions about homelessness and generating social change.
- Where
- London | More Info : Unseen Tours
Formula 1 Exhibition
- What to Expect
- Interactive exhibits showcasing Formula 1's history and innovations.
- Description
- The Formula 1 Exhibition in London offers an immersive journey through the history, present, and future of Formula 1, featuring iconic cars, rare artefacts, and interactive elements including racing simulators.
- Where
- London | More Info : Formula 1 Exhibition
Koestler Awards Exhibition
- What to Expect
- Celebrating artistic expression from diverse backgrounds.
- Description
- The Koestler Awards Exhibition showcases the artistic talents of prisoners and individuals in secure settings, featuring a diverse range of visual art, design, music, poetry, film, and performance.
- Where
- London | More Info : Koestler Awards Exhibition
The 411 Stock Market Night
- What to Expect
- Interactive drink pricing based on demand.
- Description
- At The 411, experience a unique twist on nightlife with Wall Street Wednesdays, where drink prices fluctuate in real-time based on demand. Enjoy live music, comfort food, and interactive games like beer pong and pool.
- Where
- London | More Info : The 411 Stock Market Night
Discovery Woods Winter Fun
- What to Expect
- Year-round accessible outdoor play environment.
- Description
- Discovery Woods Winter Fun features a fully accessible treehouse and nature playscape, offering a year-round outdoor play experience.
- Where
- Acton | More Info : Discovery Woods Winter Fun
Free Admission Day – Celebrate The Holidays At The Ecotarium
- What to Expect
- Interactive science and animal encounters during the holiday season.
- Description
- Celebrate the holidays at the EcoTarium with interactive science programs, animal encounters, and a private collection of thousands of specimens. Enjoy STEAM Story Time, Tots' Exploration Station, and Budding Scientists programs designed for young children.
- Where
- Acton | More Info : Free Admission Day – Celebrate The Holidays At The Ecotarium
Thames River Cruises
- What to Expect
- Scenic river cruise with live commentary and onboard refreshments.
- Description
- Embark on a 40-minute circular sightseeing boat tour along the River Thames, witnessing iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Tower of London. Expert commentary is provided in multiple languages, and refreshments are available on board.
- Where
- London | More Info : Thames River Cruises
ECLIPSE: A solo exhibition by NONOTAK
- What to Expect
- An immersive art experience combining light and sound in a contemporary setting.
- Description
- This exhibition showcases the innovative work of NONOTAK, featuring mesmerizing installations that blend light and sound. Visitors can immerse themselves in a unique artistic experience where digital visuals interact seamlessly with auditory elements. The ambiance fosters a contemplative space, encouraging reflection on the convergence of technology and art.
- Where
- London | More Info : ECLIPSE: A solo exhibition by NONOTAK