Last updated: November 11, 2024
Prepare for an exciting holiday adventure in Bow! Discover all the top festive events with our guide. For Bow residents and guests, our guide showcases the top holiday events.
One must-see attraction is the captivating Christmas at Kew, where the gardens are transformed into a glittering spectacle of lights and decorations, offering a magical stroll through a winter wonderland. The festive charm of the Covent Garden Christmas market is another delight, featuring unique artisan stalls and seasonal treats that encapsulate the spirit of the season. And the Southbank Centre Winter Market is something you definitely don't want to miss, with its lively atmosphere and fantastic food options. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Contact information and details below.
Illuminated botanical garden with festive food and drink options.
Christmas at Kew is a spectacular light trail through the Royal Botanic Gardens, featuring twinkling lights, seasonal sounds, and festive food vendors.
Where: London | More Info: Christmas at Kew
Traditional Christmas decorations and interactive photo opportunities.
Covent Garden transforms into a vibrant holiday destination with over 40 gigantic bells, 12 giant baubles, and 8 spinning mirror balls adorning the iconic Market Building. The 60-foot Christmas tree in the West Piazza and the reconditioned 1884 Santa sleigh, hand-painted by British artist James Gemmill, offer prime photo opportunities. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, festive menus, and holiday shopping across hundreds of brands.
Where: London | More Info: Covent Garden Christmas
Traditional alpine-style chalets with diverse food and gift options.
The Southbank Centre Winter Market offers a delightful array of traditional alpine-style chalets along the Thames, featuring indulgent drinks, scrumptious street food, and a variety of gifts and decorations made by independent craft traders.
Where: London | More Info: Southbank Centre Winter Market
Unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment along the River Thames.
London Bridge City's Winter by the River is a vibrant holiday market offering a diverse array of artisan gifts, seasonal treats, and festive drinks. Enjoy stunning city and river views while exploring themed stalls and participating in activities like karaoke and choirs.
Where: London | More Info: London Bridge City Winter by the River
Seasonal shopping with diverse gifts and street food.
The Old Spitalfields Christmas Market offers a diverse array of seasonal items, unique gifts, and delicious street food, creating a vibrant shopping experience.
Where: London | More Info: The Old Spitalfields Christmas Market
Immersive theatrical experience with interactive storytelling and character encounters.
At The Spirit of Christmas at Eltham Palace, embark on an immersive theatrical journey through the stunning art-deco mansion. Meet delightful characters, uncover the essence of the season, and encounter Father Christmas in a heart-warming encounter. Interactive storytelling and captivating performances await, along with plenty of photo opportunities.
Where: London | More Info: The Spirit of Christmas at Eltham Palace
Unique blend of storytelling and puppetry brings the North Pole to life.
Join Santa as he awakes from a dream of sun, sea, and sand to find it is the busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve. Watch as he prepares for his Christmas deliveries, feeds his reindeer, and finally takes flight into the snowy night. This charming show, based on the classic book by Raymond Briggs, features storytelling, puppetry, and stunning design.
Where: London | More Info: Raymond Briggs’ Father Christmas at Lyric Hammersmith
Live characters and theatrical battle between Nutcracker and Mouse King.
Step into the world of The Nutcracker at Leeds Castle, where beautifully decorated rooms and live performances bring the classic tale to life. Explore a winter wonderland filled with towering nutcracker soldiers, shimmering snowflakes, and elegant ballerinas. Meet live characters inspired by the story, and marvel at stunning Christmas trees. This event includes a thrilling showdown between the Nutcracker and the crafty Mouse King, with live performances on weekends and during school holidays.
Where: Maidstone | More Info: Christmas at Narnia
Interactive Christmas show with a giant bear and festive joy.
Join Santa's Elves as they find a bag of untouched Christmas letters and embark on a chaotic journey to ensure every child has a gift on Christmas morning. With joyful singing, dancing, magic, and lots of silliness, this interactive production is perfect for families of all ages.
Where: London | More Info: The Elves and the Magic Bear
Unique interconnecting ice rinks with a 30ft Christmas tree.
Glide at Battersea Power Station is an open-air ice rink set against the backdrop of one of London's most iconic buildings. It features three interconnecting rinks surrounded by twinkling lights and a 30ft Christmas tree. The rink offers a variety of activities, including vintage-style fairground rides, live entertainment, and photo booths. Skaters of every level can enjoy the space and time to show off their skills, while off the ice, guests can enjoy a selection of food and drink venues.
Where: London | More Info: Glide at Battersea Power Station
Historic ice skating experience with environmental initiative support.
Skate through history at Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink, set against the backdrop of Henry VIII's historic home. Enjoy festive refreshments and extend your visit to explore the palace gardens and historic chocolate kitchen.
Where: London | More Info: Hampton Court ice rink
Immersive Christmas experience with iconic Harry Potter sets dressed in filmmaking snow.
Step into the Great Hall, adorned with gold decorations from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, and enjoy a mouth-watering banquet. Explore iconic sets like the Gryffindor Boys' Dormitory and Diagon Alley, transformed for Christmas scenes. Discover authentic decorations and handmade Christmas cards created by the crew during filming. Visit the snow-covered Forbidden Forest and Hogwarts Castle model, and browse the Christmas shop for exclusive gifts and souvenirs.
Where: Watford | More Info: Hogwarts in the Snow
Interactive breakfast with Santa and festive activities.
Join Santa's Secret Village at Hobbledown Heath for a delightful Christmas experience. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet with pancakes and full English options, meet Father Christmas, and participate in festive storytime. Explore the transformed village with twinkling lights and treat trails.
Where: Hounslow | More Info: Santa’s Secret Village at Hobbledown Heath