Ilkeston Other Christmas Activities 2026

Children meet Santa Claus and listen to a festive Christmas story. Attendees can take part in a seasonal craft activity, and each child receives a gift from Santa. Families can also complete a Christmas trail throughout the museum.

Psychic medium Sevren delivers audience readings throughout the evening, connecting with individuals he feels drawn to. Guests can browse stalls selling crystals, handmade goods, and new age products, as well as purchase hot and cold drinks during the interval. The...

Visitors gather to celebrate the start of Festive Derby as the city's Christmas lights illuminate the streets. The event features live entertainment and community performances, along with a spectacular lantern parade presented by Surtal Arts.

Visitors journey through an expanded Victorian Village, decorate gingerbread treats, and meet reindeer and an interactive talking polar bear. Children enjoy a personalized visit with Father Christmas and choose a present to take home. Tickets also grant access to the...

Visitors can watch Santa make a grand entrance down Lime Tree Avenue in a parade featuring the Rother Valley Working Newfoundlands and elves. Families can enjoy a vintage funfair with attractions like the Sea on Land ride, Hook-a-Duck, and a...

Passengers board a festive steam train for a return journey through the scenic Derwent Valley. A variety of professional entertainers perform throughout the trip, while Santa and his helpers make their way through the carriages to greet every guest at...

Visitors embark on an outdoor adventure through the parkland to discover six themed stations hidden along the paths. Families can search for trail clues, join in seasonal games, and explore the winter woodland landscape together.

Participants complete a 5-kilometer marshaled and signposted route along the river by running, jogging, or walking. The race village is situated inside the Big Shed at the Trent Navigation, featuring warm indoor space, hot refreshments, toilets, and a secure bag...

Participants learn how to shape willow into a wreath base and design a holiday decoration using locally sourced natural materials. The session includes a mince pie paired with a cuppa or mulled wine, as well as day parking on site.

Participants create a custom front door wreath using fresh foliage, natural decorations, ribbons, and festive embellishments. The workshop provides step-by-step instruction alongside all necessary tools and crafting materials. Guests receive a welcome drink on arrival, seasonal treats, and access to...

Participants handcraft a 24-day wax melt advent calendar, blending seasonal fragrances and adding colours, glitters, botanicals, and decorative embeds. All wax-making materials, tools, and an advent calendar presentation box are supplied alongside step-by-step guidance. Admission includes a festive welcome drink,...

Participants design and craft custom Christmas baubles, ornaments, gift tags, and trinket dishes using air-dry clay, stamps, and cutters with step-by-step guidance. Materials such as twine and ribbon are supplied to finish hanging decorations. The session includes a complimentary festive...

Participants paint a selection of ceramic Christmas baubles using festive colours, patterns, and provided decorating materials. Step-by-step guidance is provided throughout the workshop, and guests can take their completed baubles home. The session includes unlimited access to a speciality tea...

Participants bring old, unwanted, or broken plastic Christmas baubles to transform them into a handmade wreath. The session includes step-by-step guidance along with wreath bases, fixing materials, decorative ribbons, and extra baubles if needed. Attendees also have access to an...

Children’s author Ellen Nancy presents Tales of Beebank Wood in an enchanting, heartwarming Christmas storytelling session. Families can also get creative together by taking part in a festive craft activity. The session is tailored for young children and their accompanying...

Participants create their own handmade wreath using a selection of fresh seasonal foliage and decorations to take home. Each attendee receives a complimentary festive drink and a mince pie upon arrival.

Craft and Bloom guides attendees through the process of making a bespoke Christmas wreath. All crafting materials are provided to create a finished wreath to take home for the front door.

Participants craft their own festive wreath using a selection of fresh seasonal foliage and decorations. Designed for all skill levels, the workshop includes a complimentary festive drink and a mince pie on arrival to enjoy while crafting.

Participants learn step-by-step techniques to assemble a Christmas wreath using seasonal foliage, natural materials, and festive botanical details. Florist Kirsty Noble guides attendees through classic or contemporary designs. Ticket holders receive all crafting materials, festive refreshments, and take home their...

Participants create a handmade holiday wreath using a selection of fresh seasonal foliage and decorations to take home. Designed for all skill levels, the session also provides attendees with a complimentary festive drink and a mince pie on arrival.

Crafting stations are positioned throughout the museum's Great Hall and classrooms. Visitors can try activities including calligraphy, card making, tissue flower art, print designing, and colour by numbers. Refreshments including cake, non-alcoholic beverages, wine, and mulled wine are available to...

Participants learn to weave Scandinavian-style star decorations and smaller bauble stars for indoor or outdoor display. Held in small groups of up to six people, the indoor workshop covers different willow types and weaving methods just metres from resident alpaca...

Participants learn how to make a holiday wreath from scratch during an in-person, hands-on crafting session. The workshop accommodates crafters of all skill levels, with attendees bringing home their completed wreaths.

Participants use natural materials and winter foliage to craft their own Christmas wreath under the guidance of tutor Jo. The workshop takes place inside the off-grid Strawbale building located within the Community Orchard. Sessions are limited to ten attendees and...

Experience the magic as Loughborough's Christmas lights are officially switched on, marking the start of the festive season. This beloved community event culminates with a lucky youngster having the honor of illuminating the town center, creating unforgettable memories for all...

Discover a magical Christmas season across the North East with the National Trust. Experience festive traditions at locations like Cragside, Wallington, and Gibside, featuring towering trees, illuminated landscapes, and charming house decorations. Families can enjoy meeting Father Christmas, storytelling, and...

Step into a winter wonderland at Santa's Frozen Adventure, a magical self-led walk through Wollaton Hall's lower basement. Decorated with a 'Festively Frozen' theme, the experience features Santa's helpers along the route. Children will have the delightful opportunity to meet...

Experience the festive spirit of Coalville during their annual Christmas celebration. This community event promises a heartwarming atmosphere with seasonal activities and local charm.

Experience a magical start to the Christmas season with Santa's Breakfast Bash at Wheelgate Park. Enjoy a delicious breakfast, meet Santa Claus himself, and receive a special gift from his workshop. The event includes full-day access to the park's festive...

Step back in time this holiday season at the 1620s House and Garden for a series of enchanting Christmas events. Experience the manor house adorned in traditional festive decor, offering a unique glimpse into historical celebrations. Enjoy atmospheric candlelit tours,...

A breakfast event for families includes festive movies and activities. Children can meet Santa Claus and receive a gift.

The Canine Partners Christmas Carol Service at All Saints Church, Loughborough, includes carols, an assistance dog demonstration, and a talk. Mince pies and mulled wine are served afterward.

Join the Institute of Advanced Studies for their inaugural Christmas Celebration. This in-person event on December 10th features a special performance by the Loughborough University Choir and an engaging arts-based workshop led by Doctoral Leader Yajie Hu. It's an afternoon...

Get into the holiday spirit by attending a luxury wreath-making workshop at Norwood Park, hosted by The Flower Shed. Participants will craft their own stunning Christmas wreath using premium seasonal foliage, berries, and dried flowers. Enjoy festive nibbles and a...

Unleash your creativity at this festive Gonk painting workshop. Held in the charming Courtyard Café, this class is perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike. You'll be guided step-by-step to create your own unique Gonk, with all materials provided. The...