A summary of What’s on, what to see and do in York over the next 7 Days. Updated 2nd December 2021
Step into Christmas in the heart of York as the festive season rolls into full swing. With a fantastic programme of magical events it really is the most wonderful time of the year. From music festivals to pantomimes and meeting Father Christmas himself you won’t be short of places to go in York this Christmas.
Yesterday was the launch of #VisitYorkAdvent over on our Twitter, featuring 24 days of giveaways in collaboration with local businesses. With prizes ranging from hotel stays to experience days, you won’t want to miss out on the chance of entering!
Discover #VisitYorkAdvent
Christmas Walking Tour Until Dec 24
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as you walk through the sparkling streets of York on a 90 minute guided tour. Discover the traditions and history of winter celebrations of Kings and Emperors, Warriors and the custodians of this festive city.
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All Gold Comedy Club Christmas Special Dec 2
Join some of the UK’s best comedians from All Gold Comedy Club for their first ever Christmas special at Impossible Wonderbar, York. Featuring two stars from Live at the Apollo and big names including Have I Got News For You and Mock the Week. Starring Hyde Panaser, Esther Manito, Brennan Reece and Yuriko Kotani so get your tickets now!
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York Early Music Christmas Festival Dec 3 – 11
Opening with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, the York Early Music Christmas Festival will introduce audiences to the extraordinary wealth of music associated with Advent, Christmas and Epiphany, from the Medieval to the Baroque, intertwined with the sagas, stories and tales of the north. Guests will include vocal specialists Siglo De Oro and The Gesualdo Six.
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Christmas Wreath Making Workshop Dec 4
Make your own wreath in the festive surroundings of the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall. Hosted by florist, flower grower and Heritage Consultant Esther Lockwood will guide you through the process of making your very own seasonal and sustainable wreath. Make sure your door is the best dressed in town this Christmas and get creative with fresh foliage and festive decorations.
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Big Christmas Concert Dec 3
The biggest Christmas concert in York is back! Taking place next to York Minster in the beautiful medieval St Michael Le Belfrey church, sing along to traditional Christmas carols from Wizard and Slade to The Pogues. Alistair Griffin’s Big Christmas concert will take you on a musical journey with classic Christmas tunes, brass bands, carols and bags of festive cheer.
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Cinderella Dec 3 – Jan 2
York Theatre Royal presents the most magical pantomime of all, Cinderella. A fabulous fun filled treat for the whole family, expect magic transformations, sparkling sets, stunning costumes, catchy songs and lots of laugh out loud comedy. Get your tickets before the clock strikes midnight!
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Christmas at Mother Shipton’s Until Dec 24
Wander through the gorgeous winter wonderland at Mother Shipton’s and enjoy a magical memory making experience as you meet Santa and his Elves and the Christmas village. Take an ‘Elfie with Father Christmas and visit the Elf Mail Post Office to post your letters to Santa.
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..from previous updates but still useful!
Santa’s Postbox Until Jan 6
Let your children enjoy the magic of Christmas and let them post their letters to Santa in a sparkling illuminated Santa’s Postbox which is positioned just inside the entrance to the Museum Gardens. Provided by the York BID, the Postbox will make sending a letter to Santa this year an extra special experience.
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The History of Christmas in York Tour Nov 26 – Jan 6
A truly unique experience for the whole family, take a magical tour through the historic streets of York and learn about the history of Christmas in the city. Bringing to life stories of how the Romans and Vikings introduced their customs into our celebrations and how the traditions of Christmas have evolved over the years.
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Cazoo Snooker UK Championship 2021 Until Dec 21
Experience the magic of live snooker at York Barbican, featuring 128 of the world’s top players battling for the famous trophy. In recent years, the UK championship has been won by top stars including Judd Trump, Ronnie O’Sullivan, John Higgins, Neil Robertson and Ding Junhui.
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Chocolate Making with Santa Until Dec 23
Meet Santa at a special themed tour at York’s Chocolate Story, from expert masterclasses to helping Santa create chocolate treats experience a fantastic family event with an extra sprinkling of festive fun.
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Christmas Festival at the Web Adventure Park Until Dec 21
Enjoy a magical festive experience at the Web Winter Wonderland and make some unforgettable memories this Christmas. Meet Santa and his elves, and real reindeers Donner and Blitzen. An exciting day with lots of festive fun, enjoy unlimited rides at the Christmas playground with thrills for all ages.
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Christmas At Treasurer’s House Until Dec 20
Returning once more is the season of garlands, twinkling lights and decorations around the historic house. The tours are on pause and visitors can free flow through the rooms, soaking in the atmosphere, the art and furniture and the spaces themselves. It’s the perfect place to get into the festive spirit and meet family and friends. (Sat – Weds 12-4pm).
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T’was the Night Before Christmas Until Dec 22
This festive season, two of York’s iconic brands have teamed up to offer a truly unique Christmas experience for all the family. York Mansion House has teamed up with York Cocoa Works to deliver a Georgian inspired, chocolatey Christmas affair. This new collaboration includes a confectionery workshop, a chocolate trail and a pop-up chocolate café and shop. Various bookable time slots.
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Get Festive at Fairfax House Until Jan 09
Journey through the magnificent townhouse and collections. Room by room, atmospheric and magical scenes display the generous gifts bequeathed to York Civic Trust for the benefit of the people of York. Meet Noel Terry for a 1940s family Christmas and discover the story behind the many splendid gifts he left to York.
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Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland Until Jan 9
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland is making a welcome return to McArthurGlen Designer Outlet York this winter. The popular outdoor ice rink, vintage funfair and Santa’s Grotto will return from 19 Nov with tickets on sale now.
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Christmas at the Moors National Park Centre Until Jan 16
Christmas trails, Magical Woodland Journeys and virtual Santas. There’s something for everyone at the Moors National Park Centre. If you’re looking for something fun and close to nature to do with the kids, then look no further, two amazing trails perfect for any young adventurer. With Santa being so busy this year, a virtual grotto has been created so no-one misses out!
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Sparkly York Gin Christmas Tastings Until Dec 20
The Sparkly York Gin Christmas Tasting is a festive, fun, fascinating and sparkly treat in the beautiful home of York Gin. As well as a Christmas gin cocktail, you’ll taste the whole York Gin range, learn lots and laugh lots.
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Christmas in Narnia Until Jan 02
Step through the wardrobe into an enchanting adventure at Castle Howard this festive season. An icy spell has been cast on this mystical land where it is always winter, but will Christmas spirits be restored and will warmth and joy return?
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A Kirkgate Christmas Tale Until Jan 02
Step foot into a Christmas tale at York Castle Museum this winter and rediscover all the magic of the season. The famous Victorian Street, Kirkgate, will be transformed into a snow-covered wonderland, where spectacular large-scale projections present a very special Christmas story.
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Be An Undercover Discoverer at Beningbrough Hall & Gardens Until Feb 27
When you visit the Beningbrough gardens this winter, wrap up, remember your pencil and pick up a free nature trail as you arrive. Follow the points in any order as you explore and uncover the secrets of the trees in the garden.
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York Photo Walks Until Dec 31
Learn how to make this most of photogenic city in this inspiring photography walk, with professional photographer Paula Duck. Get your camera ready, and snap away at York Minster, the city walls, the Shambles, Museum Gardens and Lendal Bridge, with top tips along the way.
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Archaeology Through the Lens Until April 3 2022
Load, compose, shoot and develop. Film cameras captured moments in time in a way that today’s digital imaging has forgotten. Head to this special exhibition now at DIG, looking through the archaeologist’s camera lens, delving into York Archaeological Trust’s archives.
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York Christmas Festival
It’s back! The charming alpine chalets will once again line the streets from 18 November to 23 December, with local businesses selling everything from handmade gifts to delicious treats. Enjoy the Christmas cheer on offer in one of the UK’s most festive cities as York’s restaurants, shops and attractions are beautifully decorated and provide a wonderful winter experience. For the perfect York Christmas, stay longer and give yourself a luxurious amount of time to soak up the festive atmosphere. Read our brand new guide to all things Christmas in York and beyond.
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Sneak preview York Ice Trail for 2022
We are delighted to bring you the news that York’s Ice Trail is set to return on 5 & 6 February 2022. More details to follow with around 40 sculptures across the city. Here’s a little taster of what’s to come. It’s time to get frosty!
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2021 York Christmas Guide
Start planning now to make the most of Christmas in York. Our 2021 Christmas Guide is packed with festive inspiration, and available to flick through online. The guide is also downloadable.
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Light, Glass & Stone conserving the St Cuthbert Window Until 1 Jan 2022
Explore the Medieval St Cuthbert Window through the new exhibition which tells the story of the life and miracles of Northern England’s most magnificent of Saints.
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Cruise the Ouse
You can once again hop aboard a City Cruises boat and see York from a whole new perspective, while getting fascinating insights into the history and features along the river.
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Green Spaces in York
While of course we must remain home as much as we can, it’s still important we stretch our legs and enjoy some fresh air. The beautiful Museum Gardens, Dean’s Park and Rowntree Park (complete with cafe overlooking the park and river) are all open for just this purpose. Or simply get your steps in whilst strolling along your favourite section of the City Walls.
#LoveWalking
Stretch your legs and see York on foot. Our new Love Walking hub is full of great ways to explore the city and see sights old and new.
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Shambles Market
The Shambles Market remains open for essential shopping, and is the best place to get fresh produce from local traders. The Shambles Food court is also open for scrumptious takeaway treats.
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These events have been hand picked by Visit York.
Go to Visit York’s What’s On page to see a full list of things to do in York.
