London's holiday entertainment features world-renowned performances across the West End and beyond. From The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House to festive concerts at Royal Albert Hall, the city offers spectacular seasonal shows. Enjoy Christmas pantomimes, holiday concerts, and theatrical performances at London's historic venues throughout the festive season.
Sleeping Beauty Pantomime
Location: London
Dates: Sat 6 Dec 2025 - Sun 11 Jan 2026
Cost: $$$
This festive production at The London Palladium celebrates its 10th anniversary with a star-studded cast featuring Catherine Tate and Julian Clary. Audiences will enjoy a modern twist on the classic pantomime, complete with stunning set designs, elaborate costumes, and impressive stage effects.
Highlights:
- See beloved stars like Catherine Tate and Julian Clary in a festive theatrical production.
- Celebrate the 10th anniversary of pantomime's return to the London Palladium.
- Experience the magic of a classic pantomime with a modern twist.
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Cadogan Hall Christmas Events
Location: London
Dates: Events listed from September 2025 onwards.
Cost: $$
Cadogan Hall will host a vibrant calendar of Christmas events, featuring a range of musical performances from classical orchestras to jazz ensembles. With a focus on diverse genres, the venue provides a platform for resident orchestras and various performing arts throughout December.
Venue: Cadogan Hall
Address: 5 Sloane Terrace, London SW1X 9DQ
Phone: 020 7730 4500
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A vibrant calendar of events throughout the year, with a special focus on Christmas programming.
- Home to resident orchestras and a platform for a wide array of musical genres and performing arts.
- Experience a diverse range of musical performances, from classical orchestras and jazz ensembles to rock, pop, and folk artists.
The Nutcracker at Royal Opera House
Location: London
Dates: 22 November 2025 – 5 January 2026
Cost: $$$$
Peter Wright's classic production of The Nutcracker returns to the Royal Opera House, featuring the world-class dancers of The Royal Ballet performing Tchaikovsky's iconic score. This beloved holiday ballet invites audiences of all ages to enjoy a magical journey filled with breathtaking choreography and stunning set designs.
Highlights:
- Peter Wright's beloved production of The Nutcracker, a cherished Christmas tradition.
- The Royal Ballet's world-class dancers performing Tchaikovsky's timeless score.
- A magical journey for all ages, perfect for a festive family outing.
Christmas at St Martin's
Location: London
Dates: December 3 - January 2
Cost: $$
St Martin-in-the-Fields hosts a series of Christmas concerts and services throughout December, featuring acclaimed choirs and musicians. Attendees can enjoy a rich musical experience with traditional carols, readings, and classical performances in the historic church setting.
Venue: St Martin-in-the-Fields
Address: Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 4JJ
Phone: 020 7766 1100
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A diverse program of Christmas concerts and services held throughout December.
- Performances by acclaimed choirs and musicians, offering a rich musical experience.
- Festive atmosphere with carols, readings, and seasonal music.
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Dick Whittington at the Theatre Royal Windsor
Location: Windsor
Dates: November 29, 2024 - January 12, 2025
Cost: $$
The Theatre Royal Windsor presents the traditional pantomime Dick Whittington, featuring a celebrity cast that includes Basil Brush and Kevin Cruise. This lively production promises colorful costumes, humorous performances, and a magical storyline perfect for all ages.
Venue: Theatre Royal Windsor
Address: 32 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PS
Phone: 01753 853 888
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Starring Britain's favorite fox, Basil Brush, alongside Windsor's own comic, Kevin Cruise.
- Featuring the hilarious Hilary O'Neil as Fairy Bowbells and legendary singer Lyn Paul as Queen Rat.
- Experience the traditional pantomime comedy capers and dazzling dancers.
Sinfonia Smith Square Christmas Festival 2025
Location: London
Dates: Sat 6 – Tue 23 Dec 2025
Cost: $$
The Sinfonia Smith Square will host a curated series of Christmas concerts in a historic venue, featuring performances of holiday classics like Handel's Messiah and 'The Snowman Live in Concert'. Audiences can expect a mix of classical and contemporary Christmas music.
Venue: Sinfonia Smith Square
Address: Smith Square, London, ENG SW1P 3HA
Phone: +44 (0) 20 7222 1061
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A curated series of Christmas concerts featuring renowned orchestras, choirs, and soloists.
- Performances of beloved holiday classics like Handel's Messiah and 'The Snowman Live in Concert'.
- Experience a diverse range of classical and contemporary Christmas music performances.
English National Ballet's The Nutcracker
Location: London
Dates: Thu 11 Dec 2025 - Sun 11 Jan 2026
Cost: $$$
The English National Ballet presents a classic production of The Nutcracker at the London Coliseum, featuring Tchaikovsky's score performed live by the English National Ballet Philharmonic. This festive ballet showcases stunning choreography and a captivating journey from Edwardian London to the magical Land of Sweets.
Venue: London Coliseum
Address: St Martin's Ln, London WC2N 4ES
Phone: 020 7581 1245
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience Tchaikovsky's iconic score performed live by the English National Ballet Philharmonic.
- Enjoy a classic festive ballet, a perfect holiday tradition for the whole family.
- See acclaimed choreography by Artistic Director Aaron S. Watkin and Olivier Award-winner Arielle Smith.
Boisdale of Canary Wharf Live Music
Location: London
Dates: Tuesday - Sunday (hours vary by day and floor)
Cost: $$$
Boisdale of Canary Wharf offers daily live music performances in a sophisticated venue known for its extensive whisky collection. Guests can enjoy a unique atmosphere with Art Deco design, city skyline views, and themed music nights throughout the holiday season.
Venue: Boisdale of Canary Wharf
Address: Unit 14 Cabot Square, London E14 4QT
Phone: 020 7715 5818
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience daily live music performances in a sophisticated London venue.
- Indulge in a vast selection of over 1,000 malt whiskies and vintage cognacs.
- Enjoy a unique atmosphere with Art Deco design, city skyline views, and a Cuban cigar library.
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
Location: London
Dates: 12 Nov 2025–10 Jan 2026
Cost: $$
The Old Vic presents London's longest-running adaptation of A Christmas Carol, featuring a talented cast dedicated to bringing Charles Dickens' classic tale to life. This visually stunning production immerses the audience in the story with unique staging and heartfelt performances.
Highlights:
- Enjoy London's longest-running adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol' at the historic Old Vic.
- Experience a heart-warming festive favorite with a cast and crew dedicated to bringing the story to life.
- Experience the magic of Charles Dickens' classic tale brought to life on stage.
The Nutcracker
Location: London
Dates: November 25 - December 24, 2025
Cost: $$$
Experience a stunning performance of Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet, The Nutcracker, at the Royal Albert Hall. This classic tale of Clara and her magical Nutcracker promises to enchant audiences of all ages.
Highlights:
- Witness a spectacular performance of Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet.
- Experience the enchanting story of Clara and her magical Nutcracker.
Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival 2025
Location: London
Dates: Sat 20 Dec 2025—Thu 1 Jan 2026
Cost: $$$
The Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival at Barbican Centre features a series of classical music concerts celebrating the festive season, performed by esteemed ensembles such as King's College Choir and the Philharmonia Orchestra. The program includes a mix of traditional carols and iconic film scores, offering a rich musical experience. Each concert showcases world-class musicians and is designed to engage audiences with sing-along opportunities and stunning visual elements.
Venue: Barbican Centre
Address: Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS
Phone: 020 7870 2500
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A curated series of classical music concerts celebrating the Christmas season.
- Performances by world-class ensembles including King's College Choir and the Philharmonia Orchestra.
- A diverse program ranging from traditional carols to epic film scores.
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Hansel and Gretel at Shakespeare's Globe
Location: London
Dates: November 2024 - January 5, 2025
Cost: $$
Shakespeare's Globe presents a modern re-telling of the classic fairy tale 'Hansel and Gretel,' written by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and directed by Nick Bagnall. This captivating family show, suitable for ages 5 and up, features charming twists and humorous songs that bring the beloved story to life on stage. The iconic venue is transformed into a winter wonderland, enhancing the enchanting experience of the performance.
Venue: Shakespeare's Globe
Address: 21 New Globe Walk, London SE1 9DT
Phone: +44 (0)20 7401 9919
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A captivating family show perfect for all ages, recommended for 5+.
- Directed by Nick Bagnall and written by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage.
- Experience a modern re-telling of the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale.
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Sir John Rutter's Christmas Celebration
Location: Guildford
Dates: Saturday 20 December 2025
Cost: $$-$$$
Join Sir John Rutter for a festive Christmas music celebration at Guildford Cathedral, featuring the renowned Guildford Cathedral Choir and the Septura brass ensemble. This evening of carols and seasonal favorites invites audience participation, creating an immersive experience for all attendees. The concert combines traditional Christmas music with inspiring contemporary pieces in a stunning venue renowned for its architectural beauty.
Venue: Guildford Cathedral
Address: Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7UP
Phone: 01483 547860
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- An evening of carols and Christmas music led by the renowned Sir John Rutter.
- A special performance featuring the Guildford Cathedral Choir and Septura brass ensemble.
- Audience participation encouraged for a truly immersive festive experience.
South Nutfield Choral Society Winter Concerts
Location: South Nutfield
Dates: December 5th and 13th, 2025
Cost: $$
The South Nutfield Choral Society presents a series of winter concerts at Christ Church, showcasing the rich harmonies of dedicated choir members performing seasonal music. This festive concert not only provides entertainment but also supports St Catherine's Hospice through the proceeds of the event. Attendees can look forward to an evening filled with uplifting choral music in a warm and welcoming environment.
Venue: Christ Church
Address: Kings Cross Ln, South Nutfield RH1 5NG
Phone: 07841 827496
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience the rich harmonies of a dedicated choral society performing seasonal music.
- Support a local hospice through your attendance at this festive concert.
A Christmas Carol Live Performance
Location: London
Dates: Dates throughout December
Experience a live performance of Charles Dickens's classic 'A Christmas Carol' at the Charles Dickens Museum, where the story comes to life within the historical context of the author's former home. This captivating theatrical presentation immerses the audience in the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge with engaging performances and period-appropriate staging. The museum setting enhances the authenticity of the experience, making it a unique holiday event.
Venue: Charles Dickens Museum
Address: 48 Doughty Street, London WC1N 2LX
Phone: +44(0)20 7405 2127
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Witness a captivating live performance of 'A Christmas Carol' brought to life within the historic walls of the Charles Dickens Museum.
- Experience a live theatrical performance of Charles Dickens's classic tale, 'A Christmas Carol'.
- Step back in time at the Charles Dickens Museum, the author's former home, which serves as the atmospheric backdrop for this performance.
Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime
Location: London
Dates: November 15, 2025 - January 4, 2026
Cost: $$
The Lyric Hammersmith Theatre presents the beloved pantomime 'Jack and the Beanstalk,' featuring a vibrant production filled with musical numbers, comedic routines, and magical elements. Join Jack on his adventurous mission into the clouds, as he navigates the challenges of the Fleshcreep Academy. The performance is designed to entertain audiences of all ages, ensuring a festive experience that combines humor and spectacular stagecraft.
Venue: Lyric Hammersmith Theatre
Address: Lyric Square, London W6 0QL
Phone: 020 8741 6850
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Join Jack on a gigantic mission into the clouds to defeat a nemesis.
- Follow Jack and Jill's adventures at the strict Fleshcreep Academy.
- Discover where Fairy Godfather is hiding in this magical tale.
Raymond Briggs' Father Christmas
Location: London
Dates: November 19 - December 27, 2025
Cost: $$
Join Santa Claus on his busiest day of the year in this enchanting theatrical adaptation of Raymond Briggs' classic book. Follow him as he dreams of a sunny escape, feeds his reindeer, and embarks on his Christmas Eve deliveries. This heartwarming production is a must-see holiday tradition.
Venue: Lyric Hammersmith Theatre
Address: Lyric Square, London W6 0QL
Phone: 020 8741 6850
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A beloved Lyric family favorite co-produced with Olivier Award-nominated Pins and Needles Productions.
- A magical theatrical journey based on the classic 'Father Christmas' book.
- Experience the heartwarming story of Santa Claus preparing for his Christmas Eve deliveries.
The Snowman Film with Live Orchestra
Location: Guildford
Dates: Saturday 13 December 2025
Cost: $$
Experience the enchanting animated classic 'The Snowman' at Guildford Cathedral, accompanied by a live orchestra featuring some of the UK's finest musicians. This special screening includes a festive introduction, making it an engaging experience for audiences of all ages. The performance brings the beloved story to life with a captivating orchestral score, enhancing the magic of the film and creating an unforgettable evening.
Venue: Guildford Cathedral
Address: Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7UP
Phone: 01483 547860
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A magical screening of 'The Snowman' film accompanied by a live orchestra, featuring some of the UK's finest professional musicians.
- A festive introduction to the orchestra, making the experience engaging for all ages.
- Experience the beloved animated classic 'The Snowman' brought to life with a captivating live orchestral performance.
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in London.