Update in progress
Find the best Christmas and Winter family events and activities to help you plan a magical Christmas in Bristol, Bath and the surrounding area! Click the links below to jump to different types of events and activities. Follow us on Instagram if you would like ideas for more things to do in Bristol and Bath with kids throughout the year @bristolfamilyblog
Click to jump to:
✨ Light Trails & Illuminations
🎅 Santa’s Grottos
🎅 Christmas Days Out & Events
🎄 Free Christmas Activities
❄️ Other Events
⛸️ Ice Skating
🛍️ Christmas Markets & Fairs
🎄 Christmas Crafts & Creative
🎭 Theatre
🎉 Christmas Parties
❄️ Winter Walks & Sledging
🎄 Christmas Trees
👶 Pre-School Festive Events
🎅 Christmas Experiences Further Away
Light Trails & Illuminations
Brighten up your winter nights with an illuminated trail or light show. This makes for a lovely winter family tradition! See the Map for Illumination Locations
The Festival of Light at Longleat
This year’s theme is Legendary Worlds, featuring myth, magic and adventure in outstanding illuminated scenes. Runs 7 November – 17 January. See our reel from our visit! Book tickets
Wild Lights at Bristol Zoo Project
Brand new immersive winter lights experience at the zoo! Runs 27 November – 23 December. ⭐ Relaxed sessions Book tickets Plus, pay what you can after 2pm on 2-15 November for day-time zoo entry – needs to be pre-booked!
Festive Illumination Light Trail at Old Down Country Park
Festive Illumination Trail. Runs 28 November – 28 December ⭐Quiet session Book tickets
Christmas at Westonbirt
Illuminated trail at Westonbirt from the producers of Christmas at Kew. Runs 27 November – 31 December. See our post from our visit in 2024! ⭐Relaxed sessions available Book tickets
Sky Dragon: A Dragon Drone Light Show
An outdoor dragon themed drone light show at Seat Unique Stadium (Glos Cricket Stadium BS7). Hundreds of synchronised drones will create magical creatures and glowing formations choreographed to music. Runs 19 & 20 December Book tickets
Christmas at Stourhead
Christmas at Stourhead, Wiltshire. Runs 27 November – 3 January. ⭐Quiet sessions available Book tickets
Luminate at Ashton Court
For its second year, Luminate is back at Ashton Court! Runs 27 November – 28 December ⭐Sensory night Book tickets
Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle
Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle with Alice’s Amazing Adventures in Wonderland theme. Runs 20 November – 30 December. Book tickets
The Spirit of Christmas at Bute Park
The Spirit of Christmas at Bute Park, Cardiff. Runs 19 November – 31 December ⭐Neuro-inclusive evenings Book tickets Offer: 15% off with code BUTE15 – Ends 15 Nov
Enchanted Garden By Night at Painswick Rococo Garden
Enchanted Garden By Night at Painswick Rococo Garden near Stroud. Expect enchanting illuminations, woodland animals and twinkling surprises. Runs 27 November – 2 January. ⭐Sensory sensitive evenings Book tickets
Christmas Illuminations at Bishops Palace, Wells
Christmas Garden Illuminations and Light Trail at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells. Runs 1 December – 3 January Book tickets
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Santa’s Grottos
Santa’s Grotto and Father Christmas experiences where meeting the big man is the main event:
Christmas in the Caves Visit Santa and his polar bear at Redcliffe Caves 4 – 24 Dec More info & booking
Clearwell Caves The Festive Forest trail 28 Nov – 31 Dec More info & booking
Avon Valley Railway Santa Specials Festive Train Ride 22 Nov – 24 Dec More info & booking ⭐access needs/SEN call to book
Father Christmas Grotto at The Holburne Museum 27 Nov – 23 Dec More info & booking
Almondsbury Garden Centre Christmas Grotto Experience 28 Nov – 24 Dec More info & booking ⭐SEN Sessions
Cadbury Garden Centre Santas Grotto 1 Nov – 24 Dec More info & booking
No.1 Royal Crescent Meet Father Christmas. First three weekends of Dec More info & booking
Cabot Circus Santa’s Grotto 1 Nov – 24 Dec More info & booking
Santa & Snowball Interactive Santa show all ages. 2 Nov On The Hill; 28 Nov Front Room Theatre, WSM; 29 Nov Rondo Theatre, Bath; 5 Dec Clevedon Theatre & 12/13 Dec Wardrobe Theatre More info & booking
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery Santa’s Grotto 5-20 Dec More info & booking
The Ashton Breakfast With Santa 12, 19 & 20 Dec More info & booking
Whitehall Garden Centre, Lacock Story Time with Santa 28 Nov – 24 Dec More info & booking
De Vere Tortworth Court Santa Sunday Lunch 6, 13 & 20 Dec More info & booking & Santa’s Grotto at the Christmas Fireworks 21 & 22 Dec Book fireworks
Emersons Green Village Hall Christmas Grotto 28 Nov More info & booking
Born in Bristol Santa’s Grotto 6, 13 & 20 Dec More info & booking
Willsbridge Mill Visit with Santa 19 & 20 Dec More info & booking
The Hideaway @ Discovery Santa’s Breakfast 6 Dec More info & booking
The Secret Garden Outdoor Playgroup Story with Santa Multiple dates 2-22 Dec. Ages toddling-6 More info & booking
Poplars Farm Santa is Coming to Poplars 17 Dec More info & booking
IKEA Breakfast with Santa 28 Nov – 20 Dec More info & booking
On The Hill (formerly Zion) Christmas Market Santa’s Grotto 5 & 6 December More info & booking
The Play Shed Santa’s Grotto 19 Dec & Breakfast with Santa/Grinch 20 Dec More info & booking
M.O.M Play Space Stories with Santa 1 Dec More info & booking
Imagination Fascination Meet Santa 12 & 19 Dec. Grinch sessions also available More info & booking
The Little Pottery Barn, Radstock Meet Santa, crafts, story, music & dancing. 6 Dec More info & booking
Ashton Court Miniature Railway Santa Special 6 Dec SOLD OUT. Tickets go on sale in July, keep an eye on their socials for next year if you’re keen!
Back to the start ⬆️
Christmas Days Out & Events
The Festival of Light at Longleat
The spectacular Festival of Light runs until 17 January (see our reel from this year!). This years theme is Legendary Worlds, featuring dragons, mythical creatures and magical scenes with over 1000 lanterns. During the day, enjoy festive workshops, winter safaris and the usual Longleat attractions. In the evening see the spectacular illuminated lanterns. The popular Santa Train is also running and sells out quickly. More info & booking
Christmas Experience at Avon Valley
Avon Valley’s Christmas Experience returns from 5 – 24 December, and it is packed with festive activities including a Santa’s grotto visit, toy factory, two festive shows, Mrs Claus’ Gingerbread Parlour, The Grinch, Santa’s Post Room, The Elf Express and more! More info & booking
Christmas on the Farm at Cattle Country
Cattle Country’s Christmas Experience runs 5 – 23 December and combines festive fun with the usual farm park fun. Highlights include meeting Father Christmas, biscuit decorating and a show in the Gingerbread Factory and writing a letter to Santa in the Elf Post Room. Children can make reindeer food and toast marshmallows. Also explore the modern indoor soft play, sand play and plenty of outdoor play. More info & booking
Twilight Tobogganing at Mendip Activity Centre
Twilight Tobogganing at Mendip Activity Centre – half an hour tobogganing under sparkly fairy lights, followed by half an hour around the campfire to toast s’mores, drink hot chocolate and have sparklers! Age 4+ Runs 6 November – 3 January More info & booking
Christmas at the Zoo at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
- Magical Storybook Trail in December
- Meet Santa at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm in Santa’s Library 28 November – 22 December. Pre-booking is required. More info & booking
- Christmas Market 21 & 22 November More info
Christmas at Cotswold Farm Park
A festive family day out with lots of activities including meeting Father Christmas, Present Room, Gingerbread Decorating, Teddy Bear Workshop, Marshmallow Toasting, Indoor and Outdoor Play! Running 27 November – 23 December More info & booking
Kids Go Free in November & Father Christmas at Perrygrove Railway
3 – 30 November | Kids Go Free November. Just book adult tickets online in advance. Book tickets
5 – 24 December | Meet Father Christmas, Ride on the Christmas Express, Down the Chimney Show, and Indoor and Outdoor Play. More info & booking
Christmas at Stourhead
National Trust Estate for a Winter Walk. Events include:
- Drawn to Trees: tree trail 8 November – 31 December
- Storytime with Father Christmas 12 – 23 December
- A Nutcracker Christmas at Stourhead: The Mouse King’s mischievous mice trail 28 November – 3 January
- A Nutcracker Christmas at Stourhead in the house 28 November – 23 December
- Christmas at Stourhead Illuminated Trail 27 November – 3 January
Sailing the Stars at Bristol Dockyards
Sailing the Stars Light Installation 25 November – 10 January. Installation by Squidsoup across the Dockyards, and explore the SS Great Britain and museums.
Christmas Ho Ho Ho’pen Cockpit Day at the Helicopter Museum
13 December | Open cockpits, face painting, arts and crafts More info
Christmas on the Farm at Palette and Pasture
Christmas on the Farm at Palette and Pasture ice cream parlour. Meet Santa in his grotto, Farm Animals, Reindeer Food Making, Build a Santa Bell, Photo Opportunities & Activity Sheet 6 – 21 December More info & booking
Winter Wonderland at Wookey Hole
Winter Wonderland 22 November – 24 December. Underground light experience in the caves, santa’s grotto, Christmas circus show and more! More info & booking
Magical Christmas Adventure at Puxton Park
Magical Christmas Adventure at Puxton Park includes a Santa’s grotto, Snowy Christmas Tree Village with Magical Wish Granting Tree, Gingerbread Decorating with Mrs Claus, Bauble Making in the Elves Workshop and Festive Animal Shows. Runs 6, 7, 13, 14, and 21–24 December. More info & booking
Christmas at Old Down Country Park
Breakfast with Santa and Visit Santa experiences 20-24 December, Festive Illumination Trail 6-28 December & Christmas Market 26 & 27 November More info & booking
Elfcapades at Over Farm Countryside Adventure
Elfcapades at Countryside Adventure. The elves have set up a mystery trail where you have to explore the farm, meet the animals, and discover the letters that lead to an exciting present at the elves’ workshop. Runs every weekend Saturday 6 – Sunday 21 December and Monday 22 & 23 December More info & booking
Visit Santa at Fairfield Animal Centre
Visit Santa as part of an Animal Park visit 29 & 30 November, 6, 7, 13-23 December More info & booking
Christmas at Cheddar Gorge
Christmas at Cheddar. Grotto experience and caves to explore on select dates 15 November – 23 December. More info & booking
Lacock National Trust
Lacock National Trust Toddler Time and Storytime with Mother Christmas various dates pre-booking required More info & booking
Festive Weekends at American Museum & Gardens
- Festive Weekends 6 & 7, 13 & 14 & 20 & 21 December with creative activities, Christmas storytelling, choirs and christmas decorations.
- Craft Fair for Christmas Gifts 15 & 16 November
- Beyond Infinity: American Space Exploration Exhibition running until 4 January – see our post from our visit. Find out more
Tyntesfield National Trust
Once Upon a Reindeer Trail 20 December – 4 January. Christmas bauble decorating workshop 13 December (age 11+). Family Reindeer Making 14-21 December (SOLD OUT). More info & booking
Christmas Through The Ages at Dyrham Park National Trust
Christmas at Dyrham Park 21 November – 4 January. The house will be dressed in the style of different eras, a children’s trail, choirs in the church on select dates More info
12 Days of Christmas at Prior Park National Trust
See the 12 days of Christmas come to life around the gardens at Prior Park 29 November – 4 January More info
Christmas Holidays at We The Curious
A day of curiosity with a festive twist. Activities running: Fairytale SOS – Science-meets-panto show, winter kitchen experiments, 3D prints, circuits and more. 20 November – 5 January More info & booking
Arnos Vale Cemetery
- Christmas Market 7 December
- Stomping story – A Stick man 22 December
- Winter crafts workshop 22 December
- Whittle a critter – winter edition 23 December
- Fire lighting workshop 23 December
The Last Sprouts at Wake The Tiger
Wake The Tiger has had a sprout takeover this winter, featuring a festive story and nostaglic moments. 15 November – 5 January More info & booking
Wish Upon a Starfish at Bristol Aquarium
Christmas event 20 December – 4 January Find out more
Mince Pie Specials at Avon Valley Railway
Mince Pie Specials at Avon Valley Railway 28 Dec & 1 Jan More info & booking
Hoot’s Saturnalia Secrets at The Roman Baths
Saturnalia spotting trail for young explorers – discover how the Romans celebrated winter with traditions that echo today’s holidays. Join Hoot the Owl and hunt for festive objects around the museum. 27 November – 31 December More info & booking Winter Warmer Sessions with choirs 17, 18, 19 & 21 December,
Christmas Holidays at Haynes Motor Museum
Parcel elves festive trail through the museum and scalextric. 20 December – 4 January More info & booking
Back to the start ⬆️
Free Christmas Activities
The Christmasaurus Christmas Trail & Santa Storytelling at Cribbs Causeway
Enjoy this FREE trail and collect stamps along the way from 28 November. Meet Santa and the Christmasaurus every day up to the 24 December and take your pick from two activities:
- Storytime Sessions with Santa & The Christmasaurus
- The Christmasaurus Visits – Showtime
Drop-in, no booking required! More info
Original Santa Float
Amazing Santa Float raising money for charity. All routes are weather dependent so check socials for updates and route maps. 2025 Routes:
- Sat 29 November Allington Farm Shop
- Sun 30 November Keynsham & Brislington
- Weds 3 Dec Marshfield & Colerne
- Fri 5 Dec Patchway & Charlton Hayes
- Sat 6 Dec Whitchurch
- Sun 7 Dec Chipping Sodbury Christmas Sunday followed by Ladden Gardens
- Thurs 11 Dec Burton Farm Shop followed by Acton Turville & Badminton
- Fri 12 Dec Mangotsfield, Staple Hill & Downend
- Sat 13 Dec Lyde Green & Emersons Green
- Sun 14 Dec Yate
- Weds 17 Dec Wick & Pucklechurch
- Fri 19 Dec Oldland & Longwell Green
- Sat 20 Dec Hanham & Kingswood
- Sun 21 Dec Sodbury Tractor Run
- Weds 24 Dec Durdham Downs
Santa’s Magical Christmas Float 2025
Another fabulous Santa float raising money for charity. Check socials for maps and weather updates. They are visiting the following routes (more to be added!):
- Thurs 4 Dec Corsham & Rudloe
- Fri 5 Dec Batheaston
- Sat 6 Dec Knowle
- Sun 7 Dec Longwell Green & Oldland Common
- Mon 8 Dec Chippenham
- Weds 10 Dec Hartcliffe
- Thurs 11 Dec Keynsham
- Fri 12 Dec Melksham
- Sat 13 Dec Brislington
- Sun 14 Dec Stockwood
- Tues 16 Dec Withywood & Headley Park
- Weds 17 Dec Whitchurch
- Sat 20 Dec Bath Coombe Down-Twerton
Garden Centre Christmas Displays
Cadbury Garden Centre and Whitehall Garden Centre in Lacock have amazing displays which are great free entertainment! Lacock has nativity animals 8 November – 24 December and a Winter Walk 15 November – 24 December. Otter Garden Centres have taken over the old Whitchurch Whitehall site, and also have Christmas displays.
Christmas Tree Trail in Clifton Village
Explore Clifton Village to find decorated Christmas Trees and Elves. 1-23 December Download the map
Christmas Light Switch Ons:
- Clifton Village 12 November More info
- Thornbury 15 November More info
- SS Great Britain 27 November More info
- Check your local high street
Visit Decorated Houses
Walk around your neighbourhood or get in your car with PJs and hot chocolate to see the best decorated houses. A notable display is Winterbourne Wonderland with over 100,000 lights and opens 22 Nov. This Facebook group has lots of displays listed.
Santas on a Bike 2025
6 December Charity ride to the children’s hospice at Charlton Farm via Bristol city centre. Free but raising money for charity More info
Seasonal Kid’s Cinema at Windmill Hill City Farm
Every weekday, at 3.45 PM, the City Farm Cafe will be showing a free family-friendly film! Previous titles have included: The Gruffalo, Tiddler, Room on the Broom and The Highway Rat.
RWA Scribble & Sketch Workshops at Various Locations
On most Saturdays there is a free Scribble & Sketch Workshop at a different location in Bristol. Find out more
Letters to Santa & Ornament Making at BTP Gloucester Road
Letters to Santa 6 & 7 December More info & Ornament Making 14 December More info
Other Free Days Out
See our post with lots of free and cheap days out in Bristol for more ideas! See also Christmas Market and Christmas Walks sections.
Back to the start ⬆️
Other Events
Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery 31 October – 26 April More info & booking
The Gruffalo & Gruffalo’s Child Meet & Greet at Whitehall Garden Centre Lacock 22 & 23 November More info & booking
Letters to Santa & Christmas Wish Tree at Redcatch Community Garden 23 November More info & booking
Avon Winterland The Avon Centre 23 November More info & booking
Church Road Lantern Parade 6 December and Willow lantern making workshops 23 & 30 November More info & lantern making workshop booking
Festive Gert Posh Afternoon Tea Farrington’s Farm from 25 November More info & booking
Family Festive Fun at The Red Lodge Museum 30 November More info & booking
Step into Christmas at Redcatch Community Garden 1-3 December More info & booking
Family Festive Fun at Blaise Museum 6 & 7 December More info & booking
Festive Family Fun Weekend Whitehall Garden Centre Lacock 6 & 7 December More info & booking
Meet the Grinch & Cindy Lou Imagination Fascination. 7, 14 & 21 December More info & booking
Toadstool Events, by Tiggy Christmas Elf Workshop in the Mendips. 12, 13 & 14 December More info & booking
Festive Family Afternoon Tea De Vere Tortwoth Court 13 December More info & booking
Festive Family Fun Day Elm Tree Farm 13 December More info & booking
Family Festive Fun at The Georgian House Museum 13 & 14 December More info & booking
Carols in the Barn at Winterbourne Medieval Barn 13 & 14 December More info & booking
Stargazing at Failand Observatory “Experience an exciting tour of the night sky guided by friendly astronomers from the Bristol Astronomical Society. Observe the Moon, planets and fascinating deep space objects through their telescopes at their wonderful observatory.” For ages 8+. Dates 13, 15 & 21 November 7.30-9.30pm Pre-booking required. More info & booking
Breakfast with the Grinch at Chaos Inflatable Park 13, 20 & 22 December More info & booking
Santa and the Reading Elf at Redcatch Community Garden 14 December More info & booking
Community Carol Service at Aerospace Museum 14 December More info & booking
Naughty Elves Breakfast at The Ivy Bath & Bristol 14, 21 & 23 December More info & booking
Toddlers’ Carols at Bristol Cathedral. Informal carol service for babies, toddlers and pre-school children. 17 December 9.30-10, 11-11.30 & 2-2.30. Drop-in More info
Family Carols at Bristol Cathedral. Children (and adults!) are warmly invited to come dressed as shepherds, angels, wise men, sheep, or any other character from the nativity scene. The service will feature a light-hearted retelling of the nativity, complete with familiar carols for all to sing along to. Plus, Charlie the donkey appearance! 21 December 3.30-4.30 More info
Christmas Breakfast with the cheeky Hanney and Anny Elf at Willsbridge Mill 21 December More info & booking
New Cinema Releases: Wicked: For Good (PG) 21 November, Zootropolis 2 28 November, The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants 20 Dec. New Magic Light film: The Scarecrows’ Wedding to be shown on BBC on Christmas Day.
Back to the start ⬆️
Ice Skating
Bath On Ice Outdoor ice rink 14 November – 4 January More info & booking Also has Glow Golf and Tree Maze!
Riverside Inn, Saltford Ice skating rink. Dates available from now until February More info & booking
Planet Ice Permanent indoor ice skating rink at Cribbs Causeway More info & booking
Perrygrove Railway Skating at Perrygrove 13 – 24 December More info & booking
Clarks Village The Ice Rink 11 November – 4 January More info & booking The World’s Biggest Elf Skate is happening on 13 November Find out more
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Christmas Markets & Fairs
Bristol Christmas Market Broadmead 7 November – 23 December More info
Bath Christmas Market 27 November – 14 December More info
Bristol Christmas Village Castle Park. 28 November – 27 December (closed Christmas day). Expect a roller disco, Christmas escape room, curling, VR sleigh ride, games and more! More info
Windmill Hill Market at Windmill Hill City Farm. Every Saturday until 20 December
St Nicks Christmas Market Every day from 14 November More info
Craft Fair for Christmas Gifts at American Museum & Gardens 15 & 16 November More info
Tobacco Factory Christmas Markets 16, 23 & 30 November and 7, 14 & 21 December More info
Downend Christmas Market 22 November More info
Hanham Bristol Makers Market at Hanham Community Centre 22 November More info
Riverside Garden Centre Winter Market at Riverside Garden Centre 22 & 23 November More info
Made in Bristol Gift Fairs Bristol Beacon Saturday 22 & Saturday 29 November & Sunday 14 December More info Art clubs from Colourful Minds & The Crafty Social Club Book here
Maker’s Market at Mon Pote 23 & 30 November and 7 & 14 December More info
Christmas Market at Old Down Country Park 26 & 27 November More info
Christmas at Wapping Wharf 27 November More info (Not technically a market, but similar vibe with food & drink, music, shopping and Father Christmas)
Gift Fair Holburne Museum 28 November More info
Christmas Fair and Market at Redcatch Community Garden 29 & 30 November More info
Windmill Winter Craft Fair at Kingswood Heritage Museum 30 November More info
Winter Fayre at Bath City Farm 6 December More info
Winter Fair at St Werburghs City Farm 6 December More info
Christmas Fair at Underfall Yard 6 & 7 December More info
Zion Christmas Market at Zion Bristol 6 & 7 December More info
Christmas Market at Arnos Vale Cemetery 7 December More info
A Very Alice Christmas Market at Alice Park 13 December More info
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Christmas Crafts & Creative
Children’s Scrapstore Festive crafts on multiple dates More info & booking
Tree-riffic decorating and Gingerbread Creations at IKEA Bristol multiple dates More info & booking
Boujon Bakery Biscuit & Cupcake Decorating Biscuits: 14 November & 5 December. Cupcakes: 6 & 13 December. Any age kids with accompanying adult. More info & booking
Children’s Christmas Card Making Emersons Green Village Hall 15 November More info & booking
Christmas Clay & Ceramics Decoration Workshops (Adult and Child) at BTP 20 November & 2 December and Windmill Hill City Farm 29 November & 6 December More info & booking
Make Your Own Christmas Cards (Adult & Child 6+) at Flourish 22 November Book tickets Windmill Hill City Farm 30 November Book tickets
Whitehall Garden Centre Lacock Children’s Festive Slime Making 22 November, 6 & 7 December More info & booking
Craft with Clare Toddler Craft Club – Stamp Your Own Wrapping Paper at Flourish 27 November More info & booking
Craft with Clare Mum & Baby Craft Club – Origami Baubles at Flourish 27 November More info & booking
Christmas Pottery Painting at Be Weird Be Wild Be Wonderful 28 November & 12 December More info & booking
Gootopia Christmas Extravaganza Slime Workshops (now in BS3!) 29 Nov – 4 Jan. Use code BRISTOLFAM15 of 15% off. More info & booking
Children’s Bauble Painting day sessions (morning & afternoon) at Flourish 30 November More info & booking
Kids Christmas Wreath Making Workshop at Flourish 2 December More info & booking
Craft with Clare Toddler Craft Club – Christmas Tree Handprint Decorations at Flourish 4 December More info & booking
Craft with Clare Mum & Baby Craft Club – Christmas Candle Painting at Flourish 4 December More info & booking
Christmas Crafts Westonbirt Arboretum 6 & 7 December More info & booking
Made in Bristol Art Club by Colourful Minds & The Crafty Social Club Bristol Beacon 7 December Book here
Print Your Own Christmas Garland (Adult & Child 6+) at Flourish 13 December More info & booking
Parent-Child Tufting Workshop at BTP Cheswick 14 December More info & booking
Holburne Museum Christmas Creatures Family Drop-in Workshop 14 & 23 December More info
Christmas Creations at Be Weird Be Wild Be Wonderful 17 December More info & booking
Baking Class Emersons Green Village Hall. Ages 6+ 19 December & 9 January More info & booking
Georgian Christmas Crafts The Roman Baths 20, 22 & 23 December More info
Christmas Cuddly Reindeer Workshop BTP Cheswick Village 20 December. Ages 6-10 More info & booking
Story and Crafts with the Elves Emersons Green Village Hall 22 December More info & booking
Cookie Decorating BTP Cheswick Village 23 December 2-4pm More info & booking
Yuup have lots of options!
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Theatre
Mamma Mia! at Bristol Hippodrome
11 – 22 Nov | Ages 5+ Book tickets
Wonderland at Tobacco Factory
12 Nov | Ages 5+ Book tickets
The Smeds and The Smoos at Redgrave Theatre
16-17 Nov | Ages 3+ Book tickets
Jeff Kinney – Diary of a Wimpy Kid The Partypooper Show at Bath Forum
17 Nov | Ages 7+ Book tickets
Snow Mice! at The Egg
20 Nov – 11 Jan | Ages 3-9 Book tickets
Ministry of Science Live at Bath Forum
22 Nov | Ages 6+ Book tickets
Circus Extravaganza at Multiple Locations
22 Nov in Pucklechurch, 23 Nov in Keynsham, 21 Dec in Saltford, 22 Dec in Clevedon, 28 Dec in Hanham, 30 Dec in Lyde Green | All ages Book tickets
Mother Goose at Emersons Green Village Hall
22 Nov | All ages Book tickets
MC Grammar Live: Books, Beats and Barz at Komedia
23 Nov | All ages Book tickets
A Christmas Carol at Redgrave Theatre
24-29 Nov | Ages 8+ Book tickets
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong at Theatre Royal Bath
25-30 Nov | Ages 8+ Book tickets
Rapunzel: A Hairy Tale at Tobacco Factory
27 Nov – 17 Jan | Ages 7+ Book tickets
Dick Whittington at Planet Ice
27 Nov | Family Book tickets
Aurora at The Egg
28 Nov – 4 Jan | Ages 6 mo – 3 yrs Book tickets
Once Upon A Winter at Redgrave Theatre
29 Nov | Ages 5+ Book tickets
Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert at Bath Forum
29 Nov | Ages 3+ Book tickets
Wallace & Gromit : The Wrong Trousers with Live Brass Band at Spiegeltent
30 Nov | All ages Book tickets
The Polar Express at Bath Forum
30 Nov – 7 Dec | All ages Book tickets Interactive movie event
The Snowy Day at Yate Library
2-6 Dec | Ages 1-4 Book tickets
Treasure Island at Bristol Old Vic
4 Dec – 10 Jan | Ages 7+ Book tickets
Scruff’s Christmas Adventure at Tobacco Factory
4 Dec – 4 Jan | Ages 3-6 Book tickets
Antarctica at Bristol Old Vic
5 Dec – 10 Jan | Ages 3-7 Book tickets
Sleeping Beauty at Redgrave Theatre
5 Dec – 4 Jan | All ages/3+ Book tickets
Jack and the Beanstalk at Bristol Hippodrome
6 Dec – 4 Jan | All ages Book tickets
Draenoggin at Windmill Hill City Farm
6 Dec | All ages Book tickets
Little Folk Music at Trinity Centre & Arnos Cemetery
6 Dec at Trinity Centre & 21 December at Arnos Cemetery | All ages Book Trinity & Book Arnos
Little Star Early Years Panto at Bean Tree Cafe
6 Dec at Bean Tree Cafe | All ages Book Tickets
Pantomime Time! Little Red Riding Hood! at Lyde Green Community Centre
6 Dec at Lyde Green Community Centre | Ages 3-12 but all welcome Book Tickets
Rumdoo Family Cabaret at Spiegeltent
6, 13 & 20 Dec | Ages 3+ Book tickets
Cinderella at The Playhouse WSM
6-31 Dec | All ages Book tickets
The Further Adventures of PETER PAN: The Return of Captain Hook at Theatre Royal Bath
11 Dec – 11 Jan | Family Book tickets
Santa & Sven at The Wardrobe Theatre
13-14 Dec | Ages 2+ Book tickets
The Snowman in Concert: Music, Story & Performance at Spiegeltent
13, 14 & 20 Dec | All ages Book tickets
Where Did The Snow Go at Front Room, WSM
13 – 30 Dec | Ages 2-8 but all welcome Book tickets
Home Alone: Orchestra & Choir at Bristol Beacon
16 Dec | Age rating PG Book tickets
Kid Carpet & The Noisy Animals: Jack & The Beanstalk (Sort Of) at The Wardrobe Theatre
18 Dec – 4 Jan | Ages 3-10 Book tickets
Dick Whittington at Emersons Green Village Hall
20 Dec | Family Book tickets
The Gruffalo and The Snowman with Mozart Symphony Orchestra at Bristol Beacon
22 Dec | Ages 4+ Book tickets
The Night Sky Show at Bristol Beacon
18 Jan | Ages 8+ Book tickets
Horrible Histories The Concert at Bristol Beacon
30-31 Jan | Ages 6+ Book tickets
Chinese New Year Extravaganza at Redgrave Theatre
31 Jan | All ages Book tickets
Back to the start ⬆️
Christmas Parties
K-Pop Demon Hunters Party Chaos Inflatable Park 14 November Book tickets
Frozen Princess Show with Elsa & Anna! Zion Bristol 29 November Book tickets
Christmas Disco Emersons Green Village Hall 6 December Book tickets
K-Pop Demon Hunters Dance Party Kingswood 6 December Book tickets
SEND Christmas Party Be Weird Be Wild Be Wonderful 7 December Book tickets
Frozen Ball Camerton Village Hall 13 December Book tickets
Polar Express PJ Party Chaos Inflatable Park 13, 20 & 23 December Book tickets
Festive Family Gig Bristol Beacon 20 December. Ages 2+ Book tickets
Christmas Festival of Fun Almondsbury Creative 20 December Book tickets
Christmas Party Chaos Inflatable Park 22 December Book tickets
Christmas Chaos Inflatable Fun Lyde Green Community Centre 22 December Book tickets
Christmas Family Party from Party Peeps Portishead Youth & Community Centre 22 December Book tickets & The Centre Longwell Green 23 December Book tickets
Kids Daytime NYE Party Almondsbury Creative 31 December Book tickets
Party Peeps NYE Party Emersons Green Village Hall 31 December Book tickets
K-Pop Demon Hunters: The Next Chapter Almondsbury Creative 17 January Book tickets
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Winter Walks & Sledging
Beautiful Winter Walks
- Ashton Court
- Blaise Castle Estate
- Tyntesfield National Trust
- Dyrham Park National Trust
- Leigh Woods
- Snuff Mills/Vassals Park
- Stoke Park Estate
- Arnos Vale Cemetery
- Prior Park National Trust
- Stourhead National Trust
Sledging Spots 🛷
If we are lucky enough to have a snow day these are some great spots for sledging in Bristol:
- Ashton Court
- Brandon Hill
- Arnos Vale Park
- Victoria Park
- St Andrews Park
- Stoke Park
- Eastville Park
- Perretts Park
Back to the start ⬆️
Christmas Trees
Frenchay Christmas Tree Farm Old Gloucester Rd, Frenchay, Bristol BS16 1QW. Open daily from 21 Nov. No booking required. More info
Ali & Joe’s Christmas Trees online shop and delivery or pop up locations: Victoria Park, Bedminster & The Tobacco Factory, Southville 29 & 30 November and 6 & 7 December. Beechen Cliff Methodist Church, Bear Flat 6 December. More info
Almondsbury Garden Centre Trees available now for delivery More info
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm Christmas trees for sale throughout December: Norway Spruce, Nordmann Fir & Wonky Christmas Trees More info
Farrington’s Farm – Swinging forest of Christmas trees open from 29 November More info
Over Farm – Wide range of choice of Christmas trees and wreaths from 28 November More info
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Pre-school Festive Events
The Secret Garden Story with Santa. Various dates in December More info & booking
Little Hatters Santa Special and Christmas Eve Special More info & booking
Bespoke Events Festive Stay and Play BS14 Social Club 30 November More info & booking
Little Tots Christmas Stay & Play Longwell Green 1 December, Lyde Green 4 December & Emersons Green 5 December More info & booking
Dear Santa at Be Weird Be Wild Be Wonderful for ages 2-8. 7 December More info & booking
Baby’s 1st Christmas Make & Play Session with Beanstork at Skyboat Cafe 10 & 11 December More info & booking
Meet the Naughty Elf at Wonderland Chew Valley 13 December More info & booking
Let’s Explore Christmas at Be Weird Be Wild Be Wonderful for under 2s. 14 December More info & booking
Soft Play Heaven Christmas Party Little Stoke Community Hall 19 December (under 5s) More info & booking
Little & Curious Touring Playgroup Christmas Sessions Various dates More info & booking
Little City Christmas Specials More info & booking
Supersense Christmas Specials More info & booking
Christmas Experiences Further Away
Notable Christmas experiences further afield, that might be worth travelling to!
Lapland UK Ascot – Sold out for 2025, but additional tickets sometimes become available closer to the date with cancellations, so it may be worth regularly checking. Tickets are usually on sale mid-March. This is an amazing immersive experience. Read our review from 2024! Book tickets ⭐SEN Session
The Polar Express Train experience with actors inspired by the film. The closest ones are South Devon Railway, Buckfastleigh 28 November – 23 December, Seaton Tramway 28 November – 24 December, Vintage Trains Birmingham Moor Street 22 November – 23 December. There are others further afield in the UK.
Center Parcs Longleat Christmas Breaks with Santa and other activities More info & booking
Bluestone Christmas Breaks with Santa’s Lodge, Rudolph, Elves and other activities More info & booking
Warwick Castle Christmas at the Castle 22 November – 4 January More info & booking
Legoland at Christmas event with Father Christmas’ Cabin and more. 22 November – 3 January More info & booking
Back to the start ⬆️
Thank you!
Thank you for reading! I put these lists together as I love helping families find fun things to do. Please share with anyone that might find this helpful and follow our Instagram for lots of ideas throughout the year @bristolfamilyblog
Disclaimer: The details within this post are correct to the best of my knowledge at the time of adding each event. I cannot be held responsible if any of the above venues are sold out or events are cancelled. Please assume all events require booking unless the event host states otherwise and check opening times as these can vary over the Christmas period. If there is bad weather it is a good idea to check the organiser’s social accounts before heading to an event.
