SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS 29/11/2008 – 11/01/2009

• The Albert Halls, Bolton Town Hall , Bolton, BL1 1RU
• When Snow White’s jealous stepmother, Queen Cruella, consults her magic mirror and discovers that Snow White’s beauty surpasses her own she hatches an evil plan… Get ready for a heart pounding, rip-roaring family adventure, all sprinkled with some fairytale magic to delight audiences young and old.
• Tickets available now, prices vary depending on performance. Group bookings available. Separate School performances also available. Please call Box Office for details.
• Time: 19:00 on every Sun, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat.
• Cost: £ 11.00 / Child: £ 10.00 (Concession £ 10.00 available)
• Age range: All
• Telephone: 01204 334400
• Click here for event webpage.

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS AT SMITHILLS HALL 30/11/2008 – 04/01/2009

• 12:00 – 16:00: Smithills Hall, Smithills Country Park , Smithills Dean Road, Bolton, BL1 7NP
• Come and see Smithills Hall decorated in traditional Medieval, Tudor and Victorian decorations. The decorations have been researched and installed by the Friends of Smithills Hall.
• Cost: £ 3.00 / Child: £ 1.75 (Concession £ 1.75 available)
• Telephone: 01204 332 377
• Email: smithills@bolton.gov.uk
• Click here for more information.

WREATH MAKING 13/12/2008

• 10:00 – 12:00: Moss Bank Park, Smithills , Bolton, BL1 6NQ
• Weave your own willow wreath and decorate it with natural material found around the Park.
• Meet at the entrance to Animal World.
• Cost: FREE
• Telephone: 01204 334343
• Email: rangers@bolton.gov.uk

CHRISTMAS PARK PANTO 14/12/2008

• 14:00 – 15:30: Moses Gate Country Park, Hall Lane, Farnworth
• Get into the spirit of Christmas on this pantomine inspired walk around the Park, featuring the Rangers as you’ve never seen them before.
• Meet at Rock Hall Visitor Centre.
• FREE
• Telephone: 01204 334343
• Email: rangers@bolton.gov.uk

CHRISTMAS STORYTELLING AND DECORATION 14/12/2008

• 12:00 to 15:00: Hall i’th’ Wood, Green Way , off Crompton Way, Bolton, BL1 8UA
• Come and make some Christmas decorations and hear some wonderful Christmas stories. Free entry for children.
• £2.00 / Child: £ 0.00 (Concession £ 1.00 available)
• Telephone: 01204 332370
• Email: museum.hallithwood@bolton.gov.uk

ADVENT 3 14/12/2008

• St Paul’s Church, Holland Street, Astley Bridge, BL1 8PA
• 8:00am Holy Communion
• 9.30am Family Communion
• Preacher: Revd Moira Slack
• 6.30pm Christingle Service
• Preacher: Canon Chris Bracegirdle
• (01204) 304119
• andylindop95@tiscali.co.uk

THE NO.1 CHRISTMAS SHOW 15/12/2008

• 19:30, The Albert Halls, Bolton Town Hall , Bolton, BL1 1RU

This live performance extravaganza brings to life those much-loved favourites by Bing Crosby, Mud, Paul McCartney, Slade, Wizard, John Lennon, and, of course, Cliff. ‘White Christmas’, ‘I Wish it Could Be Christmas Everyday’, ‘Little Saint Nick’, ‘Do They Know it’s Christmas?’ and ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ are just some of the songs lined up to entertain you.

• Cost: £ 15.00 / Child: £ 0.00 (Concession £ 13.50 available)
• Telephone: 01204 334400
• Email: ticketsales@alberthalls-bolton.co.uk
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS TODDLER STORY WALK 16/12/2008

• 10:00 – 11:30, Moses Gate Country Park, Hall Lane , Farnworth
• Join the Ranger for a Christmas tale, then explore the Park and return in time to make a festive ‘make and do’ on this event for pre-school children.
• Meet at Rock Hall Visitor Centre. FREE. Age range: 0 – 7. Booking not required
• Telephone: 01204 334343 Email: rangers@bolton.gov.uk

UNPLUGGED CHRISTMAS JAZZ 18/12/2008 – 19/12/2008

• 19:30, The Octagon Theatre, Howell Croft South , Bolton, BL1 1SB

Get into the season’s swing with this fine selection of festive jazz and renditions of Christmas classics. The band members are students at Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts and have toured the UK extensively.

• This event features cabaret-style seating and a table drinks service.
• Booking required.
• Tickets: £ 9.00 / Child: £ 0.00 (Concession £ 7.00 available)
• Telephone: 01204 520661
• Click here for more information.

ADVENT 4 21/12/2008

• St Paul’s Church, Holland Street, Astley Bridge, BL1 8PA
• 8:00am Holy Communion
• 9.30am Family Communion
• Preacher: Canon Chris Bracegirdle
• 11.15am Baptism Service
• Preacher: Canon Chris Bracegirdle
• 6.30pm Service of Nine Lessons and Carols
• (01204) 304119
  andylindop95@tiscali.co.uk

SANTA’S LETTERBOXING 23/12/2008

• 10:00 – 15:00, Moses Gate Country Park, Hall Lane , Farnworth
• Hidden around the Park are woodland letterboxes each with a message for Santa. Get a map from the Visitor Centre, follow the clues and try to find them all.
• Drop-in any time on the day. The trail will take approximately 45 minutes.
• FREE Age range: 4 – 15 Booking not required.
• Telephone: 01204 334343
• Email: rangers@bolton.gov.uk

CHRISTMAS EVE 24/12/2008

• St Paul’s Church, Holland Street, Astley Bridge, BL1 8PA
• 2.OOpm Crib Service
• 11.30pm First Communion of Christmas
• Preacher: Canon Chris Bracegirdle

CHRISTMAS DAY 25/12/2008

• St Paul’s Church, Holland Street, Astley Bridge, BL1 8PA
• 8:00am Holy Communion
• 9.30am Family Communion
• Preacher: Canon Chris Bracegirdle

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION NOW – 14/12/2008

• 10am – 4pm: Lytham St Annes, Heritage Centre, Henry Street, Lytham, Lancashire FY8 5LE
• Open Tuesday to Sunday. Free admission.
• Tel: 01253 730767
• Click here for more info.

ALADDIN 03/12/2008 – 13/01/2009

• Bank Hey Street, Blackpool, Lancs FY1 4BJ
• Cheer for our hero and boo the evil Abanaza in this unique version of the classic Arabian Nights tale mixed with some Circus magic that will delight all ages.
• Your admission includes Pantomime seats and all the Tower’s attractions.
• Tickets £8 – £28.50 Tel: 0844 856 1111
• Click here for more information.

CINDERELLA 05/12/2008 – 04/01/2009

• Grand Theatre, Church Street, Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 1HT
• This year’s traditional pantomime at the Grand will be full of music and dance, fun and laughter with fabulous costumes and lavish sets – suitable for all the family this Christmas!
• Tickets from £11.00 Tel: 01253 290190
• Click here for more information.

BRUNCH WITH SANTA BLACKPOOL ZOO 06/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• Blackpool Zoo, East Park Drive, Blackpool FY3 8PP

Children aged 5-11 to be left at the Zoo to meet the reindeer, eat brunch and enjoy a craft session before getting a gift from Sants. The rest of the family/party get 20% DISCOUNT ON ZOO ADMISSION.

• Tickets from £10.00
• Tel: 01253 830812

TREEFEST 08 06/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• St Annes Parish Church, Headroomgate, St Annes on Sea, Lancs FY8
• ‘Treefest 08′ will take place in St Annes Parish Church, Headroomgate, St Annes on Sea running in partnership with ‘Cribfest’ Festival of Cribs at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church. The festival is in aid of the Parish Church and local groups/charities. Approximately 20 Christmas Trees will be displayed and each tree will have been decorated by a local charity or group. The event will be held from Saturday 6th to 14th December. A winning tree will be selected at the end of the event. Admission £1.
• Tel: 01253 722725

CRIBFEST 06/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• 2pm to 5pm: Our Lady, Star of the Sea Church, St Annes Road East, Lytham St Annes, Lancs FY8 1UL
• ‘CRIBFEST’ will be running in partnership with ‘TREEFEST’ St Annes Parish Church’s annual charity festival of Christmas Trees.
• Tel: 01253 723661 Fax: 01253 780565

NOGAL PLAYERS PRESENTS “MOTHER GOOSE” 09/12/2008 – 13/12/2008

• 19:30: Lowther Pavillion, West Beach, Lytham, Lancashire FY8 5QQ
• Nogal Players Presents the Pantomime ‘Mother Goose’. A traditional panto with a donation going to Pear Tree School for special needs in Kirkham
• Adults £10, Concession £8, Family Ticket £30 (2+2) Lowther box office on 01253 658666.
• Click here for more information.

Christmas Exhibition

G-WIZZ IT’S CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION 2008 13/12/2008

• 10:00 – 16:30: Assembly Rooms, Dicconson Terrace, Lytham, Lancashire FY8
• Festive model railway exhibition in support of Trinity Hospice & Brian House Children’s Hospice.
• Tickets Adult from £2.00, Child from £1.00
• Tel: 01253 403069
• Click here for event webpage.

SLEEPING BEAUTY – ST PETERSBURG BALLET THEATRE 14/12/2008

• 

  Sleeping Beauty

  7pm: Opera House, Winter Gardens, Church Street, Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 1HW

• At Princess Aurora’s christening Fairy Carabosse is forgotten. In revenge she puts a curse on the baby that she will prick her finger and die, but the Fairy of Goodness and Light turns the curse into a hundred year sleep. Aurora awakes to the kiss of a handsome Prince and they hold a joyous wedding attended by fairy tale figures. Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece score reveals his genius as a ballet composer.
• Tickets from £11.25 to £25.00
• Tel: 0844 856 1111
• Click here for more info.

NUTCRACKER: ST PETERSBURG BALLET THEATRE 15/12/2008

• 

  St Petersburg Ballet Theatre

  7pm: Opera House, Winter Gardens, Church Street, Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 1HW

  Clara and her Nutcracker doll journey to a fantasy Kingdom, meet the Mouse King, the Snow Queen and visit the Land of the Sweets. See the captivating dance of the Sugar Plum and the exotic Arabian Dance, all underpinned by Tchakovsky’s memorable music.

• Adult Ticket from £22.50 to £25.00
• Tel: 0844 856 1111
• Click here for more information.

BLACKPOOL TOWER CHRISTMAS PARTY 20/12/2008

• 19:30 – 23:00: Bank Hey Street, Blackpool, Lancs FY1 4BJ

Celebrate Christmas in the World Famous Blackpool Tower Ballroom. Dance the night away or just sit back and enjoy the unique sound of the Wurlitzer or Wersi performed by some of our resident star musicians. Your ticket price includes a delicious buffet.

• Adult Ticket £12
• Tel: 0844 856 1111
• Click here for more info.

THE MASTERS OF THE HOUSE SING CHRISTMAS 20/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Lowther Pavillion, West Beach, Lytham, Lancashire FY8 5QQ
• Featuring former stars of the West End production of Les Miserables and other London productions with many show favourites from the West End and a Christmas Flavour.
• Why don’t you join the cast for a vocal workshop at 16:00pm and perform with them onstage for the show finale for just £5.00 (with a show ticket).
• Tickets from £13
• Tel: 01253 658666

FRECKLETON BAND ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT 21/12/2008

• Lowther Pavilion, West Beach, Lytham, Lancashire FY8 5QQ
• All the brass band favourites and Christmas carols to sing along to with a Guest Compere.
• Please Contact Lowther Box Office on 01253 658666 for further information about ticket prices and times.
• Tel: 01253 658666

CHRISTMAS ON ICE FEATURING THE WIZARD OF OZ 22/12/2008 – 01/01/2009

• The Arena, Blackpool Pleasure Beach Ltd, Ocean Boulevard, Promenade, BLACKPOOL, Lancs FY4 1EZ
• Enjoy the music of the show, rock and pop classics in this fast paced moving spectacular. Featuring The Wizard of Oz specially choreographed and produced for the ice by Victoria Wyre-Nicholson. Share the excitement of Christmas as local talented amateur ice skaters aged 4-18 perform for you and raise money for local children’s charities.
• Ticket £7.50 – £30
• Tel: 0870 444 55 66

Stained glass window at St Stephen On-the-Cliffs Church, Blackpool

CHRISTMAS EVE 24/12/2008

• St Stephen On-The-Cliffs, Holmfield Road, Blackpool FY2 9RB
• 4.00pm Christingle Service
• 6.00pm Confessions will be heard
• 11.45pmProcession, Solemn Midnight Mass and blessing of the Crib. Sermon.
• Celebrant and Preacher: Canon Andrew Sage SSC
• Telephone 01253 353894 (Parish Office)
• Email ststephensoffice@aol.com

CHRISTMAS DAY 25/12/2008

• St Stephen On-The-Cliffs, Holmfield Road, Blackpool FY2 9RB
• 9.00am Low Mass of the Dawn and homily
• 10.30am Solemn Mass of the Day and Sermon
• Celebrant and Preacher: Fr Tom Davis SSC
• Telephone 01253 353894 (Parish Office)
• Email ststephensoffice@aol.com

• National Waterfront Museum, Oystermouth Road Maritime Quarter Swansea SA1 3RD
• National Waterfront Museum, Oystermouth Road Maritime Quarter Swansea SA1 3RDThe grounds of the National Waterfront Museum are being transformed into a children’s paradise, providing fun for all the family. The Admiral Giant Wheel, one of the biggest touring wheels in the UK AT 44m. In a land not so far away, you shall find:
  • Carousel and rides
  • Real ice skating rink
  • Festive singalongs
  • ‘Snowstorm’ ride – New for 2008
  • Festive food and drink
  • Don’t forget to see Santa in his Grotto!
• For more information please call 01792 635428

BRANGWYN CHRISTMAS PARTY 12/12/2008

• 8.00pm: Brangwyn Hall, The Guildhall, Swansea SA1 4PE
• Join us here at the Brangwyn Hall for a festive night of fine dining and spectacular entertainment. The evening’s menu has been specially selected by our Head Chef who has a wealth of experience in devising menus for prestigious occasions.
• Tickets: £32.00 per head inclusive of food and entertainment.
• Bookings: (01792) 635253

BBC NOW CONCERT 13/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Brangwyn Hall, The Guildhall, Swansea SA1 4PE
• Conductor – Grant Llewellyn
• Piano – Boris Giltburg
  Humperdinck – Prelude, Hansel and Gretel
  Rachmaninov – Piano Concerto No. 2
  Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 1 (Winter Daydreams)
• A Christmas concert full of Russian warmth and seasonal magic. Come and celebrate the festive season with us!
• Tickets: £11 – £14 Box Office: Grand Theatre (01792) 475715

HEARTS FIRST SANTA JOG SWANSEA 2008 14/12/2008

• The Waterfront, Swansea
• Entry Fee: £10.00 (Adult) £5.00 (Child)
• This Christmas the BHF is getting festively fit with a series of fundraising Santa Jogs including two fabulous events in Wales. Join over 500 Santas and take part in the Swansea Santa Jog on Sunday 14th December, starting at 12.30pm.
• This fun-filled 2km route around the waterfront is ideal for all ages and abilities.
• Adults receive a free Santa suit and under-16s are encouraged to use their imagination and come in fancy dress.
• Contact: Events Team 0800 783 6970 westevents@bhf.org.uk
• Click here for more info.

CINDERELLA 17/12/2008 – 18/01/2009

• Grand Theatre, Singleton Street, Swansea
• Starring Su Pollard, Chris Jarvis, Sarah Thomas, Kevin Johns, Frank Vickery and Nia Jermin. Plus The Sensational Shetland Ponies
• For more information and for tickets please contact Box Office on 01792 475715
• Tickets range from £7.50 – £18.00 with selected concessions available.
• There will be an *Audio described performance on 3rd Jan at 2.00pm
• There will be *sign interpreted performances on 7th Jan at 2.00pm, 8th Jan at 7.00pm, 14th Jan at 7.00pm and 15th Jan at 2.00pm
• Click here for more details.

DUNVANT MALE VOICE CHOIR 19/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Brangwyn Hall, The Guildhall, Swansea SA1 4PE
• Annual Christmas Concert.
• Compere – David Vaughan
  Guest Artist – Ariosa Singers
  Choir Music Director – Jonathan Rogers
  Music Director Ariosa Singers – Penny Ryan
• Tickets: £10, £8 & £6
• Box Office: Contact Eric Jones on (01792) 873438

MESSIAH 20/12/2008

• Featuring Morriston Tabernacle Choir
• 7pm: Brangwyn Hall, The Guildhall, Swansea SA1 4PE
• Soprano – Claire Watkins
  Alto – Antonia Sotgiu
  Tenor – Richard Allen
  Bass – Martin Lloyd
• Tickets: £12 (£10 concessions, children half price)
• Box Office: Grand Theatre (01792 475715)

SALVATION ARMY CAROL CONCERT 21/12/2008

• 3pm and 7pm: Brangwyn Hall, The Guildhall, Swansea SA1 4PE
• Join us for a feast of Christmas music plus traditional carols that everyone loves with The Salvation Army Band Songsters and special guests Morriston Rugby Football Club Male Voice Choir. A collection will be made in aid of the Lord Mayor’s Charities.
• Admission: Free
• Box Office: (01792) 475715

CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT 23/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Brangwyn Hall, The Guildhall, Swansea SA1 4PE
• Come and join us for this annual popular event featuring Christmas favourites, carols and traditional melodies introduced and conducted by Alwyn Humphries. With minced pies and mulled wine, this is the best possible start for the festive season.
• Tickets: £10 standard, £8 concessions
• Box Office: Grand Theatre (01792) 475715

• Peterborough Museum, Priestgate, Peterborough, PE1 1LF
  Tel: (01733) 343329 Fax: (01733) 341928
  E-mail: museum@peterborough.gov.uk
• 10 am to 7 pm on Saturday 13 December and 12noon until 4pm on Sunday 14 December
• Free
• A fun-packed Christmas Fayre to celebrate the festive season, including live winter animals, a craft fair and a range of activities for families.
• One of the star attractions will be two live reindeer, Jingle and Belle, which will be dropping into the museum between 11 am and 4 pm on Saturday. On Sunday live Huskies will be paying a visit. Santa Claus will be in his grotto to receive requests for Christmas presents, with a charge of £2 per child to meet Santa and get an early Christmas present. Refreshments will be on offer, including a selection of mouth-watering home-made cakes. The museum will also be opening its Christmas exhibition on Saturday.

Jingle & Belle Reindeer at Museum

SANTA SPECIALS AT NENE VALLEY RAILWAY 13/12/2008 – 24/12/2008 C

• next to the A1 at Stibbington – West of Peterborough
• Your Santa experience starts with a welcome from our station staff then an enjoyable visit to Santa’s log cabin. THOMAS will be in steam around Wansford during your visit. Families then join the decorated train for a 55 minute ride to Peterborough and return. During the journey our train staff serve the children with a Thomas drink and some chocolate or sweets. Parents and other adults are given a serving of a mince pie with either an alcoholic miniature, wine or a hot drink. Santa walks through the train to see the children and to wish everyone the compliments of the season.
• FARES £10 – £19.50
• Children under 12 months of age travel FREE and receive a complimentary present when a ticket is booked for them.
• Advance Booking Essential Phone 01780 782833 or 01780 784444 – between 10am and 3pm
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTINGLE SERVICE 13/12/2008

• 3pm: Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• Popular service for children and families with the presentation of Christingle Candles

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 14/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Peterborough Jazz Club
• Anita Wardell Quintet
• Tickets £15 call 01733 571764 to book
• Anita Wardell (vocals), Alex Garnett (saxophone), Robin Aspland (piano), Jeremy Brown (double bass), Steve Brown (drums)
• The fabulous Anita Wardell makes her first visit to the club with her all-star band, featuring top saxophonist Alex Garnett.

SNOW WHITE 15/12/2008 – 03/01/2009

• 

  Snow White in Peterborough

  The Cresset Theatre, Rightwell, Bretton Centre, Peterborough PE3 8DX

• A vibrant cast, exciting dance routines, fabulous sets, stunning costumes, special effects and lots action and laughter – all designed to captivate both young & old.
• We have 31 performances (including matinees, evenings and weekends) to choose from, with a wide range of great value for money ticket prices ranging from just £10.00. Call 01733 265705 to book.
• Click here for more info.

CANDLELIT CAROLS 16/12/2008

• 7.30pm: St Mary’s Church & Centre, New Road, Peterborough PE1 1TT

4 GIRLS 4 HARPS 17/12/2008

• 7.30 pm, St Mary Magdalene Church, Church Street, Stilton, Cambridgeshire, PE7 3RF, England

4 Girls 4 Harps, a professional harp quartet of four award-winning artists, are coming to Stilton village on Wednesday 17th December to give a performance by candlelight in the warm and beautiful church of St Mary Magdalene. The quartet, who have performed live on BBC Radio 2’s Friday Night is Music Night, will play their own arrangements of festive music, such as Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, Sleigh Ride by Leroy Anderson and The Twelve Days of Christmas. The flautist Kate Osborne will join the quartet for a couple of numbers.

• Ticket Prices: £6 (£4 Concessions, free for under 16s) – Tickets available from Eleanor on 01780 766559 or on the door
• Click here for details.

KINGS SCHOOL CHRISTMAS CONCERT 17/12/2008

• 7.00pm: Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• The King’s School Choirs, Orchestra and Brass Band playing “traditional carols and Christmas music.

POETRY AND PIES 19/12/2008

• 7pm – 9.30pm: John Clare Theatre, Broadway, Peterborough
• Join us for an Evening of Poetry and Pies with Robin Herne, Chief Bard of the Fens, Mark Grist – Funny, must see outgoing Poet Laureate (07/08) and Stefan Allen Celtic Storyteller/Har
• Refreshments available with a free mince pie.
• Entry £4 on night.
• Click here for more information.

HANDEL’S MESSIAH 19/12/2008

• 7.00pm: Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• A spell binding candlelit performance of George Handel’s most famous classical work performed by Peterborough Cathedral Choir and period Orchestra Charivari Agreable. The beautiful Becket Chapel (opposite the Cathedral) will also be open from 5.00-6.30pm for homemade winter soup and hot ciabattas and wraps and discounted accommodation packages also available through the new Park Inn hotel nearby.
• Tickets available from Peterborough Tourist Information Centre:
  Front block £15, £10 (Concessions – Under 16s & Students only)
  Back block £10, £5 (Concessions – Under 16s & Students only)

STAMFORD CHORAL SOCIETY 20/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Stamford School Hall, 17 St. Pauls St, Stamford, PE9 2BE
  01780 750302‎
• Rossini Petite Messe Solennelle
• Click here for Stamford Choral Society website.

Stamford Brass

THE BIG CHRISTMAS CONCERT – STAMFORD BRASS 20/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre, Radcliffe Close, Stamford, PE9 1AR
• Tickets £6/5 from the Corn Exchange box office 01780 766455 sukies 01780 754829 or Stamford Arts Centre
• Click here for Stamford Brass events diary.

CHRISTINGLE 20/12/2008

• 4pm: St Mary’s Church & Centre, New Road, Peterborough PE1 1TT

CHRISTMAS EVE 24/12/2008

• Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• 4.00pm Service of readings & carols
• 8.00pm Carols with the Salvation Army
• 11.30pm BBC TV LIVE BROADCAST Cathedral Midnight Eucharist. Doors open 10.30pm. Please be seated by 11.00pm

CHRISTMAS DAY 25/12/2008

• Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS
• 8.00am Holy Communion (BCP)
• 10.20am BBC TV LIVE BROADCAST Sung Eucharist on Christmas Day. Please be seated by 9.50am
• 3.30pm Evensong with Procession

CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE 25/12/2008

• 10.30am: The Westgate Church, 70 Westgate PE1 1RG
  t: 01733 311043

• Kingsway Shopping Centre
• In aid of St Davids Foundation Hospice Care
• Visit Santa!
• Monday – Wednesday 11.00am – 5.00pm
  Thursday 11.00am – 7.30pm
  Friday 11.00pm – 5.00pm
  Saturday 10.30am – 5.00pm
  Sunday 21st Dec 11.00am – 2.00pm
• £3.00 – Visit Santa and receive a gift.
  £5.00 – Visit Santa, receive a gift and a photograph.

FARMERS’ MARKET Every Friday until Christmas

• 

  Newport Farmers' Market

  10am- 2pm: Bridge Street between Commercial Street and High Street

• Newport Farmers Market has established itself as the place to shop for fresh and full flavoured food!
• A typical market contains

  • Welsh cheeses
  • Range of Celtic wines and whiskies
  • Hot and fresh veggie burgers
  • Eggs
  • Preserves (including diabetic jams)

  • Hand creams and beauty products
  • Cakes, breads and other baked goods

  as well as a range of herbs, olives etc.

• If you are interested in having a stall, please contact the Market Manager, Martin Atkinson on 07976 551023 or goodfoodwales@aol.com

SLEEPING BEAUTY 04/12/2008 – 03/01/2009

• The Riverfront, Bristol Packet Wharf, Newport NP20 1HG, South Wales
  
• Family fun with Sleeping Beauty, a sparkling story of a princess who sleeps for a hundred years…
• Tickets £5 – £49
  
• Click here for more info.
  

Christmas Tree

CHRISTMAS AT TREDEGAR HOUSE

• Tredegar House, Newport, South Wales, NP10 8YW
• Saturday 13th, Sunday 14th, Thursday 18th, Friday 19th, Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st December

Discover beautifully restored rooms at your own pace, traditionally decorated and full of music and merriment, listen to seasonal music and carols and talk to costumed characters throughout the House. A visit with Santa who brings a gift for every child, mince pies and mulled wine in the Medieval Hall and a Christmas Market are just some of the ingredients of Christmas at Tredegar House.

• Tickets must be booked in advance by telephoning (01633) 656 757
  Adults £9.00 Children (3-15 yrs) £3.50 Group (20 +) £8.00 per person
• Telephone: (01633) 815 880
  Fax: (01633) 815 895
  Email: tredegar.house@newport.gov.uk
• Click here for more info.

Newport Cathedral Choir

CHRISTMAS CONCERT WITH NEWPORT CATHEDRAL CHOIR 11/12/2008

• 7.30pm: The Riverfront, Bristol Packet Wharf, Newport NP20 1HG, South Wales
• Enter the mood of the festive season as the boys and men of the choir, with a guest soloist, sing Christmas favourites old and new for your delight and lead the audience in well known carols.
• Tickets £6.50 – £26 phone: 01633 656757
• Click here for more info.

ROBIN HOOD 11/12/2008 – 13/12/2008

• Dolman Theatre, Kingsway, Newport NP20 1HY
• An early Christmas treat for the children with this Dolman Youth Theatre (opens new website) production! Action packed fun and a great break from Christmas shopping!
• Tickets £8 adults £3 children ring 01633263670
• Click here for more details.

CAROLS AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE 18/12/2008

• 18.30pm – 19.30pm: Around the Christmas Tree on Bridge Street
• St. Anne’s Hospice. Choir consists of children from Hartridge High School

Street Theatre in Newport

SEASONAL SATURDAYS STREET THEATRE 20/12/2008

• 11am – 4pm: Commercial Street, Bridge Street and High Street
• Just in case you weren’t yet feeling festive, we have just the music and dance to get you into the festive spirit, perfect to accompany that last minute shopping!

VIGIL MASS 24/12/2008

• St Mary’s RC Church, 9 Stow Hill, Newport, NP20 1TP
  01633 265533‎
• 6.30pm
• 9pm

CHRISTMAS DAY 25/12/2008

• St Mary’s RC Church, 9 Stow Hill, Newport, NP20 1TP
  01633 265533‎
• 9.30am
• 11.15am
• No evening mass

• York Designer Outlet, St Nicholas Avenue, Fulford, York, YO19 4TA
• The Christmas Grotto located in the North entrance will be open weekdays 1:30-5:30pm, Saturdays 11am – 6pm and Sundays 12pm – 5pm right up until Christmas Eve.
• Prices £3.25 to Visit Santa with a gift or photo, £6.00 to Visit Santa with a gift and photo
• Contact: York Designer Outlet Tel: 01904 628700
• Click here for more info.

CASTLE HOWARD AT CHRISTMAS 29/11/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 10.00am – 4.00pm: Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
• Yorkshire Tourist Board White Rose Winner, Visitor Experience of the Year 2007
• A unique opportunity to see Castle Howard by candlelight and dressed for Christmas. Includes yuletide entertainment, visits from Father Christmas, festive gifts and foods, plus seasonal menus.
• Prices £6.50 – £27.50
• Contact: Visitor Service Tel: 01653 648333 house@castlehoward.co.uk
• Click here for more info.

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTMAS FAYRE 03/12/2008 – 17/12/2008

• Parliament Street, York, YO1 8SE
• York welcomes a new visiting market this Christmas which will bring a modern festive atmosphere with gifts, smells and tastes from around the world. On weekdays, visit the ‘food court’, where liveried chefs will serve traditional and new continental delicacies. Into the evenings, festive illuminations from around the world will add to the ambience as shoppers can enjoy festive music, visiting pantomime characters and warming gluhwein in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower and other iconic images.
• There will be something a little special at this year’s market, ensuring a Christmas event to remember. Open daily from 9am till late. Come along and see for yourself!
• Contact: Darren Lovatt Tel: 01904 551355

DICK TURPIN THE PANTO 11/12/2008 – 31/01/2009

• 19:30: York Theatre Royal, St. Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
• Join Dame Betty Turpin, her nephew Dick, and his horse Black Mess in what promises to be the most hilarious historically incorrect pantomime you’re ever likely to see.
• Tickets: £10 – £24
• Tel: 01904 623568
• boxoffice@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
• Click here for more information.

Jack and the Beanstalk in York

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 12/12/2008 – 04/01/2009

• 19:00 to 22:00 14:30 to 17:00
• Full of trickery and fun, with a magical beanstalk that will grow before your very eyes, don’t miss this year’s traditional family pantomime. This brand new show features beautiful costumes plus lots of singing and dancing to enchant the whole family. The perfect festive treat, book now for the best seats. Just remember to watch out for the giant!
• Tickets: £9 – £17 Family Tickets from £37
• Contact: Grand Opera House York Tel: 0844 847 2322
• yorkboxoffice@livenation.co.uk
• Click here for more info.

ST PETER’S SCHOOL CAROL SERVICE 12/12/2008

• 14:30, Nave, York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for the York Minster Calendar.

GOOD KING WENCESLAS AND THE EARLY MUSIC MOVEMENT 13/12/2008

• 3pm: National Centre for Early Music, St Margarets Church, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TL
• An illustrated entertainment presented by David Owen Norris – and as man keyboards as we can lay our hands on – in the company of JM Neale, Thomas Helmore and Sir Arthur Sullivan.
• Tickets: £6.00
• Contact: National Centre for Early Music Tel: 01904 658338

N.YORKS. EAST FEDERATION WOMEN’S INSTITUTE’S CAROL SERVICE 13/12/2008

• 14:00, York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• North Yorkshire East Federation Women’s Institues Carol Service (Nave).
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

MINSTER MINSTRELS 14/12/2008

• 3pm: National Centre for Early Music, St Margarets Church, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TL
• Green Grow’th the Holly. Join York’s young early music ensemble, as they celebrate Christmas past through Instrumental and Vocal Music from the Middle Ages to the 18th century.
• Tickets: £3.50
• Contact: National Centre for Early Music Tel: 01904 658338

TRADITIONAL CAROL SERVICE WITH RIDING LIGHTS 14/12/2008

• 7pm: York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• St Michael-le-Belfrey & York Minster. Traditional Carol Service in York Minster with drama from Riding Lights Theatre Company.
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

YORK AGAINST CANCER CAROL SERVICE 15/12/2008

• 7pm: (Nave), York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

DECK THE HALL: A MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS

• Barley Hall, 2 Coffee Yard, York, YO1 8AR
• Wed 10 – Sat 13 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
• Wed 17 – Sat 20 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
• Visit the Hall decorated for yuletide and at 11.00am and 2.30pm hear about the festive traditions of the period.
• Adult £3 – £13.50
• Reservations Tel: 01904 615505

CANDLELIT VICTORIAN POETRY & CAROLS 18/12/2008

• 19:00 to 22:00, Bar Convent, 17 Blossom Street, York, YO24 1AQ

Come and celebrate Christmas in traditional Victorian family style. This is a fun and festive evening led by your Victorian Hostess in the bedecked Victorian Entrance Hall in of the Bar Convent. In true Victorian style we will be singing Christmas carols round the piano (led by All Saints Sixth Form Choir) and hearing seasonal poems and readings.

• Tickets: £12.50 including mulled wine and Christmas Fayre
• Contact: Lynn Gale Tel: 01904 643238 reception@bar-convent.org.uk
• Click here for the Convent events webpage.

CHAPTER HOUSE CHOIR CAROLS

• York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Thu 18 Dec 2008 20:00
  Fri 19 Dec 2008 20:00
  Sat 20 Dec 2008 20:00
• Chapter House Choir Carols by Candelight (Chapter House). Tickets on sale at the West End of the Minster from 29th November 2008.
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557200
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

KOSHKA 19/12/2008

• 19:30, National Centre for Early Music, St Margarets Church, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TL

Gypsy super-trio Koshka brings a seasonal flavour from Russia. Vibrant, enthralling Gypsy music, played with outrageous bravura and a touch of wit and innovation, is interspersed with Russian tale and anecdote to give an insight into the traditions of winter and Christmas in a very different culture.

• Tickets: £12.00 (concessions £10.00; students £5.00)
• Contact: Caroline Sartin Tel: 01904 658338

Christmas at the National Railway Museum

FESTIVE FUN AT THE NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM 20/12/2008 – 04/01/2009

• 10:00 to 18:00, National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York, YO26 4XJ

Join us at the National Railway Museum for festive fun this Christmas holiday. We have got plenty going on to entertain children of all ages including help to fix Santa’s broken down sleigh, fascinating object handling sessions, interactive story telling, trackwise safety sessions and you can even create your very own glittering Christmas Bug!

• Notes Closed 24th-26th December
• Contact: National Railway Museum Tel: 08448 153 404
• Click here for more info.

YORK MINSTER NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS SERVICE

• York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Mon 22 Dec 2008 19:00
• Wed 24 Dec 2008 16:00
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557216
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

YORK MINSTER: CRIB SERVICE 24/12/2008

• 12:00, York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557216
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

YORK MINSTER: MIDNIGHT MASS & BLESSING OF THE CRIB 24/12/2008

• 23:30, York Minster, Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
• Please arrive early to ensure a seat, doors will open approximately 10:45pm.
• Contact: York Minster Tel: 01904 557216
• Click here for York Minster calendar.

Contents (click to go to the relevant section):

Christmas Shows

Christmas Fairs

Christmas Activities

Christmas Concerts

Christmas Church Services

Christmas Shows

OTELLO – WELSH NATIONAL OPERA 05/12/2008

• 

  Welsh National Opera - Otello

  7.15pm: New Theatre, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG

• This tragic work charts the downfall of the noble Moorish General Otello – who loses everything he loves, including his own sanity, through the envy, ambition, duplicity and hatred of his lieutenant Iago. This calculating villain ensnares Otello’s wife Desdemona and convinces him of her infidelity – resulting in tragedy.
• £15.00 – £49.50
• Sung in Italian with English subtitles
• Pre-performance talk on Tues 2 Dec at 6.15pm in Wesley Memorial Church.
• Click here for more details.

SLEEPING BEAUTY 06/12/2008 – 18/01/2009

• Various times: Oxford Playhouse Theatre, Beaumont Street, Oxford, UK OX1 2LW
• Box Office 01865 305305
• Sleeping Beauty will take you on an enchanting journey of dashing princes, evil witches and dastardly curses. You’ll meet good fairies, bad fairies, kings, queens and princesses and be swept along on a rollercoaster of hilarious comedy, gorgeous costumes and sleeping bags full of fun for all the family.
• Tickets from £10.50

Christmas Fairs

CONTEMPORARY CRAFT SHOW AT THE BARN AT THE GREEN 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 10:00 to 17:00: The Barn at the Green, Barn in lane adjacent to 12 The Green, Cuddesdon, Wheatley, Oxfordshire, OX44 9JZ
• Come and choose from an exciting range of contemporary arts and crafts all by local artists and craftsmen. Jessica Knott – handwoven silk scarves, Ewa Exley – felt textiles, Ann Collinson – hand built ceramics, Sarah Dearling – stone carving, Mark Austin – woodwork, Clare Wratten – silver jewellery, Heather Power – fused and kiln formed glass, Grace Exley – drawings, Jane Hanson – Pottery.
• Mince pies and mulled wine available.
• Free entry
• sarah.dearling@smoothstone.myzen.co.uk

CHRISTMAS MARKET AT GLOUCESTER GREEN 10/12/2008 – 13/12/2008

• Gloucester Green, Oxford, OX1
• Free entry
• Also, every Wednesday 9am – 3pm
• Contact Peter Chilton Tel: 01865 252133

Christmas Shows

THAT’LL BE THE DAY CHRISTMAS SHOW 13/12/2008

• 7.30pm: New Theatre, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG
• Join in and treat yourself to an early Christmas pressie and celebrate the festive season with all those Christmas hits from the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80’s mixed with feel good comedy.
• £15.00 – £21.50
• Click here for more information.

FLASHDANCE THE MUSICAL 15/12/2008 – 03/01/2009

• New Theatre, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG

Set in Pittsburgh, USA, FLASHDANCE The Musical tells the story of 18 year old Alex, a welder by day and “flashdance” by night, whose dream is to obtain a place at the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy.

• £11.50 – £30.00
• Click here for more information.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL AT OFS STUDIO 16/12/2008 – 20/12/2008

• OFS Studio, 40 George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AQ
• ‘Marley was dead to begin with….’ BMH bring a new adaptation of Dickens work to the OFS Studio for one week only! Ebenezer Scrooge is an old miser, with a cold heart and a dislike of humanity. It takes the actions of three spirits one Christmas Eve to change his life, forever!
• £8.00 – £10.00
• Click here for more information.

Christmas Activities

ADVENT WEEKEND AT COGGES MANOR FARM MUSEUM 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 11:00 to 16:00: Cogges Manor Farm Museum, Church Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX28 3LA

Delight in the Manor House dressed for Christmas with traditional evergreen decorations, listen to carols while sampling hot mince pies. Make sugar mice or fairy peg dolls and Christmas gifts to buy. Enjoy a visit from Santa.

• Click here for more information.
• The Manager: Tel: 01993 772602

CHRISTMAS GROTTO AT TEMPLARS SQUARE 06/12/2008 – 24/12/2008

• Templars Square, Templars Square, Cowley, Oxford, OX4 3XH
• There will also be free ‘life size’ fairground rides and attractions, free face painting, and a fantastic free to enter Wizard of Oz competition for children to take part in. In addition to our fantastic Christmas Grotto, there will also be free face painting, and even more free entertainment on the 6th, 13th, 20th, 22nd, and 23rd December, and on Christmas Eve, we’re giving away free candy floss, pop corn, and chocolate apples!
• Dates and Times Dates Times
• Sat 6 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
  Sun 7 Dec 2008 11:00 to 15:00
  Sat 13 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
  Sun 14 Dec 2008 11:00 to 15:00
  Sat 20 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
  Sun 21 Dec 2008 11:00 to 15:00
  Mon 22 – Wed 24 Dec 2008 10:00 to 16:00
• Templars Square: Tel: 01865 748864
• Click here for more details.

CHRISTMAS TRAINS AT LEIGHTON BUZZARD NARROW GAUGE RAILWAY 06/12/2008 – 24/12/2008

• 

  Santa on a Steam Train

  Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway, Page’s Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, IU7 4TN

  A 25-minute ride in a festively decorated steam train, along a unique narrow-gauge railway that is almost 90 years old. A thrilling walk through the Magic Tunnel to meet Santa, where children will receive a quality present.

• Seasonal refreshments for all in the friendly atmosphere of the station buffet.
• Adult £7.00 Child (aged 2 to 15 years) £7.00 Child (under 2 years) £3.00
• Sat 6, Sun 7 Dec 2008
  Wed 10 Dec 2008
  Sat 13, Sun 14 Dec 2008
  Wed 17 Dec 2008
  Sat 20, Sun 21 Dec 2008
  Wed 24 Dec 2008
• Booking Line (UK Only) Tel: 08444 77 1000
• www.buzzrail.co.uk

CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND AT NOTCUTTS GARDEN CENTRE 06/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• Notcutts Garden Centre, Nuneham Courtney, Oxfordshire, OX44 9PY
• Customers travel for miles to enjoy the Notcutts Christmas Wonderland, a magical profusion of lights, colours and sounds that can make children of us all at this time of year. Familiar Christmas characters (Santa himself visits at the weekends running up to Christmas) are present in a variety of guises.
• Free entry
• Sat 6, Sun 7 Dec 2008
  Sat 13, Sun 14 Dec 2008
  Sat 20, Sun 21 Dec 2008
• Notcutts Tel: 01865 343454 oxford@notcutts.co.uk
• Click here for more info.

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS & SANTA AT BUCKINGHAMSHIRE RAILWAY CENTRE 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Nr Aylesbury, Bucks, HP22 4BY
• Last December, children from far and wide descended into the sleepy village of Quainton to visit the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre. A magical day was had by all that attended with fantastic entertainment and the opportunity to meet Father Christmas aboard his little blue steam engine.
• Prices start at £11.00 per person (all inclusive)
• Sat 6, Sun 7 Dec 2008 10:30 to 16:30
  Sat 13, Sun 14 Dec 2008 10:30 to 16:30
• Railway Tel: 01296 655720
• Click here for more information.

‘THREE DECEMBER SATURDAYS’ 06/12/2008 – 20/12/2008

• Oxford City Centre, Oxford, OX1 3HY
• OX1’s promotion of Oxford shopping for Christmas, featuring street entertainers, Christmas street ambassadors, in-store events, and a handy guide to Oxford at Christmas.
• Free entry
• Sat 6 Dec 200, Sat 13 Dec 2008, Sat 20 Dec 2008

SANTA’S GROTTO AT OXFORD CASTLE 07/12/2008 – 16/12/2008

• Noon: Oxford Castle, The Treadwheel, 43 Oxford Castle, Oxford, OX1 1AY
• Santa’s Grotto at Oxford Castle!
• £2.00
• Sun 7 – Tue 9 Dec 2008 12:00 to 18:00
• Sun 14 – Tue 16 Dec 2008 12:00 to 18:00
• Oxford Castle Tel: 01865 201657
• Click here for more information.

SEARCHING FOR THE YETI AT SCIENCE OXFORD 09/12/2008

• 

  Searching for the Yeti

  19:30 to 21:00: Science Oxford, 1-5 London Place, St Clements, Oxford, OX4 1BD

  Could the Abominable Snowman really be out there? Could the Yeti really exist, or is it just a popular legend? Anthropologist and primate expert, Dr Anna Nekaris, will be explaining how you find unknown animals, looking at examples of new species of primate still being discovered today, and exploring the likelihood of the Yeti’s existence. She will also bring us up-to-date with recent research into unidentified hairs reportedly taken from a Yeti-like creature in India.

• £3.00
• Science Oxford Tel: 01865 728953
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS LECTURE AT SCIENCE OXFORD 10/12/2008

• 18:30 to 20:30: Science Oxford, 1-5 London Place, St Clements, Oxford, OX4 1BD

To celebrate the festive season and to coincide with our hosting of Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year, Nick Baker will deliver the Science Oxford Christmas Lecture. Whether beetles or Brown bears, millipedes or Mountain Gorillas, snails or sharks, Nick Baker is the natural choice of guide.

• Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for children; SO Friends go free.
• Contact Science Oxford Tel: 01865 728953
• Click here for more info.

CHRISTMAS FAMILY FUN AT BLACKWELL’S BOOKSHOP 13/12/2008

• Blackwell’s Bookshop, 53 Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BQ
• This will feature an array of fun and entertainment including an appearance by Korky Paul who will be treating children to storytelling, drawing and workshops.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT CREATIONS 23/12/2008

• Museum of Oxford, St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DZ
• Make some last minute Christmas crafts to decorate your home. Suitable for 5 to 12 year olds. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Prices £2.00
• 10:30 to 11:30 14:00 to 15:00
• Museum of Oxford Tel: 01865 252761
• What’s On at the Museum of Oxford

Christmas Concerts

FESTIVE MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT AT BLENHEIM PALACE 05/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• 

  Blenheim Palace

  Fri 5 Dec 11:00
  Sun 7 Dec 14:00
  Fri 12 – Sun 14 Dec 11:00 14:00

• Friday 5th December: Our Ladies Junior School Choir will sing in the Long Library from 11am
• Sunday 7th December 2pm Long Library: The Blenheim Singers return for the festive season with a wonderful performance of Handel’s Messiah accompanied by a small Baroque consort. Seated tickets are available at £5 per person, please call 01993 811091 to book.
• 12th – 14th December: Carol singing and a silver band performing in the Long Library. The Marlborough School will sing on the 12th from 11am, with Cranford House singing on the 13th at 11am, and The Oxford Silver Band play festive favourites in the afternoon. On the 14th, Daneshill School choir will sing carols in the Long Library at 11am, and The Oxford Silver Band will play festive favourites from 2pm as the season draws to a close.
• Palace, Park & Garden prices apply for a full fixture.

CRANFORD CHORAL SOCIETY – HANDEL’S MESSIAH AT DORCHESTER ABBEY 06/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Dorchester Abbey, High Street, Dorchester-on-Thames, Wallingford, Oxon, OX10 7HH

Come and hear popular local choir Cranford Chroral Society sing Handel’s Messiah in the exquisitely atmospheric surroundings of Dorchester Abbey, accompanied by the St. Giles Orchestra from Oxford. A great way to start the Christmas season.

• £10 (£7.50/£5 concessions)
• Ticket Office Tel: 01865 305305

AGE CONCERN OXFORDSHIRE CAROL CONCERT 09/12/2008

• 

  Christ Church, Oxford

  2pm: Christ Church, St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DP

  Age Concern Oxfordshire invites all older people, their families and carers to a carol service at Christ Church Cathedral at 2pm on Tuesday 9th December in the presence of The Bishop of Ebbsfleet, Rt Revd Andrew Burnham.

• Free entry
• Contact Kerry Bateman Tel: 01235 849400 kerrybateman@ageconcernoxon.org.uk

CHRISTMAS AT CHRIST CHURCH 17/12/2008 & 20/12/2008

• Doors 7.30pm: Christ Church, St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DP
• Christ Church Cathedral Choir, Jean Marsh Reader, Robert Hardy Reader (Saturday Only), Victoria Davies Harp
• This evening of uplifting music and thoughtful readings will inspire and invigorate you for the whole Christmas period. Very special guests Robert Hardy and Jean Marsh bring to life some of the best Christmas poetry and prose to reflect and to amuse as well as a beautiful selection of choral gems performed by the celestial Christ Church Cathedral Choir.
• £10 – £40, discounts available. No admittance to Under 6’s.
• Booking Office Tel: 01865 305305

OXFORD BACH CHOIR – CAROL CONCERT 19/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AZ
• Conductor: Timothy Byram-Wigfield
• Click here for event page.

HANDEL MESSIAH 20/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Sheldonian Theatre, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3AZ
• Handel’s masterpiece, under the insightful direction of Marios Papadopolous, is a not-to-be-missed highlight of the Christmas season.
• Prices £37/£26/£17.50/£10 (Concessions Available)
• Ticket Office Tel: 01865 305305

LORD MAYORS CAROL CONCERT 21/12/2008

• 14:30 to 16:30: Oxford Town Hall, Oxford City Council, St Aldates, Oxford, OX1 1DZ
• Must be seated by 2.15pm. Tickets available from Oxford Town Hall from 1st December 2008.
• The Lord Mayors Sectretary Tel: 01865 249811 management@oxford.gov.uk

CHRISTMAS ARIAS ON ICE 21/12/2008 & 22/12/2008

• Oxford Ice Rink, Oxpens Road, Oxford, OX1 1RX
• Arias, songs and carols.
• Prices £12.50/£10/£5
• Sun 21, Mon 22 Dec 2008 17:30 20:30
• Click here for event page.

A CANDLELIT CHRISTMAS CONCERT 23/12/2008

• 8pm: St John’s College, St Giles, Oxford, OX1 3JP
• A Candlelit Christmas Concert with Liedertafel vocal ensemble and Colin Dexter (creator of Inspector Morse) – reader.
• Tickets £10.00
• Click here for more information.

Christmas Church Services

INTERNATIONAL ADVENT CAROL SERVICE 07/12/2008

• 6pm: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Free entry
• Click here for more info.

ADVENT 2 07/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662) (Canon Sue Booys)
• 10.15 am Morning Service
• (Canon Sue Booys; preacher Revd Bob Whorton, Chaplain from Sobell House)
• 2.30 pm Reflections service for bereaved parents

ADVENT 3 14/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662) (Revd Richard Miller)
• 10.00 am Sung Eucharist (Canon Sue Booys)
• 3.00 pm St John’s Ambulance Carol Service

CHRISTMAS SERVICE OF NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS 21/12/2008

• 6pm: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Festival of 9 lessons and carols sung by St Mary’s choir
• Church Tel: 01865 279111
• Click here for more info.

ADVENT 4 21/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662) (Canon Sue Booys)
• 10.15 am Holy Communion with hymns (Canon Sue Booys)
• 6.00 pm Lessons and Carols (Canon Sue Booys)

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS SERVICE 22/12/2008

• 4pm: Saint Michael at the North Gate, Church Tower, Cornmarket, Oxford, OX1 3EY
• … complete with donkey who will be meeting the public in cornmarket about an hour beforehand.

CHRISTMAS CRIB SERVICE 24/12/2008

• 16:30: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Free entry
• Click here for more info

CHRISTMAS EVE 24/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 4.30 pm Crib Service (Canon Sue Booys)
• 11.30 pm Midnight Mass (Canon Sue Booys, Preacher: David Gifford)

MIDNIGHT MASS 24/12/2008

• 23:30: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Free entry
• Click here for more info

MIDNIGHT MASS AT NEW COLLEGE 24/12/2008

• 11:30: New College, Holywell Street, Oxford, OX1 3BN

New College has one of the most beautiful chapels in Oxford and one of the finest choir schools. The college has no Christmas services after the end of the university term in early December, so one of the few chances the public has to hear Christmas carols in the college is during this service at 11.30pm on Christmas Eve.

• Free entry
• Contact Tel: 01865 279555
• New College Midnight Mass webpage.

CHRISTMAS DAY 25/12/2008

• Dorchester Abbey, Oxfordshire
• 8.00 am Holy Communion (1662) (Canon Sue Booys)
• 10.15 am Christmas Family Communion (Canon Sue Booys)

CHRISTMAS DAY EUCHARIST 25/12/2008

• 10:30: St Mary the Virgin Church, High Street, Oxford, OX1 4AH
• Free entry
• Click here for more info

• The Mall Norwich, 100 The Mall Norwich, Norwich NR1 3DD
• 01603717416
• The Craft Market will take place during normal opening hours and will be located outside Boots on level one of the city shopping centre. Stalls will feature a host of handcrafted produce from jewellery, pottery and Christmas cards to handmade decorations and handbags. On display will be a selection of local goods to enjoy including jam preserves, homemade cakes, speciality oils and locally produced beers.

BURE VALLEY RAILWAY SANTA SPECIALS 29/11/2008 – 24/12/2008

• Bure Valley Railway, Aylsham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham NR11 6BW
• 01263 733858
• Catch the Santa Train from Wroxham Station to visit Santa in his Grotto at Aylsham station. Santa and his reindeer sleigh arrive with a personalised gift for each child. Mulled wine and mince pies for the grown ups and fizzy drinks with Christmas cookies for kids complete the festive visit in the Whistlestop before your return journey on the Santa Special.
• £12 per person (for both adults and children) Booking essential.
• How to get here by public transport, Connecting Network rail from Wroxham or local bus servicers.

THE FORUM ICE RINK, NORWICH 29/11/2008 – 02/01/2009

• 10am – 8pm daily: Millennium Plain, Bethel Street. Norwich. NR2 1TF
• 01603 727905
• Get a slice of real ice this Christmas as Millennium Plain at The Forum is again transformed into a magical ice rink, providing a focal point for the city’s celebrations.
• Prices from £4
• TICKETS: Theatre Royal Box Office: 01603 630000 In person: Visit the Ice Rink Ticket Desk in The Forum (no telephone bookings) 9.30am – 8pm or click here.
• Open daily except Christmas Day (closed) and Boxing Day/New Year’s Day (11am – 5pm)
• 24 HOUR INFORMATION LINE 01603 727905

50 CHRISTMAS TREES IN A CHURCH 30/11/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 

  Dickleburgh Church Christmas Trees

  Dickleburgh Church, The Street, Dickleburgh IP214NQ

• 01379 854245
• Open 10am to 7pm daily (closes 5pm on Sunday 7 December).
• 50 Christmas Trees in a Church features up to 60 individually decorated trees created by local organisations. The event has a competitive edge, as each organisation has the chance to win cash prizes in the public vote.
• Admission: adults £3.50, senior citizens and concessions £3, pre-booked groups £2.75, children free. All money raised will be shared between the East Anglian Children’s Hospice (EACH), The Matthew Trust in Norwich, which assists the homeless.
• For group bookings, further information and to enter a Christmas Tree in the competition, tel. 01379 854245, email Norman & Rosemary Steer at norman@nandrsteer.com.

SANTA SPECIALS

• From Dereham & Wymondham stations, Mid-Norfolk Railway
• 01362 851723
• Click here for more information.

NORWICHRISTMAS 03/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• Stalls offering Norfolk crafts, Celtic and amber jewellery, hand made soaps, stained glass, German Christmas decorations, textiles…
• Norwich

CHRISTMAS AT STRANGERS’ HALL 03/12/2008 – 20/12/2008

• 10.30am – 4.30pm: Charing Cross, Norwich NR2 4AL
• Event date(s)
  Wed 03rd Dec 2008
  Sat 06th Dec 2008
  Wed 10th Dec 2008
  Sat 13th Dec 2008
  Wed 17th Dec 2008
  Sat 20th Dec 2008
• See this wonderful historic house traditionally decorated with greenery for the festive season. Take a tour with a costumed character from Tudor times (Wednesdays) and meet Victorian Father Christmas* (Saturdays). Make Christmas crackers and cards. And on Saturday 20 December hear Tudor music from the Minstrels Gallery.
• Adult £3.20, Conc. £2.65, Young People (4 – 16) £1.75. * Extra charge to meet Father Christmas.
• Click here for more information.

DICKENSIAN EVENING 04/12/2008

• Stalls, fair, street entertainment, Christmas lights switch on in Wymondham
• 01953 601271

MEDIEVAL CHRISTMAS MARKET – DRAGON HALL 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• Dragon Hall, 115-123, King Street, Norwich NR1 1QE
• This spectacular, seasonal medieval market will bring a wonderful and eclectic variety of traders to Dragon Hall.
• Dragon Hall is in King Street, just a short walk from the city centre. The Christmas Market will be open from 10am-5pm on both the Saturday and Sunday. Admission will cost £2.50 for adults, £2 concessions, £1 children and under 5s free.
• 01603 663922

CHRISTMAS TASTINGS DAY 06/12/2008

• Nortons Farm Shop, Beck Farm, Off Pound Hill, Frettenham, Norfolk NR12 7NF
• 01603891692
• Christmas Tastings Day at Nortons Farm Shop – Need some inspiration for the festive season ahead? We have a wide range of delicious food and drink available to make this Christmas a special one, plus beautiful gifts and cards, all made locally. Come and join us for free samples, plus hot chocolate and mince pies… Saturday 6 December 11-3pm.
• Free entry.
• Click here for more info.

RAPUNZEL AND THE TOWER OF DOOM 08/12/2008 – 09/12/2008

• 1.30pm: Theatre Widdershins: Norwich Puppet Theatre, St James, Whitefriars, Norwich, Norfolk NR3 1TN
• 01603 629921
• Theatre of Widdershins have taken this traditional tale right back to its roots, teased out the tangles and styled it into a beautifully coiffured hair piece! This enchanting show promises plenty of body, volume and loads of highlights.
• Tickets £3 per person – 1 free adult per 10 children
• If you would like to make a booking then please call Ian Woods on 01603 615564 or email tickets@puppettheatre.co.uk giving your preferred performance date and time.
• For ages 3+
• Click here for more information.

EARSHAM HALL CHRISTMAS OPEN EVENING AND FOOD & CRAFT FAIR 10/12/2008

• 6pm – 9pm: Earsham Hall, Earsham, Near Bungay, Suffolk
• 01986 893868
• Held in our lovely 18th Century Courtyard at Earsham Hall, we hope you can join us for one or both of the intimate Christmas Markets. We will have a wonderful array of stalls selling food and crafts and lots of gifts.
• **ENJOY A FREE GLASS OF MULLED WINE & MINCE PIE ON ARRIVAL IN THE SHOWROOM**
• Click here for more information.

HISTORIC CHRISTMAS FAYRE – NORWICH CATHEDRAL 12/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• Everything from Roman mosaics to rope, frankincense to fudge, pottery to pewter – and with mulled wine, hog roast and other culinary delights also available. Minstrels and entertainers from across the 2 millennia will be performing and demonstrating a fabulous selection of instruments and tunes, as well as dances and tales from the past. The Guild of Historical Interpreters will have costumed characters selling holy relics and interesting potions and there will be many other historical characters.
• On Saturday evening there will be a concert in the Cathedral, featuring the glamorous Mediaeval Baebes.
• Opening times for the Fayre are
  Friday 12th 10.00am – 6.00pm
  Saturday 13th 10.00am – 5.00pm
  Sunday 14th 12.00noon – 5.00pm
• There will be a small admission charge of £2.50 per adult; children under 16 are free.
• Click here for more details (PDF).

WOMBATWOMBAT’S 8TH BIRTHDAY & CHRISTMAS PARTY 12/12/2008

• St. Benedicts Street, Norwich NR2 4PG
• 01603 660352
• Featuring The Kabeedies + Popular Workshop + Kids Love Lies + Ducky Vodka. Compered by Yanny Mac and Pikey Paddy. Free festive food and entry to prize draw for first 100 partygoers. Howlback Hum in the café bar.
• 8PM : ALL TICKETS £7.00 : LATE BAR
• Click here for more information.

HISTORIC CHRISTMAS FAYRE 12/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• Norwich Cathedral

FATHER CHRISTMAS IN HIS MAGICAL WOODLAND GROTTO AT FAIRHAVEN 14/12/2008

• The Fairhaven Garden Trust, School Road, South Walsham, Norwich, NR13 6DZ
• 01603 270449/270683
• Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden, South Walsham, Sunday, December 14, 4pm to 6pm, Father Christmas in his magical woodland grotto with seasonal music from Norfolk Reed Clarinet Quartet, carol singing and a visit from Father Christmas’ reindeer, admission adult and children £4.25 (includes gift for every child)
• Click here for more information.

BRITTEN SINFONIA: HANDEL’S MESSIAH 14/12/2008

• 7.30 pm: Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich
• 01603 630000
• Come along and enjoy classical music at its best!
• £6.00 – £35.00
• Click here for more information.

SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS 16/12/2008 – 18/01/2009

• Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich NR2 1RL
• 01603 630000
• East Anglia’s Biggest and Best Traditional family Pantomime.
• Caitlin Stasey (Neighbours) as Snow White
  Liza Goddard as Fairy Snowdrop
  Richard Gauntlett as Nurse Nellie
  Nick Aldis (TV’s The Big O) as Igor
  David Hulston as The Prince
  and a special ‘virtual’ appearance from Stephen Fry as The Magic Mirror
  Signed performances on Saturday 17th January @ 2.30pm & 7.30pm. Signer Jim Dunne.
• Click here for more information.

HEARTS AND VOICES CHRISTMAS CONCERT 16/12/2008

• 7.30pm: Dragon Hall, 115-123 King Street, Norwich, NR1 1QE
• 01603 663922
• A welcome return to Dragon Hall for this outstanding community choir. The evening’s repertoire will include Christmas and seasonal songs as well as popular classics. Mulled wine and mince pies available.
• Tickets: £7 (£5 members of the Norfolk and Norwich Heritage Trust).
• Click here for Dragon Hall events page.

ICE SCULPTURE TRAIL 21/12/2008

• Norwich, various locations
• 01603 212136
• Sunday, December 21 between 9.30am and 5pm walk around this beautiful and magical trail of life size hand carved ice sculptures.
• Click here for more info.

CHRISTMAS CHARACTER PUPPET MAKING WORKSHOP 23/12/2008

• 10:30: Norwich Puppet Theatre, St James, Whitefriars, Norwich, Norfolk NR3 1TN
• 01603 629921
• Not quite the night before Christmas, so still plenty of time to make a Christmas character puppet. At this Christmas themed workshop you will be making a glove puppet with legs, creating a character of your choice. Be it Santa, an elf, a reindeer, fairy or snowflake. All materials provided for this 1½ hour session.
• Tickets available online via UEASU : http://www.ueaticketbookings.co.uk/events/Default.aspx?v=31
• For ages : 5+

CAROL SINGERS AND WINTER BBQ ON THE RIVERSIDE 24/12/2008

• 7pm – midnight: Premier Inn Norwich Nelson, Prince of Wales Road, Norwich NR1 1DX
• The Norwich Nelson is offering you something different this Christmas Eve – enjoy snug corners, comfy lounging by log fires and listen to the carol singers before venturing out to the winter BBQ on the Riverside for some warming treats.
• Tickets £5, available from Hayley Fuller, 0870 850 6346 or available on the door.

Contents (click to go to the relevant section):

Church Services

Christmas Activities

Christmas Shows

Church Services

‘MASS IN B MINOR‘ 06/12/2008

• 7.30pm (Doors 6.45pm): Sunderland Minster, High Street West, Sunderland SR1 3ET
• Tickets £10.00/£8.00 and £5.00
• Tel: 0191 565 4066
• Bishopwearmouth Choral Society & Conductor David Murray present J S Bach’s Mass in B Minor. Tickets are available from Sunderland Minster Office, High Street West, Sunderland, SR1 3ET
• Click here for church details (Minster website still under construction).

CHRISTMAS REJOICINGS 08/12/2008

• 7pm: St Cuthbert’s Church, Red House, Sunderland
• FREE
• Tel: 0191 553 2000
• St Cuthbert’s Church presents Christmas Rejoicings – Music for Christmas featuring:
• * Bishop Harland C.E. School Choir
  * Sunderland Citadel Band
  * Puppeteers
  * St Cuthbert’s Ladies

CHRISTMAS CONCERT 13/12/2008

• 7pm: St Chad’s Church, East Herrington, Sunderland SR3 3PG
• Tickets £5.00
• Tel: 0191 534 3032
• Music Makers Ladies Choir present a Christmas Concert in aid of Motor Neurone Disease Association. Guest Soloist: Robert Seaton

CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT 14/12/2008

• 3pm: Stockton Road United Reformed Church, West Park Centre, Stockton Road, Sunderland
• FREE – donations welcome
• Tel: 0191 567 4891
• Join Stockton Road United Reformed Church for their 10th Annual Christmas Carol Concert, led by Sunderland Monkwearmouth Salvation Army Band. A programme of well-known carols, readings and Christmas music. Mince Pies, coffee and tea.

CHRISTMAS THEATRE ORGAN CONCERT 14/12/2008

• 2.30pm: Ryhope Community Centre
• £3:50
• Tel: 0191 522 6751
• Richard Hills plays the ex Sunderland Odeon Mighty Compton Theatre Organ in our grand Christmas concert. Admission includes Tea/Coffee.
• Click here for more info.

Christmas Activities

OUTDOOR WINTER ICE RINK 20/11/2008 – 04/01/2009

• Mowbray Park, Sunderland
• (Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day)
• Monday to Friday 11am – 8pm
  Saturday & Sunday 10am – 6pm
• Admission: Adults £5.50, Children and Concessions £4.50 Family ticket £17, discounts for groups 10+ Contact: 0191 553 2000
• Back in Mowbray Park by popular demand and this time bigger and better than ever before, the real-ice winter ice rink is a great fun activity to share with family or friends. On Saturday afternoons and Thursday evenings enjoy a skate with the family to live music from the bandstand. Packages for schools are available on request, telephone 0191 514 1235 for details.
• Click here for more information.

CAROUSEL & GLUHWEIN 20/11/2008 – 21/12/2008

• Market Square, Sunderland
• Open at the same times as The Bridges – see ‘Christmas Shopping’
• Take a trip to Market Square for traditional treats including candied nuts, sweet treats, mulled wine and Bratwurst in the festive food court and take a twirl on the Victorian carousel – large enough for grown-ups to enjoy too! Live entertainment on Thursday evenings and Saturday & Sunday afternoons.
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

• Bridges Shopping Centre, Sunderland
• Every Thursday from 20th November
• 9am – 8pm every Thursday from 20th November.
• 9am – 8pm Monday to Friday from 8th – 23rd December
• 9am – 5.30pm Christmas Eve and Boxing Day
• Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
• Sunderland has all you need for your Christmas shopping, from top high-street names to designer boutiques, as well as safe city-centre car parks, great public transport and plenty of cafes and bars where you can have a well-deserved rest!
• Click here for more information.

FESTIVE CRAFT ACTIVITIES 20/11/2008 – 18/12/2008

• 5pm until 7.30pm: City Library & Arts Centre
• every Thursday evening from 20th November – 18th December
• FREE
• Discover the festive activities at the city’s main library. Children can see visit Santa in his grotto, then get involved in Christmas crafts and be entertained by storytellers and magicians; whilst adults can make the most of the library being open late to browse for books or shop on-line.
• Click here for more information.

SANTA’S GROTTO 26/11/2008 – 22/12/2008

• City Library and Arts Centre, Fawcett Street, Sunderland SR1 1RE
• Tel: 0191 514 1235
• FREE
• Santa Claus will be in residence in his Grotto on the ground floor every Thursday evening between 5.30pm – 7.30pm. Children can write to him with their Christmas list and can post it in a special Santa letter box. Santa can also be visited on Saturday’s between 10.30am – 11.30am and 2.30pm – 3.30pm. Letters to Santa can be posted any time during normal library opening times and all children will receive a reply.
• Click here for more information.

RIDE THE NORTH POLE EXPRESS 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008 & 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• 9.30am – Close: Bowes Railway, Springwell Village, Gateshead NE9 7QJ
• Tickets Cost £8
• Tel: 0191 416 1847
• The North Pole Express will be leaving from Bowes Railway in Springwell destined for Santa’s Grotto on the 6th, 7th, 13th and 14th of December. There’s a steam train ride, a present for the children, Christmas entertainment and Christmas fayre.
• You can call into Bowes Railway to pick up your tickets, or call them on 0191 4161847.
• Click here for Bowes Railway website.

THE NORTH POLE EXPRESS 06/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• Bowes Railway, Springwell
• Saturday and Sunday 6th, 7th, 13th & 14th December
• Admission: £8
• Booking is essential, please contact: 0191 416 1847
• For a real Christmas treat meet Santa Claus and take the North Pole Express, a magical steam train ride.
• Click here for more information.

SANTA’S COFFEE MORNING 06/12/2008

• 10am: Burn Park Methodist Church, Durham Road, Sunderland
• Tel: 0191 514 0747
• See Santa arrive on his Fire Engine and visit him in his grotto. There will also be coffee and mince pies a cake stall and lots of other stalls.

ST PETER’S CHRISTMAS FAYRE 06/12/2008

• 2pm – 4pm: St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Way, Sunderland SR6 0DY
• Tel: 0191 516 0135
• Everyone is warmly invited to St Peter’s Christmas Fayre. Refreshments, Raffle, Tombola, Stalls and Santa!

SANTA’S GROTTO 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008 & 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008 & 20/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• 11am – 12noon & 1pm – 2pm: Wildfowl Wetlands Trust, Washington Wetlands Centre, Pattinson, Washington NE38 8LE
• £7
• Tel: 0191 416 5454 Email: info.washington@wwt.org.uk
• Enjoy a magical winter walk, see Santa Claus in his grotto and receive a special festive gift. Price includes entry to the Centre and grounds.
• Tickets cost £7 per child, one adult goes free per child.
• Click here for more info.

SANTA RUN 07/12/2008

• 10am: Mowbray Park, Sunderland
• Registration Adults £10 Children & Concessions £7
• Tel: 0845 859 1046 Email: events@cftrust.org.uk

A festive, family fun, Santa Run to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis research. A 2k run round Mowbray Park, Sunderland. All registered runners get a Santa suit, and further prizes are available for best dressed runner, children and pets!! All runners need to pledge £30 sponsorship.

• For further details contact Pat Kilpatrick local Fundraising Manager on 0845 859 1046.

DICKENSIAN SUNDAY 07/12/2008

• 

  Dickensian Sunday

  2pm – 4pm: Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, Burdon Road, Sunderland SR1 1PP

• FREE
• Tel: 0191 553 2323
• Have your family photo taken in a Victorian costume, make a traditional Christmas card and listen to seasonal Dickens tales.
• Click here for more info.

MEET SANTA AT FULWELL WINDMILL 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• Newcastle Road, Fulwell
• FREE
• Meet Santa when he opens up his workshop. This is an event for all the family, with music and craft activities. Children can post their Christmas wish lists and all will receive a certificate. Please be prepared to wait.
• Click here for more information.

SANTA SATURDAY 06/12/2008

• 10.30am – 12noon: Monkwearmouth Station Museum
• FREE
• Meet Santa and take part in Christmas crafts.
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR 06/12/2008

• 10am – 4pm: Arts Centre, Washington
• FREE
• The perfect place to find unique Christmas presents, decorations and treats.
• Click here for more information.

FESTIVE FOOTBALL FUN 13/12/2008

• 1pm – 3pm: Monkwearmouth Station Museum, North Bridge Street, Sunderland SR5 1AP
• FREE
• Tel: 0191 567 7075
• Help to make a seasonal football frieze and have your face painted for the Sunderland vs Aston Villa match.
• Click here for more information.

SANTA AT FULWELL WINDMILL 13/12/2008 – 14/12/2008

• 12pm – 3.30pm: Fulwell Windmill, Newcastle Road, Fulwell, Sunderland SR5 1EX
• FREE
• Tel: 0191 516 9790

Meet Santa when he opens up his workshop at this family event, with music and craft activities. Children can post their Christmas wish lists and all will receive a certificate. Also, why not pop along to the free craft activity at Fulwell Windmill on 18th February, 1-3pm?

VICTORIAN TREAT 13/12/2008

• 12noon – 3pm: Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, Burdon Road, Sunderland SR1 1PP
• FREE
• Tel: 0191 553 2323
• Listen to carols from East Herrington Primary school choir from 12noon – 1pm and make Victorian tree decorations with Krafty Kids from 1pm – 3pm.
• Click here for more information.

CHRISTMAS CREATIVE WORKSHOP 20/12/2008 – 23/12/2008

• 10.00am-11.30am: National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland SR6 0GL
• Stained Glass Window Christmas Cards (Glass Painting)
• £4.00
• Tel: 0191 515 5555
• Email: info@nationalglasscentre.com
• Click here for more info.

Christmas Shows

SUNDERLAND PIANOFORTE SOCIETY – AMANDINE SAVARY 02/12/2008

• 7.15pm: Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, Burdon Road, Sunderland SR1 1PP
• Admission: £10 and £3.00 for Students & Claimants.
• Tel: 0191 553 2323
• Web: www.twmuseums.org.uk/sunderland

Amandine Savary is one of the biggest young piano stars of France. She finished her piano studies at the Royal Academy whilst in France she won a number of prestigious prizes including the Grand Concours de Paris. She is an accomplished recital performer as well as concerto soloist. Members asked Amandine to return.

• Programme
  * J.S. Bach – Toccata No.4 BWV 912
  * Cesar Franck – Prelude, Chorale & Fugue
  * Dutilleux 3 Preludes
  * Schumann – Arabeske Op.18
  * Beethoven – Sonata Op 31-2 in D minor.
• Sponsored by the Philip & Dorothy Green Awards for Young Artists – through “Making Music”.
• Click here for more info.

CINDERELLA 04/12/2008 – 13/12/2008

• 7.30pm, Royalty Theatre, 25 The Royalty, off Chester Road, Sunderland SR2 7PP
• £7.50, £6.00 concessions available for full-time students and under 18 yr olds (No concessions for Senior Citizens)
• Tel: 0191 567 2669
• Web: www.royaltytheatre.co.uk

Join us at Hardruppe Manor for this sparkling version of the classic story. Can Cinders outwit her ugly sisters, Whitney and Britney and the not-so-private detectives, Gawd and Bennett to find true love with the dashing prince?

• Book in advance from Reynold’s Outdoor Centre, Derwent Street, City Centre. Tel: 0191 565 7945

ALADDIN 05/12/2008 – 04/01/2009

• Sunderland Empire
• Tickets: £7.50 – £21.50
• Aladdin, the most mystical pantomime of all, will fly in on a magic carpet to the Sunderland Empire, guaranteeing another spectacular extravaganza for all the family. Paul Michael Glaser, best known for his role as David Starsky in the cult 70’s TV show ‘Starsky and Hutch’ will star, joined by superstar singer and actress Sheila Ferguson, lead singer of the pop group ‘The Third Degrees’. North East actor Dale Meeks will be donning a host of fabulous frocks as Widow Twanky alongside local comedian Steve Walls who will play Wishee Washee.
• Click here for more information.

SANTA EXPRESS CHRISTMAS GROTTO 29/11/2008 – 24/12/2008

• The Centre, 24 Silbury Arcade, Central Milton Keynes MK9 3ES

Hop aboard the train for a ride through mesmerising woodland scenes, past a fairy pond, through a rocky tunnel and you’ll end up back at the station – Santa’s Grotto. Wander down the quaint cobblestone alleyway with magical shops, then stop and listen to the tales of the Storytelling Wizard and the Talking Tree. Then it’s time for a ride on a colourful carousel, whoosh down a helter skelter, and take a walk through a magic mirror doorway.

• Train ride £1.50, Santa grotto visit with train ride £7.50
• Click here to book your grotto tickets.

PETER PAN 05/12/2008 – 18/01/2009

• 

  Peter Pan at Milton Keynes

  Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Central Milton Keynes MK9 3NZ
  Box Office 0870 060 6652 (bkg fee)

• Tickets from £17
• The perfect adventure for kids and adults who never grew up! Henry Winkler, Andy Ford and Louisa Lytton (Eastenders, Strictly Come Dancing, and The Bill) star in Peter Pan. Starring alongside Henry will be the hilarious comedian Andy Ford (Royal Variety Performance) as Smee.
• Audio-Described Performances: Mon 5th Jan 1pm, Wed 14th Jan 7pm
• Signed Performance: Mon 12th Jan 6pm
• Touch Tours: Mon 5 Jan 11.30am, Mon 14 Jan 5.30pm
• Click here for more info & bookings.

COFFEE MORNING AND CHRISTMAS FAYRE 05/12/2008

• 10am: Church Hall, Church Green Road, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK3 6BJ
• Tel 01908 366531

St. Mary’s daytime group invites you to join them on Friday 5th December 10.00 to noon in the Church Hall. Cards, gifts and inspired creations – Come to browse, buy or just to chat over a coffee and a mince pie. All welcome including pre-school children.

• Click here for more info.

FATHER CHRISTMAS IN HIS GROTTO 06/12/2008 – 20/12/2008

• Father Christmas in his grotto, Old Gaol Museum, Buckingham.
• Saturday 6th December: 1.00pm – 3.30pm
  Saturday 13th December: 11.00am – 2.30pm
  Saturday 20th December: 11.00am – 2.30pm
• Contact: 01280 823020
• Click here for more details.

CLAYDON CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR 06/12/2008 – 07/12/2008

• 11am – 3pm: Claydon Christmas Craft Fair, Claydon House. 11am – 3pm.
• 01296 730349

WOLVERTON FARMERS’ MARKET 06/12/2008 – 20/12/2008

• 9am-1pm: Market Halls Car Park, Stratford Road
• Alissa Pemberton Tel: 07801 368027 E-mail: foodtrain@fsmail.net
• Click here for more info.

MAKE A WREATH 07/12/2008

• Make a Wreath, Stowe Landscape Gardens. 01280 822850

LETTER WRITING TO FATHER CHRISTMAS 06/12/2008 – 21/12/2008

• Every weekend from 6th to 21st December, letter writing to Father Christmas, Waddesdon Manor. 01296 653266

JINGLE JOG 07/12/2008

• 

  Jingle Jog

  10:45am: South Willen Lake

• BACK FOR A SECOND YEAR OF FESTIVE FUN the Milton Keynes Santa Jog is a fun way to get your hearts pumping on the lead up to Christmas. Participants can walk, jog or run the 4km course around Willen Lake, Milton Keynes whilst dressed in the free Santa suits the BHF will provide you with!
• Registration on the day opens at 10.00am
  Mass warm up @ 10.45am
  Mass Start @ 11.00
• Entry Fees
  Before the day = £10.00 per adult, £5.00 per child
  On the Day = £15.00 per adult, £5.00 per child
  These prices include a free Santa suits.
• Children under 14 will be encouraged to wear Christmas themed fancy dress to get into the festive spirit on the day and there will be a small prize for the best costume on the day.
• The route is suitable for prams/pushchairs and dogs.
• For more information contact the Events Office on 0800 389 9750, or by email, nthamesevents@bhf.org.uk.
• Click here for more info.

BUCKINGHAM CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL 13/12/2008

• 

  Buckingham Christmas Carnival

  10.45am, Chandos Road

• Click here for event page.

STOWE CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT & LANTERN WALK 14/12/2008

• 2.45pm – 5.30pm: Stowe Landscape Gardens, Buckingham, Buckinghamshire MK18 5DQ
• Christmas Carol Concert in partnership with Stowe House – concert held in Stowe School Chapel with a lantern walk accompanied by Father Christmas. Mince pies and mulled wine in the Marble Hall of Stowe House
• Booking essential: 01280 822850
• Pricing Adult £10 Child £5 Family £25
• Click here for more information.

LIGHT YOUR LANTERN 14/12/2008

• 12.00-2.00: Campbell Park Pavilion car park off Silbury Boulevard, Campbell Park, Milton Keynes
• Make a lantern to light up the night Make a lantern to light up the night and then join us at Linford Wood for traditional carols.
• £2.50/person
• Booking is required. 01908 255379
• Click here for more info.

CAROLS IN THE WOOD 14/12/2008

• Car park at Breckland, off H3 Monks Way.
• A magical evening of carol singing in the beautiful setting of Linford Wood. Warm up with some mulled wine and mince pies.
• 01908 255379
• Click here for more info.

ENGLISH SERENATA: WALKING IN THE AIR 14/12/2008

• 

  English Serenata: Walking in the Air

  7.30pm: Jim Marshall Auditorium, The Stables Theatre Ltd, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU

• Box Office – 01908 280800 Admin – 01908 280814 stables@stables.org
• With The English Serenata Youth Choir
• Prices from £19.50

A Christmas celebration in words and music that’s guaranteed to get the festive spirit flowing! Featuring Howard Blake’s The Snowman, narrated by RSC actor Jeffery Dench, along with favourite carols such as Noel, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O Little Town, Sheep May Safely Graze, Ave Maria and Joy To The World, with spoken word taken from Dickens, Betjeman and Dylan Thomas. A real Christmas treat to captivate and entrance you!

• Click here for more info & bookings.

KOSHKA: RUSSIAN WINTER & GYPSY FIRE 16/12/2008

• 8pm: Jim Marshall Auditorium, The Stables Theatre Ltd, Stockwell Lane, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU
• Box Office – 01908 280800 Admin – 01908 280814 stables@stables.org
• Price: £13.50

Vibrant, enthralling Gypsy music – played with outrageous bravura – is interspersed with Russian tales and anecdotes giving an insight into the traditions of Christmas in a culture very different to our own. Koshka are Russian fiddlers Oleg Pomonarev (formerly of Loyko) and Lev Atlas (principal viola with Scottish Opera and a charismatic raconteur) alongside Nigel Clark, one of the UK’s most technically gifted acoustic guitarists.

• Book in advance through the Box Office to reserve your table.
• Click here for more info.

LOCAL FARMERS’ MARKET BEFORE CHRISTMAS 19/12/2008

• 09.30am- 2.30pm: The Theatre District Central Milton Keynes
• Leigh White Tel:07841 612469 E-mail blueberrycountry@aol.com
• Click here for more info.

WREATH WASSAIL 21/12/2008

• 12 – 3pm: Campbell Park Pavilion, car park off Silbury Boulevard.
• Get in the Xmas spirit before carols by the lake -collect goodies to come back and make a wreath. £2.50/person.
• Booking is required. 01908 255379
• Click here for more info.

CAROLS BY THE LAKE 21/12/2008

• 4.00-5.30: Park at the Peace Pagoda car park, V10, Brickhill Street, North Willen Lake, Milton Keynes
• Enjoy a tranquil walk around the North Lake and support Willen Hospice singing carols around the Christmas tree.
• Click here for more info.