Whether you’re looking for fun by day or by night, there are plenty of Christmas events in Leeds for the whole family to enjoy – so we thought we’d compile a list of the best that the city has to offer this year so you can start planning your Christmas itinerary.
For starters, one of the most popular Christmas events in Leeds is the annual arrival of the traditional German market, or Christkindelmarkt to give it its official title. Located in Millennium Square, the market runs from the 14th of November to the 20th of December and is packed full of stalls selling gifts, delicacies and drinks, all with a German theme. From traditional stollen to warming mulled wine, the kids can take a ride on the carousel or attend one of the Sunday morning events, and the grown-ups can quaff German ale and party late into the evening.
Kids’ events this Christmas in Leeds
If you’re heading into town with the kids in tow, then why not explore the Magical Reindeer Trail? From the First Direct Arena to shopping centres like Trinity, see how many of the beautifully decorated reindeer you can spot – you can follow the official trail map or simply wander around and keep score of who spots each one first.
Another fantastic event for the kids (also at Trinity Centre) is the awesome Giant Snowglobe event, hosted by well known kids’ brand, Mamas & Papas. Head down to the city centre on the 6th of December and let the little ones play around in the fabulous snowglobe creations – you can even join in too! Take advantage of the official photo opportunities so you can feature in your own unique Christmas cards – a great gift for family and friends that will surely put a smile on their faces.
Theatre and music
No Christmas is complete without a visit to the panto, so book your tickets now for the Dick Whittington Rock ‘n’ Roll pantomime at the City Varieties. You can book your seats for performances from the 29th of November to the 11th of January – take the whole family for a super shared adventure.
The West Yorkshire Playhouse is also hosting a fantastic family-friendly event in Leeds this Christmas; Father Christmas by celebrated writer Raymond Briggs (of ‘The Snowman’ fame) features on the bill between November the 22nd and January the 3rd.
Other Christmas events in Leeds to note are the various stars playing at the Leeds First Direct Arena – choose from Christmas crooner Michael Bublé, Jeff Wayne’s wonder War of the Worlds, dance act Diversity, or old school rockers Status Quo. Visit the Arena’s website for more details.
If you’re planning a drink, then driving is definitely off the (Christmas) cards, but if you have the kids with you and you’re travelling by car to make things easier, then stick Trafalgar Street car park on your wish list. Perfectly situated for the First Direct Arena and the Playhouse, it’s a cheaper alternative to the city centre options available and is still close enough to the hub of the festive fun to make it ideal for any of the Christmas events that you choose to attend. From all of us here at Trafalgar Street car park in Leeds – have a very merry Christmas!!