Hertfordshire is certainly not in short supply of the Christmas spirit, as Visit Herts point out
Hertfordshire is the perfect destination to soak in the festive spirit this holiday season. From enchanting light trails to magical performances and delicious dining, the county offers a host of unforgettable Christmas experiences for all ages.
At Absolutely Magazines, we’ve expertly selected this list of the 10 best Christmas events in Hertfordshire for 2024, ensuring that every one of our picks delivers the best day out.
Whether you’re seeking cosy afternoon teas, romantic evenings, or festive feasts, our expert picks guarantee a season to remember.
Top Christmas 2024 Fairs and Festive Events in Hertfordshire
Tis the season to… wrap up warm, grab the cameras, and head on out to enjoy Hertfordshire’s festivities. From wizarding winter wonderlands to delicious dining, here are days out in the county that’ll make this month one to remember.
Ashridge House Illuminated
Hertfordshire’s biggest Christmas lights trail returns this year, adorning Ashridge House with over 20 breathtaking displays to kick off your season in style. Wander the grounds of this Grade II listed building in the county’s countryside, aglow with thousands of twinkling lights that will make your Instagram feed shine. With experiences for everyone in the family (including the pups!), we can’t think of a better way to get into the festive spirit.
A Christmas Carol at Knebworth House
Immerse yourself in one the most celebrated tales from Charles Dickens as the Living Theatre brings to life the story of ‘A Christmas Carol’ this year at Knebworth House. Told in the Banqueting Hall, where Dickens himself once performed, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the season the moment you step through the door. Settle in with a glass of mulled wine and behold the tale as it unfolds right before your eyes, bringing you the laughter, lows, and love of this iconic story.
Hogwarts in the Snow
Enchanting, inspiring, and magical – 2024’s festivities have begun, so we’re turning to one of our favourite Hertfordshire spots for a day out to celebrate. At Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, the wonderful Hogwarts in the Snow is in full swing. Witness the wintry takeover in those well-known locations from the movies, wandering the Great Hall, learning steps for the Yule Ball, taking in the wonders of the Great Hall’s banquet, and much more. With so much to discover, book in this month and give the gift of a lifetime.
Afternoon Tea at Pendley Manor
You can never go wrong with an Afternoon Tea – fresh scones, fruity jams, warming cups of tea… our mouths are watering at just the thought! Add in a glass of mulled wine, some joyful jingles, and a hearty dose of baubles and wreaths, and you’ve got yourself an unmissable Festive Afternoon Tea. Lucky for us, all of this and more can be found at Pendley Manor, where sweet treats and a warm welcome await.
Seasonal celebrations at St Albans Cathedral
St Albans Cathedral is the place to be this Christmas season, with a fantastic line-up of concerts, events and film screenings to get you in the spirit. Highlights include the serene Christmas By Candlelight, the wonderful Carol Concert by The Hospice of St Francis, and luxury wreath making workshops. Be sure to check out the full schedule of events happening throughout December as they begin their countdown to the big day.
Aladdin flies in
This Christmas, join Watford Palace Theatre for a magical ride with Aladdin, running until the end of December. Get ready for a festive adventure filled with big songs, laugh-out-loud gags, and all the classic panto fun. Perfect for all ages, this show is packed with holiday cheer. Plus, don’t miss the special Audio Described and Captioned performances on Sunday 29th December. Gather the family and let the magic begin.
The Natural History Museum’s Festive Trail
Throughout the month of December, the Natural History Museum in Tring will top our list of perfect, local days out for the family. For just £1 per trail, you can give the kids an experience to remember as they help Father Christmas find his reindeer. Grab a map, look for clues, and explore the galleries to save the day and round them up. Join in on the fun, head along to the museum, and we’ll see you there.
Frogmore Paper Mill’s Santa Storyboat
And for even more magical trails, let’s take to the waters with Frogmore Paper Mill’s Santa Storyboat. Step aboard and prepare for a jolly good journey, filled with storytelling, wildlife spotting, and even a special visit from Santa Claus himself. Trust us, the little ones will love their day on the Grand Union Canal, topped off with a special goodie bag for every passenger.
Tuck in at Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen
It wouldn’t be the end of the year if not for the food, so we have a feeling you’ll want to add Lussmanns to your December bucket list. Dotted across the county at five fantastic restaurants in Hertfordshire, you’re never too far from delicious local dining, with sustainability at its core. Whether you’re rekindling the romance with that special someone, tucking in with the family, or planning a work do, their menu is sure to please everyone in the group. Thyme roasted beetroot, Jerusalem artichoke fricassee, winter berry cheesecake? Say no more…
Extravaganzas at The Grove
For all of your festive period needs, a visit to The Grove is a must. As they welcome Jo Malone London, our beloved Hertfordshire countryside retreat is ready to offer some unmissable experiences. Immerse yourself in the season with their brilliant masterclasses, where you can try your hand at making cocktails, gingerbread houses, or baubles. It wouldn’t be Christmas without a visit from the man himself, so be sure to keep an eye out for when Santa will be arriving. And while you’re at it, make the most of this rural retreat, and make that festive day into an overnight stay.
See what’s happening around town with what’s on in Hertfordshire in December and make the most of the season.
