After years of exploring Buckinghamshire’s vibrant cultural landscape, we’ve uncovered the best ways to celebrate the festive season this December. From magical pantomimes and heartwarming music performances to unique Christmas markets and immersive events, this month promises something unforgettable for everyone.
Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, festive shopping opportunities, or simply a chance to soak up the holiday spirit, our curated guide combines local expertise and trusted recommendations to help you make the most of the season.
Dive in and discover the highlights that make Berkshire & Buckinghamshire shine during the most wonderful time of the year
Top Things to Do in Berkshire & Buckinghamshire
MUSIC
The Puppini Sisters
Dates: 4 December
Venue: Milton Keynes Stables
The Puppini Sisters are celebrating 20 years together in 2024. Founded in 2004 by Marcella Puppini, the band pioneered the neo burlesque/swing scene with their immaculate close harmonies and went on to worldwide success releasing six albums, the first of which became the fastest selling jazz album of all time. To mark this anniversary The Puppini Sisters will embark on a tour that looks back over their career by performing their hits, fan favourites and a few surprises.
PANTOMIME
Peter Pan
Dates: 6 December-5 January
Venue: MK Theatre
Milton Keynes Theatre announced earlier in the year that fab-u-lous TV judge and musical theatre star Craig Revel Horwood will lead this year’s panto as the dastardly Captain Hook. He is joined by comedian and ventriloquist Max Fulham as Smee and West End stars Ross Carpenter playing the title role of Peter Pan, Zara MacIntosh as Tink and Evelyn Hoskins as Wendy. In true Milton Keynes panto style, the show will be bursting with dazzling special effects, stunning costumes, and beautiful sets.
Get your tickets at ATG tickets
FILM
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Dates: 10th December
Venue: Oxford New Theatre
Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert Live to Film will feature a screening of the complete film with the musical score performed live to the film. The Muppets perform Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine). Gonzo, as Dickens, narrates the story with the help of Rizzo the Rat. The film also features Miss Piggy as Emily Cratchit, Fozzie Bear as Fozziwig, and Robin the Frog as Tiny Tim.
EVENT
Panto Express
Dates: Throughout December
For something a bit different this Christmas, try Panto Express at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre near Aylesbury. You enjoy a personal visit from Santa in your compartment on the steam train, with photo opportunities. Plus, you can enjoy a 25 minute pantomime (Jack and the Beanstalk) and then, once you’ve seen Santa, wander to the Railway Museum where visitors are ‘transported’ to Santa’s Workshop to meet Mrs Claus and the elves. Booking is essential and tickets are limited.
Get tickets at the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
Meet the Huskies
Dates: 14-15 December
Venue: Waddesdon Manor
Established in 2007, the Siberian Husky Welfare Association (UK) is a passionate non-profit organisation focused on rescuing and rehoming Siberian Huskies throughout the UK. Join them at Waddesdon’s Conservation Hub, where you’ll have the opportunity to spend time with these wonderful dogs, snap a few photos and maybe even leave with a little ‘Husky glitter’ as a memento.
A Christmas Wish
Dates: Until 6 January
Venue: Stowe Gardens
The giant twinkling Christmas tree in the New Inn courtyard is overseeing lots of comings at goings at Stowe’s Wish HQ this Christmas. See how wishes are sorted at Wish HQ Sorting Office then set off on a festive adventure around New Inn and the Gardens. There’s a wish walk, wish puzzles to solve, a ‘wish you were here’ selfie station and a ‘wish upon a star’ installation in the Temple of Venus.
View tickets at the National Trust
Christmas Lights, Camera, Action
Dates: Until 5 January
Venue: Basildon Park
It’s Lights, Camera, Action at Basildon Park as the property plays tribute to classic Christmas films in celebration of its 20 years as a film location. There’ll be more trees, more garlands and more twinkling fairy lights, plus each decorated room will give a nod to a different Christmas movie. Look out for the video village for a chance to get involved.
Book your tickets at the National Trust
The Old Amersham Christmas Festival
Dates: 6 December
Venue: Old Amersham Old Town
It’s that time again, the Old Amersham Christmas Festival is back! The new-look Christmas Festival in 2023 was a huge success and attracted over 5,000 visitors. This year’s Festival is set to be even bigger and brighter. Taking over the historic Old Town on Friday 6th December from 4-8pm, this magical late-night shopping extravaganza is the place to be.
Expect festive fun for all the family. Enjoy live music from the Amersham Band and the Barbershop Choir while shopping for Christmas gifts in the local shops and boutiques – most stores offering exclusive special offers for one-night-only. Browse the carefully curated collection of local traders in Cooper’s Market, all while indulging in mulled wine and delicious foodie treats from the local restaurants, cafes and pubs.
Twinkling Christmas lights are set to illuminate the town with the Christmas tree light switch-on at 6pm from a surprise local celebrity guest. No festive event would be complete without the most famous guest of all – little ones can meet Father Christmas and his ‘real life’ reindeers for a magical moment. A vintage fair with traditional ferris wheel, swing boats, go-carts and roaming stilt walkers add to the enchanting atmosphere. While face painting, Christmas-crafting, selfies with Rudolf and ‘pig-petting’ bring more family fun to the festivities.
Combine Christmas shopping with exploring the Old Town in all its festive glory, from the lights and fun entertainment, to the fabulous in-store offers, tasty foodie treats and artisan gifts from the Cooper’s Market stalls.
For more information, contact Diana Halley on [email protected] or call 07979 860457
