Essex is brimming with festive magic this month, offering a mix of family-friendly theatre, unforgettable concerts, and unique holiday markets. From the hilarity of Pinocchio at Stratford East to the serene beauty of the Medieval Baebes at Chelmsford Cathedral, there’s something to enchant everyone. Whether you’re seeking holiday inspiration, heartwarming performances, or eco-conscious shopping, Essex has it all.
Absolutely’s curated guide highlights the region’s most exciting events, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and vibrant holiday spirit. Trust our expert picks to help you plan a December filled with creativity, and celebration.
Top Things to Do in Essex this December
COMEDY
Live at Christmas with Sara Pascoe
Dates: 6 December
Venue: Charter Hall
The country’s best comedians are coming to Colchester Charter Hall for a spectacular all-star festive show. Catch a huge show headlined by the multi-award winning Sara Pascoe, star of Live at The Apollo, Qi, 8 Out of 10 Cats & many more. Joining Sara is a spectacular line-up with Taskmaster icon and Would I Lie To You star Mike Wozniak, viral phenomenon Janine Harouni, Mock The Week’s whipsmart wizard Rhys James, and the impeccable Jen Brister as host.
EVENT
Medieval Baebes
Dates: 9 December
Venue: Chelmsford Cathedral
Let the Medieval Baebes immerse you in glorious merriment at Chelmsford Cathedral on Monday 9th December. Celebrating the festive season, ‘The Ceremony’ concert brings a remarkable evening of joyous music, dance and theatre. Experience harmonious vocals accompanied by exotic and period instruments, as carols, traditional folksongs and innovative settings of ancient romantic poetry are revealed in beguiling choral music.
Book your tickets at Medieval Baebes
Sustainable Christmas Market
Dates: 15 December
Events: Runnymede Hall, Benfleet
Over 30 handpicked local makers will be selling a beautiful selection of products including jewellery, clothing, candles, gifts, sweet treats, and more. No single-use plastic packaging and a conscious approach to sourcing, materials and ingredients are on the menu. All stalls are indoors and there will be a seated area where you can enjoy mulled wine, hot chocolate, tea, coffee, and most importantly mince pies.
FILM
Christmas at the Movies
Dates: 28 December
Events: Chelmsford Cathedral
Get ready to unwrap the ultimate holiday treat with Chelmsford Cathedral’s Christmas Movies Concert. Join them as they embark on a jolly journey through the heart-warming and hilarious worlds of beloved Christmas films. It’s a festive celebration that will fill your spirit with joy and bring back memories of cosy nights by the fire, with music covering Love Actually, Home Alone, Elf, It’s a Wonderful Life and more.
View tickets at Chelmsford Cathedral
THEATRE
Pinocchio
Dates: Until 4 January 2025
Venue: Stratford East
Stratford East pantos are famous for tearing up the rulebook and telling classic stories with a special twist. This year is no different: Pinocchio will feature Stratford East’s signature blend of show-stopping original music, side-splitting comedy and enchanting sets and costumes that will transport audiences into a world of magic and wonder.
A Christmas Carol
Dates: 11 December
Venue: Castle Hedingham
It’s Christmas Eve and tight-fisted Ebenezer Scrooge is meaner than ever. He is shunning his only living relative, underpaying his clerk and refusing to acknowledge the plight of the poor… but will timely visits from the Ghosts of Christmases Past, Present and Future change his miserly ways before it’s too late? Performed by a multi-talented cast in The Pantaloons’ own inimitable, hilarious and moving style this show features live music, audience interaction and absolutely no humbug (there may be some humbug).
Book tickets at Castle Hedingham
The Night Before Christmas
Dates: 14 December
Venue: Brentwood Theatre
‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring… except for a child sneaking out of her bedroom to try and catch a glimpse of Santa! Little does she know the adventure that’s in store when she encounters Humbug, the friendly mouse of the house, and when Santa gets stuck in the chimney they’ll need to work together, with the help of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Rudolph, to save Christmas for everyone. Adapted from the poem The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore.
Get your tickets at Brentwood Theatre
Elf – The Musical
Dates: Until 14 December
Venue: Charter Hall
The X-Factor star Jake Quickenden will be stepping into the shoes of Buddy the Elf in the forthcoming production of Elf – The Musical, the festive blockbuster from Stage Right Entertainment coming to Charter Hall for a 36-show run from 14 December 2024. Originally from Scunthorpe, Jake now lives close to Colchester in Boxted with his wife and children. Here’s what he had to say about taking on the role of Buddy.
Jake Quickenden on Playing Buddy the Elf in Elf – The Musical
There’s a huge amount of excitement to see you starring on stage as Buddy – what most appealed to you about accepting the role?
Buddy is an iconic role and I needed no persuasion to take the role. Plus I am often working away at Christmas and it’s rare to get the chance to play to my home audience.
Elf’s story takes him through many highs and lows – what have been the peaks and troughs in your working life?
Buddy’s story is so relatable. We all go through the highs and lows of life and in the entertainment industry you have to learn to accept the lows are part of your career. However, the highs make it all worthwhile. X Factor was a massive high and so was I’m a Celebrity Get me Out of Here. I have been very lucky and have worked on some amazing Shows.
Everyone loves the character Buddy for his sunny outlook on life – are you someone who looks for life’s positives?
I like to think I am a positive person. I love Buddy’s outlook on life and I’m looking forward to getting to know Buddy even more as I play him.
Has Christmas changed for you since becoming a dad, and how do you plan to celebrate this year?
Christmas for me has always been about family even more so since becoming a dad. I love Christmas and my son makes it even more special.
Do you enjoy popping into Colchester and what are your favourite things to do in the city?
Colchester is a great place to live. I love the city centre as there’s always so much to do. Colchester during the summer months is incredible with all the coffee shops and Castle Park.
Finally, we can’t go without asking a question on behalf of Buddy: what’s your favourite colour?
Blue.
