Yorkshire comes alive this month with festive cheer, captivating art, and unforgettable performances. From the charm of Malton’s Christmas Festival to the magic of Alice’s Wonderland at Castle Howard, there’s something special waiting for everyone. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic escape, or simply looking to soak up the season, Yorkshire’s got you covered.
Absolutely’s carefully curated guide highlights the very best events, blending the region’s rich culture, creativity, and festive spirit. Dive in and let our trusted picks help you make the most of this magical time of year.
Top Things to Do in Yorkshire this December
EVENT
Malton Christmas Festival

Dates: 7-8 December
Venue: Malton
The Christmas Festival is Malton’s shopping event of the year. Visitors can expect a fabulous weekend of festive fun and family entertainment in and around Malton’s charming Market Place. On offer will be delicious food and festive gifts – you’ll have your Christmas list checked off in no time!
Wild Yuletide

Dates: Until 5 January 2025
Venue: Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Wild Yuletide celebrates creativity, art and the great outdoors, and will provide seasonal cheer and treats throughout the Christmas season. Activities include creative making workshops, festive dining and a stunning, uplifting immersive exhibition in the historic Chapel. Starting at the main YSP Centre, visitors will be welcomed by a display of decorations, including trees with adornments, lights and lanterns, generating a warm winter feel.
Book at Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Alice’s Christmas Wonderland

Dates: Until 5 January
Venue: Castle Howard
Alice is planning a huge Christmas party, and she invites you to follow the White Rabbit through Castle Howard’s grand halls and regal rooms with each twist and turn revealing fanciful festive surprises. Complete your experience with an elegant Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea, select special mementos from the Bauble Emporium, toast giant marshmallow by the Christmas Tree, and stock up on delicious seasonal essentials from the Farm Shop and Garden Centre.
ART
Forbidden Territories

Dates: 23 November-27 April 2025
Venue: The Hepworth Wakefield
Forbidden Territories: 100 Years of Surreal Landscapes marks 100 years since Surrealism began with the publication of André Breton’s ‘Manifesto of Surrealism’ in 1924. Taking its title from Breton’s description of the Surrealist project as “the perpetual excursion into the midst of forbidden territories”, this will be the first UK survey to explore the role of landscape in one of the most influential artistic, intellectual and literary movements of the 20th century.
Book your tickets at The Hepworth Wakefield
THEATRE
Little Shop Of Horrors
Dates: 7 December-18 January
Venue: The Crucible
Little Shop Of Horrors will be the Christmas musical at the Crucible this year. The killer rock musical will be directed by Amy Hodge (Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World). When flower shop assistant Seymour acquires a mysterious new plant, he names it ‘Audrey II’ after his crush and co-worker. As the succulent grows and grows, it offers Seymour the kind of success he could only ever dream of… as long as he keeps feeding it.
Get your tickets Sheffield Theatres
A Christmas Carol

Dates: 17 December-4 January
Venue: Leeds Grand Theatre
One magical night. Three mysterious ghosts. The spirit of the season is overflowing in Northern Ballet’s A Christmas Carol. As the clock strikes midnight join Ebenezer Scrooge on the journey of a lifetime to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Travel with the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future through family firesides, cold winter nights and the promise of a brighter future. A festive feast for the senses, Northern Ballet brings one of the most loved stories of all time to life.
Elf The Musical

Dates: 23-24 December
Venue: First direct arena, Leeds
The arena spectacular version of ‘Elf The Musical’ features Santa’s magical flying sleigh, an audience snowball fight, and a giant candy cane journey from the North Pole, amongst many spectacular scenes all set against amazing video-film backdrops on a large LED screen. With a large cast the winter spectacular, which wowed Leeds’ audiences last year, will star one of the UK’s most exciting rising comedy talents, Jordan Conway, who will step into the big floppy shoes of Will Ferrell.
Get tickets at Elf the Musical UK
FAMILY
Festive Events

Dates: Throughout December
Venue: Keighley & Worth Valley Railway
This festive season, the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, world-renowned as the setting for the timeless film classic The Railway Children invites families to celebrate the magic of Christmas in style. Located in the heart of West Yorkshire, this historic five-mile heritage railway offers a captivating blend of stunning scenery, charming stations, and rich history, making it the perfect destination for a festive day out.