Across the county of Cumbria, communities are preparing to celebrate Christmas 2024. We shake the snow globe and look at festive events, shopping and dining in our city, towns and villages
CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN CUMBRIA
SANTA EXPRESS
Dates until Mon Dec 23
Get on onboard the magical Santa Express where the elves are on hand at Ravenglass at the start of your festive adventure. The journey to Dalegarth is filled with excitement as you make your way up the valley to the Grotto where Santa Claus and his team of helpers will welcome you along with Stu Di Doo the magician and one of his festive puppets.
RAVENGLASS RAILWAY
ravenglass-railway.co.uk
WINTER AT SIZERGH
Sat Nov 23-Tue Dec 24
Highlights include immersive light and sound installations, creative crafting and seeing how the magnificent property brings Christmas to life through decoration and festive food, and shopping in the visitor centre.
SIZERGH
nationaltrust.org.uk
FATHER CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM
Sat Nov 30, Sun Dec 1, Sat Dec 7, Sun Dec 8
Father Christmas and his festive friends are visiting Walby Farm Park with all your favourites and a few surprises.
WALBY FARM PARK, CROSBY-ON-EDEN
walbyfarmpark.co.uk
GREAT BALDINI’S CHRISTMAS FAMILY MAGIC SHOW
Sat Dec 28 & Sun Dec 29
Telling the story of magical Christmases, from the first magic set to teaching Santa how to escape from chimneys. The show is packed with hilarious magic, puppetry, escapology and the hunt for naughty and nice children.
OLD LAUNDRY THEATRE, BOWNESS-ON-WINDERMERE
oldlaundrytheatre.co.uk
CHRISTMAS VARIETY SHOW
Sat Dec 14
The Workington Theatre Royal's Rising Stars Youth Theatre brings an evening of Christmas joy, songs, laughter and fun. The variety show will be completely chosen, scripted and performed by the ten to 18-year-olds. There will be songs, dances and scenes from your favourite Christmas stories as well as plenty of cheer to carry you into next year.
THEATRE ROYAL, WORKINGTON
theatre-royal-workington.co.uk
CHRISTMAS AT THE MUSEUM – SANTA'S GROTTO
Sat Dec 14 & Sun Dec 15
Is that the sound of sleigh bells? Mr and Mrs Claus have parked up on the Rotunda and, with the help of the resident Tullie elves, have a whole weekend of festive fun planned. Christmas at the Museum weekends are always super popular, so make sure to get a ticket to avoid missing out.
TULLIE, CARLISLE
tullie.org.uk
HOLKER’S CHRISTMAS GROTTO
Sat Dec 14 & Sun Dec 15, Sat Dec 21 & Sun Dec 22
Meet Father Christmas and the elves and discover the magic of Christmas. Receive a gift from Father Christmas by the roaring fire in the magical setting of Holker’s grand library. Take part in a range of activities and trails as you and your family create cherished memories together.
HOLKER HALL
holker.co.uk
CHRISTMAS AT MUNCASTER
Sat Dec 7 & Sun Dec 8, Sat Dec 14 & Sun Dec 15, Sat Dec 21, Sun Dec 22 &, Mon Dec 23
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a winter garden stroll and Christmas trail, perfect for all ages. Inside, the castle is beautifully adorned with elegant festive decorations and the sounds of traditional carols echo through the grand rooms. It’s the perfect festive day out to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.
MUNCASTER CASTLE
muncaster.co.uk
SILENT NIGHT: A FESTIVE EVENING WITH OWLS AT MUNCASTER
Sat Dec 14
Silent Night promises a truly unique experience as Muncaster’s owls take flight under the night sky, offering a glimpse into the secret lives of these magical birds.
MUNCASTER CASTLE
muncaster.co.uk
CHRISTMAS TEA PARTY
Sat Dec 14-Sun Dec 15
A special Father Christmas Tea Party in a winter wonderland with a showing of the classic animation The Snowman, a festive afternoon tea with crackers for everyone and a chance for every child to meet Father Christmas in his sleigh and receive a small gift. Includes entry to the World of Beatrix Potter Attraction (10am-4.30pm) on the day.
THE WORLD OF BEATRIX POTTER LAUNDRAMA, BOWNESS
hop-skip-jump.com
GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS
Sat Dec 21
Have a go at Georgian Christmas crafting including making pomanders and wreaths, read Dorothy Wordsworth's gingerbread recipe and decorate some gingerbread stars. Learn about what the Wordsworth family ate on Christmas Day, how they celebrated and dress up in Georgian costume. For families with children of all ages.
WORDSWORTH GRASMERE
CHRISTMAS MARKETS & FAIRS IN CUMBRIA
BEETHAM NURSERIES CHRISTMAS MARKET
Thu Dec 5-Sun Dec 8
The nurseries transform into a wonderfully festive Christmas market with chalets selling all types of gifts, live music, Christmas tree sales, family activities and festive workshops.
BEETHAM NURSERIES, MILNTHORPE
beethamnurseries.co.uk
EGREMONT FARMERS CRAFT AND FAIRTRADE MARKET
Fri Dec 6 & Fri Dec 20
A producers’ market showcasing local and Fairtrade foods and crafts from west Cumbria. Music from local musicians and homemade refreshments served by local charities and groups. Transport is available from villages north of Bootle and Millom. Call Helen to find out more 07901 790734.
MARKET STREET, EGREMONT
CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL MARKET
Fri Dec 6-Sun Dec 8
Yew Tree Barn and the courtyard will be full of artisan stalls offering Christmas gifts, handcrafted art and foodie treats, all aglow with twinkling lights, live music and a renowned festival atmosphere. Seasonal delights will be available at Harry’s Café Bar, along with Harry’s braai, street food stalls, mulled wine and mince pies. A shuttle bus will operate on the main road and each £4 entry fee (children free) supports local charities including High Newton Village Hall.
YEW TREE BARN, LOW NEWTON
HAWKSHEAD CHRISTMAS FAIR
Sat Dec 7 & Sun Dec 8
The pretty village of Hawkshead is a picture postcard setting for the annual Christmas Fair. With a range of local artisanal gifts, food tents and entertainment it’s got plenty of ideas for Christmas gifts.
MAIN STREET, HAWKSHEAD
visitlakedistrict.com
TASTE CUMBRIA CHRISTMAS
Sat Dec 7 & Sun Dec 8
Get into the festive spirit and enjoy more than just food and drink. There will be gifts and homewares, seasonal specials and all the sweet and savoury treats you’d expect from the county’s favourite food festival.
COCKERMOUTH
visitallerdale.co.uk
CHRISTMAS FAMILY SHOWS IN CUMBRIA
HANSEL & GRETEL
Thu Nov 28-Sat Dec 7
The annual, traditional festive pantomime is sure to be a classic show of laughs, songs, slapstick and audience participation.
WEST WALLS THEATRE, CARLISLE
carlislegreenroom.uk
THE JUNGLE BOOK
Until Sun Jan 12
Based on the adored children’s classic by Rudyard Kipling, this stage adaptation features loveable characters, catchy songs and charming puppetry. A playful tale of adventure, friendship and belonging, it’s a high-flying adventure for all the family this Christmas.
THEATRE BY THE LAKE, KESWICK
theatrebythelake.com
THE MAN WHO WANTED TO BE A PENGUIN
Fri Dec 13, Wed Dec 18 & Thu Dec 19, Mon Dec 23 & Tue Dec 24
Featuring puppets, acting, movement, song and audience participation, a show that’s full of humour, quirky songs and sound effects, interesting characters, relevant stories and infectious energy. Recommended age 3+
BREWERY ARTS, KENDAL
breweryarts.co.uk
SANTA’S CHRISTMAS CRACKER
Fri Dec 20-Tue Dec 24
Join Father Christmas and friends for a fun, festive, musical adventure to discover the wonder of Christmas. After the show each child gets to meet Father Christmas and receive a wrapped present.
OLD LAUNDRY THEATRE, BOWNESS ON WINDERMERE
oldlaundrytheatre.co.uk
MERRY CHRISTMAS MARY POPPINS
Fri Dec 20 & Sat Dec 21
Happy Thoughts Drama Company is featuring the much-loved Mary Poppins in a brand-new adventure this Christmas.
THEATRE ROYAL, WORKINGTON
theatre-royal-workington.co.uk
POLARIS THE SNOW BEAR
Polaris is a travelling bear and he is on the longest journey of his life to find the great Mr Hat-In-Burrow, a renowned human naturalist who, legend says, has the key to saving the polar world. Many comedic adventures ensue as, with the help of his reluctant young human sidekick, he sets out to try and put everything right in time for Christmas.
Thu Dec 12
CROSBY RAVENSWORTH VILLAGE HALL
Fri Dec 13
GRASMERE VILLAGE HALL
Sun Dec 15
STAINTON VILLAGE HALL
highlightsnorth.co.uk
SANTA EXPRESS
Thurs Dec 5-Tues Dec 24
Jack Frost has kidnapped Santa but fear not, the Christmas Fairy is about to take young Holly on an adventure to the North Pole via The Santa Express where, with the help of Dame Dolly Claus and Declan Hall the elf, they’ll go on the ultimate Christmas family panto adventure.
THE FORUM, BARROW
theforumbarrow.co.uk
SANTA'S CHRISTMAS CRACKER!
Fri Dec 6
Join the adventures of Dotty, Pompom and Dasher the reindeer in a festive, interactive, song-filled visit to Santa's house. Afterwards each child will meet Father Christmas and receive a present.
ROSEHILL THEATRE, WHITEHAVEN
rosehilltheatre.co.uk
ALADDIN AND HIS AMAZING LAMP
Sun Dec 8-Sun Dec 29, 2.30pm
Prepare to be spellbound by a tale based on one of the 101 Arabian Night stories told by Scheherazade to her husband, the Sultan. Meet the Genie of the Lamp, watch Aladdin fly his magic carpet and see if he finally wins the hand of the Princess. Fully staged with lighting, musical score and special effects. After the show meet the puppets and puppeteers, ask questions and take photographs.
UPFRONT PUPPET THEATRE, UNTHANK
up-front.com ticketsource.co.uk/upfrontartslimited/e-vkeore
TINSEL
Tue Dec 10-Sat Dec 28
This is the tale of one magical little boy who dreams of being the fairy on top of the Christmas tree He can sing, dance and wear a sparkly tiara as well as anyone else can, but to get to the top he’ll have to convince a whole tree of doubting baubles, naughty elves and a naysaying nutcracker that anyone can shine if they’re just given the chance.
THEATRE BY THE LAKE, KESWICK
theatrebythelake.com
FAIRYTALE CHRISTMAS SHOW
Mon Dec 16
The McDougalls children’s theatre company presents its spectacular, new winter show. Join stars of stage and screen, Auntie Aggie, Max and Morag the rabbit for a musical extravaganza in a world of wonder.
THEATRE ROYAL, WORKINGTON
theatre-royal-workington.co.uk
THE LITTLE MERMAID
Sun Dec 29 & Mon Dec 30
Dive into an underwater adventure in The Little Mermaid, a lively pantomime filled with festive fun for all ages.
RHEGED, PENRITH
rheged.com
CHRISTMAS ADULT SHOWS IN CUMBRIA
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Sat Dec 11
It’s Christmas Eve, and the miserly misanthrope Ebenezer Scrooge is about to have a ghostly night he’ll never forget. Dickens’ festive, immortal tale of redemption and compassion is brought to life in Dyad’s inimitable solo style.
OLD LAUNDRY THEATRE, BOWNESS-ON-WINDERMERE
oldlaundrytheatre.co.uk
BARBARA NICE'S CHRISTMAS CRACKER
Fri Dec 13
Join local housewife Barbara Nice in a seasonal selection box of comedy fun and frolic. Forget your troubles – come on get happy!
ROSEHILL THEATRE, WHITEHAVEN
rosehilltheatre.co.uk
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE RADIO PLAY
Wed Dec 18 & Thu Dec 19
Set in a radio station in the 1940s, lots of actors play more than 30 characters. Feel the spirit of Christmas as Frank Capra’s 1946 Christmas film comes vividly to life.
OLD LAUNDRY THEATRE, BOWNESS-ON-WINDERMERE
oldlaundrytheatre.co.uk
A CHRISTMAS KILLING: MURDER MYSTERY
Fri Dec 20
Step back to Christmas Day 1843 where the renowned businessman Sir Alan Scrooge is found dead in his parlour on a snow-covered morning. With a long list of suspects, you’d think the killer would be easy to identify. But why is there only one set of tracks in the snow? How did Scrooge meet his demise behind a locked door? And what’s spiritualist Charlie Dickens doing lurking around?
TULLIE, CARLISLE
tullie.org.uk
FEVER DRAG CABARET
Sun Dec 22
The FEVER team are back with a special Christmas cabaret.
THE KIRKGATE CENTRE, COCKERMOUTH
kirkgateartsandheritage.org.uk
ON SCREEN
ANDRÉ RIEU 2024 CHRISTMAS CONCERT: GOLD AND SILVER
Fri Dec 7 & Sat Dec 8
Join the festive magic with André Rieu's Christmas concert featuring timeless holiday music performed with his renowned orchestra in a spectacular seasonal show.
RHEGED, PENRITH
rheged.com
THE ROYAL BALLET: CINDERELLA
Sun Dec 15
This Christmas be transported into an ethereal world where a sprinkling of fairy dust makes dreams come true. This enchanting ballet by The Royal Ballet’s founding choreographer Frederick Ashton is a theatrical experience for all the family.
ROSEHILL THEATRE, WHITEHAVEN
rosehilltheatre.co.uk
THE NUTCRACKER
Thu Dec 19 & Fri Dec 20
Peter Wright’s much-loved production for The Royal Ballet with gorgeous period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman keeps true to the spirit of this festive ballet classic, combining the thrill of the fairy tale with spectacular dancing.
FELLINIS, AMBLESIDE
zeffirellis.com
![Solway Singers]()
Solway Singers
CHRISTMAS MUSIC EVENTS IN CUMBRIA
CHRISTMAS CAROLS WITH GRASMERE GLEE
Sun Dec 8
Enjoy a traditional afternoon at Allan Bank singing carols around the Christmas tree with local choir Grasmere Glee. Anyone can join in – the more the merrier. The event is free, but normal admission charges apply for entry to Allan Bank. Free entry for National Trust members.
ALLAN BANK, GRASMERE
nationaltrust.org.uk
GABRIELI ROAR: A GRAND GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS
Wed Dec 4
Songs, carols and anthems by composers ranging from Handel and Haydn to lesser-known figures, including pieces such as Veni, veni emmanuel; As shepherds watched their fleecy care; Adeste fideles; Hush my dear, lie still and slumber; and Hark! The herald angels sing (in a version probably unknown to many).
CARLISLE CATHEDRAL
carlislecathedral.org.uk
HOLLY AT CHRISTMAS – BUDDY HOLLY AND THE CRICKETERS
Sat Dec 7
Buddy Holly and The Cricketers once again herald in the yuletide festivities with a show that is as traditional as mulled wine and mince pies.
ROSEHILL THEATRE, WHITEHAVEN
rosehilltheatre.co.uk
CHORAL CONCERT
Sat Dec 7
The Penrith Singers perform selected movements from JS Bach’s Christmas Oratorio.
ST ANDREW’S CHURCH, PENRITH
penrithsingers.co.uk
CITY OF CARLISLE ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Sat Dec 7
The programme comprises Holst: Suite De Ballet; Prokofiev: Lieutenant Kijé Suite; Booth (Cumbrian composer): Lakeland; Hely-Hutchinson: Carol Symphony.
ST JOHN'S CHURCH, CARLISLE
cityofcarlisleorchestra.co.uk
BOOGIE DAYS DISCO – CHRISTMAS EDITION
Sat Dec 7
Get ready to jump into the holiday spirit and dance the day away to an epic mix of 80s, 90s and festive Christmas classics. Don your brightest, sparkiest disco attire for a chance to win a dazzling prize.
BOWNESS BAY BREWERY, KENDAL
bownessbaybrewing.co.uk
FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS MUSIC
Tue Dec 10, 7.30pm
Keswick Choral Society presents its popular, annual Christmas Carols for Choir and Audience, accompanied in church this year by the children of the town’s training brass band KickBrass. Extracts from Handel’s Messiah and the rarely performed cantata by Gustav Holst, Christmas Day, will also be included. Wendy Sharrock is contralto soloist and the organ will be played by Jordan English of St Giles’s Cathedral, Edinburgh, conducted by KCS’s musical director Ian Hare. Tickets for £13 from Bookends, choir members and Eventbrite in advance, or £15 on the door; under 12s free.
ST JOHN’S CHURCH, KESWICK
G4 CHRISTMAS
Tues Dec 10
Escape into a world of mesmerising harmonies, beautifully blended voices and impeccable showmanship within an idyllic festive setting as Jon, Jai, Mike and Duncan bring their hotly anticipated 20th anniversary G4 Christmas tour.
CARLISLE CATHEDRAL
carlislecathedral.org.uk
WIGTON CHORAL SOCIETY
Sat Dec 14
Christmas Oratorio by Bob Chilcott with David T Shingler (organ), Sarah Devereux (flute), Anne-Marie Kerr (mezzo-soprano), Cameron Mitchell (tenor) and Sam Weakley (bass). Tickets are £13 in advance from catservante7@gmail.com, 016973 51934 or £15 on the door. Under-16s free.
ST MARY’S CHURCH, WIGTON
wigtonchoral.org.uk
ST CUTHBERT’S CHURCH CHORAL CONCERT
Sat Dec 14
The Solway Singers choir will be joined for their Christmas concert by the Border Concert band and Cumwhinton school choir for a programme of traditional Christmas music and song.
ST CUTHBERT’S CHURCH, CARLISLE
solwaysingers.org
LANERCOST PRIORY CHORAL CONCERT
Sun Dec 15 & Sun Dec 22
Brampton Chamber Choir’s well-loved annual Christmas concert. On December 22 the choir will also lead community carol singing from 3pm at The Fleece, Ruleholme (CA6 4NF) followed by the Carol Service at 6.30pm in Lanercost Priory.
LANERCOST PRIORY
bramptonchamberchoir.co.uk
SEASON’S GREETINGS CONCERT
Sat Dec 21
An evening of Christmas music and words with Helen Longworth (musician and Archers actor) and Peter Rylands, in aid of Hospice at Home – Carlisle and North Lakeland and in memory of Janet Hartley.
KIRKBY STEPHEN SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB
ticketsource.co.uk/kirkbyclub
SANTA, HOLLY AND THE MUSIC OF CHRISTMAS
Mon Dec 23
Performed live by professional musicians, this is a one-hour show for the whole family that will have you singing along, doing the actions and feeling heartwarmingly Christmassy from the first song.
ZEFFIRELLIS JAZZ BAR, AMBLESIDE
wegottickets.com
COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS
CHRISTMAS LUNCHES AT DALEMAIN
Wed Nov 27-Wed Dec 18
Home-cooked festive food served in the splendour of the Mediaeval Hall which will be decorated with Christmas garlands and a warm log fire.
DALEMAIN MANSION & HISTORIC GARDENS
dalemain.com
CHRISTMAS VETERANS' LUNCH
Mon Dec 9
Calling all ex-servicemen and women… Where can you get a full turkey Christmas lunch for just £4? At the annual Veterans’ Christmas Lunch held at the museum, of course. Tickets must be booked in advance.
THE CASTLE, CARLISLE
enquiries@cmoml.org
BOXING DAY RIDE & DRIVE IN DAY
Thu Dec 26
Drive down to the museum on Boxing Day and join other classic and vintage car lovers at the Classic Drive and Ride In Day. Last year’s event saw around 150 vehicles gather outside the museum, which is open to owners of classic cars, trucks, vans and motorbikes, as well as more recent hot hatches, superminis and high-performance sports cars. You don't have to own a classic vehicle to attend.
LAKELAND MOTOR MUSEUM, BACKBARROW
CHRISTMAS CRAFTS IN CUMBRIA
GIFT IT CHRISTMAS OPEN DAY
Tue Dec 3 & Wed Dec 4
Would you like to take part in spreading a little Christmas kindness through creativity? There are two making open days to take part in, led by professional artist and maker Janice Murray. Learn how to make three festive felt decorations: gift one to yourself, one to a loved one and donate one.
ROSEHILL THEATRE, WHITEHAVEN
rosehilltheatre.co.uk
CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING
Thu Dec 5
Brighten up your home with a touch of Brantwood’s flora. Join Brantwood’s very own florista, Janet, for a special festive workshop. Enjoy morning refreshments and a seasonal lunch as you craft your own beautiful wreath.
BRANTWOOD, CONISTON
brantwood.org.uk
CRAFTS@KIRKGATE: CHRISTMAS WREATH WORKSHOP
Sat Dec 7
Celebrate Cumbria’s winter season by making your very own sustainable festive wreath to dress your front door. Harriet, from Cumberland Flower Farm, will bring a mix of evergreen foliage, grasses and berries and guide you in crafting a compostable wreath using sustainable materials and techniques.
THE KIRKGATE CENTRE, COCKERMOUTH
kirkgateartsandheritage.org.uk
NATURAL CHRISTMAS WREATHS
Sat Dec 7
Join a fun, festive workshop and create a stunning Christmas wreath using locally sourced natural foliage and dried flowers. Alongside a roaring wood fire, chat, make and munch on some Christmas treats
COWSHED CREATIVE, NEAR STAVELEY
cowshedcreative.co.uk
LAMPWORK CHRISTMAS PENGUINS
Sat Dec 7
This beginners’ course with Hen Ogledd will show you how to heat, shape and manipulate molten glass using the lampworking torch. You will then use these skills to create a collection of Christmas inspired characters that can be made into earrings and necklaces.
THE MAKERS MILL, KESWICK
themakersmill.co.uk
CHRISTMAS WREATHS
Sat Dec 7
Craft your own beautiful, wild and natural-style wreath in this historic and enchanting setting.
All wreath-making materials including foliage and natural accessories will be provided along with tea, coffee and sweet treats. Bring your own secateurs and gardening gloves.
THE FRATRY HALL, CARLISLE CATHEDRAL
tockify.com/carlislecathedral
Please check events for latest updates before setting out as some details may change. Some events may require tickets or pre booking. The Guide is a free service, send event information in the above format, with ‘The Guide’ in the subject box, to news@cumbrialife.co.uk
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