Our Ultimate Guide to Christmas!

Last Updated on 6 December 2025 by Colette

I’ve got so much festive content on my site now that I thought it would be helpful to bring it all together in the same place, so whether you’re looking for places to see Father Christmas, things to do during the festive season, where to celebrate New Year’s Eve with the kids or even fancy trying some Christmas craft, I reckon I’ve got something for you here:

The best places to see Father Christmas

If you’re looking for the best places to see Father Christmas near you this year – I’ve got listings for Manchester, York and Leeds with traditional grottos, breakfast with Santa and full festive experiences on offer, you’ll be sure to find something to suit.

What is there to do this Christmas near me?

From light trails to ice skating and Christmas markets, there are so many exciting festive days out and experiences on offer this year – check out our listings of things to do in Manchester, Leeds and York this Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

Christmas Adventures – Tried & Tested!

We do love a festive adventure so here’s all the reviews we’ve written of Christmas experiences over the years (most recent first)!

Festive shows to watch this year

We are usually lucky enough to be able to get to the theatre a couple of times over the festive period so have seen quite a range of shows over the years – these are listed in chronological order with the most recent first.

Here’s a list of what’s on at the theatre in Manchester this Christmas

Reviews coming soon for:

Robin Hood at The Opera House, Manchester

Christmas Crafts for kids

My own children (and perhaps my patience) are long since over festive crafting at home – however these Christmas crafts are favourites and things we love to bring out and decorate our house with each year, marvelling at how much they have grown since we painted their hands green and made a handprint wreath together! I am by no means a skilled crafter so all the activities here are nice and simple, and really lovely to do together.

If there’s anything you think is missing from our guide to Christmas – let me know and I’ll try to make sure it’s added in for next year!

Have a look at our tips for getting a good night’s sleep at Christmas next.

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Author

  • Colette Burgess is an experienced primary school teacher and has lived in Manchester for most of her adult life. She is married to Dave and they have three children aged 12, 15, and 17.

    Colette has been writing about days out and adventures in Manchester and beyond including day trips and short breaks in the UK and holidays abroad since 2012.

    Colette and her family love festivals, camping and generally being outside.

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