Christmas in York – 14 magical things to do in York this festive season
Wander through York’s medieval streets glowing under sparkling lights, with the scent of mulled wine, rich with zesty orange and warm spices, drifting through the air. The season is all about making memories with loved ones, and the city offers plenty of family-friendly delights: from pantomimes and carol concerts to charming markets, festive events, ice rinks, and the chance to meet Father Christmas himself.
Updated for 2026
Christmas in York – 14 magical things to do in York this festive season
Updated to 14 magical ideas for Christmas 2026, whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy in York this Christmas.
York Christmas Market
Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square
November 12 – December 21 2026
Experience the magic of Christmas in York as the city’s streets are once again lined with charming alpine chalets for the return of the hugely popular Christmas Market. Open six days a week from Wednesday to Monday, with Tuesdays set aside as a rest day, the market stretches from Parliament Street to St Sampson’s Square and sits at the very heart of York’s festive celebrations. Local traders offer an array of handmade gifts, artisan products and delicious seasonal treats, with plenty of stocking fillers to help you find something special for loved ones. Wander through a true winter wonderland, complete with twinkling fairy lights, festive aromas and cheerful stalls. And for the ultimate seasonal indulgence, warm up with a festive drink at THOR’s Tipi at The Milner or York Museum Gardens – two magical spots to relax with friends by the crackling fire and soak up the Christmas spirit.
image credit Visit York
THOR’S On Ice
Behind York Art Gallery, York Museum Gardens, Museum Street, York, YO1 7FR
New for Christmas 2026, THOR’S on ICE is bringing festive ice skating to the heart of York. Set in the beautiful Museum Gardens, you can skate under the stars before warming up with a festive drink, food and cosy firepit vibes at THOR’S tipi. Whether you’re a confident skater or a first timer, it looks set to be a magical addition to York’s Christmas celebrations.
Fairfax House
A Christmas Tail: The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse at Fairfax House
Step into a Georgian Christmas at Fairfax House, where the elegant townhouse is transformed with lavish decorations and festive greenery.
This year, discover A Christmas Tail: The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse, inspired by Aesop’s much-loved fable. Follow a group of curious country mice as they venture into the city and discover grand feasts, fabulous fashion, Frost Fair bargains and a lavish ball, but will they be able to avoid temptation?
Hundreds of bespoke mice, each lovingly hand-stitched by volunteers and dressed in unique outfits, are hidden throughout the House. Can you spot them all?
With under-16s going free, it’s a magical Christmas experience for the whole family.
Image credit, Laura Grayson
Grand Opera House
Clifford and Cumberland Street, York, YO1 9SW
The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook at The Grand Opera House
Get ready to fly off to Neverland this Christmas! Musical theatre and TV star Tom Lister (Emmerdale, 42nd Street) takes on the role of Captain Hook, alongside Jimmy Bryant as Smee, Holly Atterton as Tinker Bell, Joe Sleight as Peter Pan and Kirsty Sparks as Ethel the Mermaid.
Expect spectacular choreography, show-stopping songs, dazzling special effects and jaw-dropping stunts as Neverland comes to life.
A magical pantomime adventure for all the family – one you won’t want to miss!
City Cruises York Santa Experience
City Cruises York depart from Lendal Bridge, York. YO1 7DP
Step aboard a City Cruises York boat this Christmas and join Santa for a festive adventure along the River Ouse. Little ones can explore Santa’s grotto and meet Father Christmas himself, with every well-behaved child receiving a personalised gift to take home. With refreshments, festive fun, and plenty of surprises for all ages, it’s the perfect way to make magical Christmas memories on the water.
Image credit – City Cruises
York Theatre Royal
St Leonard’s Place, York, YO1 7HD
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at York Theatre Royal
This Christmas, Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs promises a festive fairytale extravaganza at York Theatre Royal, packed with lavish costumes, stunning sets, hilarious jokes and dazzling special effects.
Children’s TV star Richard David-Caine (Horrible Histories, Swashbuckle) joins Robin Simpson as Dame Dolly, alongside Tommy Carmichael as Muddles, Dean Whatton (Game of Thrones) as Sarge, West End star Jenny Gayner (Chicago, Gangsta Granny) as the Wicked Queen, Christian Mortimer as Prince Charming and Marcavia McCarthy as Snow White.
Written by Paul Hendy and directed by Juliet Forster, the show reunites York Theatre Royal with award-winning Evolution Productions – the team behind last year’s show Sleeping Beauty.
image credit Alex Holland
Castle Howard
Castle Howard, York, YO60 7DA
A Dickens of a Christmas at Castle Howard
Christmas comes to life at Castle Howard in this spectacular Victorian-inspired extravaganza. Expect grand projections, atmospheric soundscapes and theatrical surprises as characters from Charles Dickens’ much-loved novels leap off the page.
Warm up by the roaring fire and meet familiar faces including Ebenezer Scrooge, alongside a ghost or two, in an immersive celebration filled with nostalgia, storytelling and festive magic.
Following the success of Christmas at Castle Howard with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and Alice’s Christmas Wonderland, CLW Event Design and imitating the dog return with another magical Christmas experience.
Tickets for Christmas at Castle Howard are now available, and pre-booking is highly recommended.
Image credit – Sally Bendall
Christmas at York Minster
Deangate, York, YO1 7HH
York Minster has a packed programme of festive events this Christmas. A highlight is the magical Christmas Tree Festival, with 100 beautifully decorated trees filling the Minster from late November into January, alongside the family-friendly Minster Mash-Up and its special lights switch-on. There’s also the chance to enjoy Fairytale at York Minster: Christmas Hits by Candlelight, plus the traditional Crib Service on Christmas Eve. With its spectacular setting, twinkling trees and festive events, York Minster is a beautiful place to soak up the Christmas atmosphere.
Image credit – dreamstime
Christmas shopping in York
Christmas shopping in York is a magical experience, with the city’s historic streets transformed into a festive wonderland. The cobbled lanes of the Shambles and Stonegate twinkle with fairy lights, while the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts drifts through the air. If you’re searching for the perfect gift for someone special, Coppergate Shopping Centre has you covered and is sure to bring plenty of smiles on Christmas morning. With a mix of big-name high-street shops, cosy cafés, galleries, and even museums, it’s the ideal spot to tick off your festive shopping list and enjoy a little seasonal cheer along the way.
Soak up the festive atmosphere in the historic city of York and discover everything from charming stocking fillers to extra-special gifts. The city’s most popular shopping streets are brimming with choice, Parliament Street and Coney Street are home to high-street favourites, while Fossgate, Goodramgate, and Stonegate are lined with independent boutiques and hidden gems. With so many fantastic local businesses to explore, York is the perfect place to find thoughtful gifts and unique treasures this Christmas.
Christmas at Treasurer’s House
Minster Yard, York, YO1 7JL
Step into the festive charm of Treasurer’s House, where beautiful decorations, twinkling lights, and the warmth of the season bring Frank Green’s stories to life. Many of the displays are lovingly handmade by the talented team of volunteers, adding an extra touch of magic. Take your time as you wander through the house, soaking up the atmosphere and creating special memories along the way.
(c) National Trust Images Sophie Fawcett
York Designer Outlet
St Nicholas Avenue, York, YO19 4TA
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland at York Designer Outlet
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland has become one of York’s favourite festive traditions, offering plenty of Christmas fun for all ages. From the sparkling outdoor ice rink and exciting funfair to Santa’s enchanting grotto and the cosy alpine café, The Chalet, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Tickets are on sale now and booking in advance is recommended – so get your skates on!
Christmas at York’s Chocolate Story
Kings Square, York, YO1 7LD
Join York’s Chocolate Story for a chocolate covered Christmas and get ready for a festive adventure. Discover why York is known as the Chocolate City with fascinating facts, interactive exhibits and hands-on chocolate making. York’s Chocolate Story is open daily for tours with an extra sprinkling of festive fun.
Image credit – York’s Chocolate Story
Shambles Market
Silver Street, York, YO1 8RY
Tucked just behind the famous Shambles, this historic market is home to over 70 independent traders, offering a treasure trove of fresh produce, unique crafts, vintage finds, and street food from around the world. Need a break after a morning of Christmas shopping? The Shambles Food Court is the perfect spot to grab a bite on the go, with everything from gourmet street food and international flavours to sweet treats and specialty drinks. There’s something for everyone, including a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options.
Santa Express at North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Pickering Station, Park Street, Pickering, YO18 7 AJ
All aboard the NYMR Santa Express! Families can enjoy a festive steam train ride filled with songs, games and festive fun brought to life by Santa’s mischievous elves. And, of course, there’s the chance to meet Father Christmas himself on board, making it a memorable festive experience for the whole family.
Image credit NYMR
Christmas at York Castle Museum
Tower Street, York, YO1 9RY
November 14 2026 – January 3 2027
Step into a festive wonderland at York Castle Museum this winter! Wander down the famous Victorian Street, Kirkgate, accompanied by the sounds of traditional carols. Snow dusted cobblestones are lined with beautifully decorated trees, filling the air with the scent of Christmas pine. Stunning period decorations adorn the shopfronts, and twinkling garlands create a magical, Dickensian Christmas atmosphere.
Whatever you’re doing this Christmas, have a wonderful time and be sure to follow me on instagram @girlabout.york and subscribe to our twice monthly newsletter for all the best travel inspiration!
By Laura Grayson
Updated for 2026
