York

York is a magical place to visit at Christmas time with its medieval streets that take you back in time is a shoppers delight with it famous Christmas markets, independent shops and mouth-watering treats there is something to enchant and delight everyone. To entertain you there are plenty of events and activities going on in the city so you can enjoy a fun packed day or weekend visiting this very special city.

Christmas Ghost Stories at Barley Hall

November 29, 2024 – November 30, 2024

Following in the fine festive tradition of telling ghostly stories by the fireside, join Edwardian Tales for an evening of haunting dark delights set during Christmastide. Our night of seasonal spirits features terrors from some of the finest authors of their age… W. W. Jacobs, Algernon Blackwood and A. M. Burrage. Bone chilling tales to conjure the spirits of Christmas...

A one-man performance, directed and haunted by Matthew Wood.

(Not suitable for children under 10 years of age) Book tickets via our website Christmas Ghost Stories at Barley Hall 

JORVIK Viking Centre

November 11, 2024 – February 23, 2025

This winter, experience AD 975 like never before! For the first time in 40 years, JORVIK Viking Centre is embracing the chill with an immersive winter makeover. Step into the icy world of the Vikings and discover how they braved the cold, kept themselves and their animals warm, what they ate and how they entertained themselves during the long, dark Yorkshire months.

Our snow-covered Viking Village sets the scene for wintery tales told by our resident skalds (that’s Viking storytellers to you!). Gather around and hear epic sagas of gods and monsters by the fire.

Pre-booking is essential. Find out more and book tickets on our website Winter at Jorvik

York Christmas Markets, Parliament Street and St Samsons Square

14 November – 22 December Voted the largest speciality Christmas Market in Britain there are over 75 stalls to explore. Adjacent to Parliament is Shambles Market where local traders will be displaying their festive goodies. Nearby is St Nicholas Fayre with Made in Yorkshire a collection of handmade crafts and artefacts made by local Yorkshiremen and women are for sale.

An Inspired Christmas at Treasurer’s House

30 November to 5 January 2025 This Christmas Treasurer's House will be transformed, as the stories of Frank Green and the people who surrounded him come to life through beautifully crafted festive decor. Expect surprises around every corner, with the unique history of the house reflected through the Christmas decorations. Treasurer’s House 

York Chocolate Story

Get ready for a festive adventure on Santa’s Christmas Chocolate Tour! This guided journey takes you through the ages of chocolate, revealing York’s rich heritage with each stop. Along the way, enjoy delicious chocolate samples, and meet Santa in his workshop, where you’ll create your own Christmas-themed chocolate treats. Santa's Christmas Tour - York's Chocolate Story

York Minster

Escape the mayhem of shopping and visit the Christmas Tree Festival. With over 70 Christmas trees beautifully decorated throughout the Minster enjoy a moment of calm and reflection in this magnificent space. yorkminster.org

Yorkshire Air Museum

Dec 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd.

Santa’s Airline 2024 – Meet the elves and visit Santa in his grotto in the Dakota paratrooper aircraft. The story of Christmases at RAF Elvington Carols, Christmas trees and decorations. Christmas menu in Café 77 xmas - Yorkshire Air Museum

Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland at the Designer Outlet York A magical day out awaits... Glide gracefully on the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink and marvel at the 30ft high sparkling Christmas tree taking centre stage on the ice. As dusk arrives, be enchanted by the illuminated trees, log cabins and reindeers as you skate under the stars! Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland is now open! Gather your friends and family and plan a festive day out with us. Tickets are now on sale and booking is recommended for skating. Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland

The Ice Trail February 1st – 2nd A great way to start the New Year after recovering from all the festivities is to visit the Ice Festival. The magnificent ice sculptures bring the city alive and is fun to explore plus it is free! Maps of the trail are available from York Tourist Information Centre in Parliament Street.