Silent night? Not likely. Head along to one of these Christmas shows for full-throttle festive entertainment for the whole family, or head to York Minster for a lovely traditional start to your celebrations. Keep checking back here for our pick of the best pantomimes in York, as well as the best Christmas shows, and the all-important details of this year’s York Minster Crib Service. Oh, and if you’re looking for festive days out or places to meet Santa in York, take a look at our handy guide. We hope you and your family enjoy your-elf!
Sleeping Beauty at York Theatre Royal
York Theatre Royal pantomime returns for 2025 with Sleeping Beauty, an enchanting tale of adventure, fun and spellbinding magic for the whole family. Running from 2nd December 2025 to 4th January 2026, audiences can expect stunning costumes, gorgeous sets, dazzling special effects and all the spectacular magic of a York Theatre Royal pantomime.
2nd December 2025 to 4th January 2026 – Visit the York Theatre Royal website for more info and tickets
Cinderella at the Grand Opera House York
Everyone is welcome to the festive ball at the Grand Opera House in York this Christmas. Expect side-splitting comedy, lavish settings and adorable miniature ponies! Cinderella will be more fun than you can shake a pumpkin at. Casting is to be announced, but expect stars from stage and screen. The show will run from 6th December 2025 to 4th January 2026 – Visit the website
York Minster Crib service
The York Minster Crib Service is a very popular way for York families to see in the festive season. Expect the traditional Christmas story told in a very family-friendly way, with carols to sing along to. It’s a very relaxed affair, where dressing up in your best Christmas jumper is encouraged. York Minster – 24th December 2024, 11.30am – Free, no need to book – Visit the York Minster website
The Nutcracker at York Minster – Immerse yourself in Tchaikovsky’s winter wonderland set on a cold Christmas Eve, brought to life on the cathedral’s Grand Organ. Hear the twinkle of the Sugar Plum Fairy and join the epic battle against the Mouse King, brought to life with a beautiful handmade puppet, beautiful organ music, imaginative storytelling and plenty of Christmas magic.
York Minster – 7th December 2024, 7pm – yorkminster.org
York’s Annual Community Carol Concert at York Barbican – Join York RI Golden Rail Band, Knavesmire Primary School, Heworth Community Choir, and York’s very own West End showman, Ian Stroughair for an afternoon of Christmas cheer. Carol concert regular, the popular Steve Cassidy, will be singing along with the ensemble, whilst Musical Director Mike Pratt will lead the community singing. The event will be co-hosted by Rev Andrew Foster and Adam Tomlinson. Sunday 15th December 2024 – York Barbican – Visit the website
A Christmas Cracker at Friargate Theatre – Things are not going well for world-famous storyteller Ebeneezer Sneezer. He’s lost. There is snow in his wellies and his wise and faithful dog, Cracker, has some strange ideas about Christmas. Caught taking shelter in Mrs McGinty’s barn, she allows them to stay on condition that Ebeneezer warm up her Christmas with some of his seasonal stories. pull open this delightful cracker packed with comedy, puppetry, and seasonal storytelling, as Riding Lights offers the whole family a magical glimpse into the heart of Christmas. Friargate Theatre, York, YO1 9SL – Saturday 21st December 2024 to Tuesday 24th December 2024 – Visit the website
