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. Here’s our pick of the best pantomimes and Christmas shows in York this year, 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!
Jack and the Beanstalk at York Theatre Royal
York Theatre Royal’s ever-popular pantomime returns for 2023 with a much-loved classic, Jack and the Beanstalk. Expect stunning sets, lavish costumes, breathtaking special effects and of course lots of panto magic as you go on a fun-filled adventure with Jack. Family tickets are available for all performances.
8th December 2023 to 7th January 2024 – Visit the York Theatre Royal website for more info and tickets
Robinson Crusoe at Grand Opera House York
York legend Berwick Kaler returns this year for another madcap panto at the Grand Opera House York: Robinson Crusoe and The Pirates of The River Ouse. Berwick will be joined on the Grand Opera House stage by his usual gang of David Leonard, Suzy Cooper, Martin Barrass and AJ Powell for a hilarious take on the classic story of the sailor from York who finds himself marooned on a desert island and finds that he’s not alone.
9th December 2023 to 6th January 2024 – 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. This year, you’ll need to book your free tickets online – they’ll be available on Tuesday 5th December 2023 from 10am via the York Minster website or by calling 01904 557200.
York Minster – 23rd December 2023, 11.30am – Free – Visit the York Minster website
Festive Feast with York Stage
York Stage proudly presents a Festive Feast of Christmas songs, ranging from the traditional to modern pop, and of course a few musical theatre classics… there really is something for everyone’s musical palate. Get ready for an evening of sensational vocals, featuring a host of York Stage talent accompanied by Adam Tomlinson and his band, as they take to the stage at Theatre@41 for the ultimate Christmas experience suitable for all the family. 15th to 22nd December 2023 – Theatre@41 – Visit the website for tickets
The Muppet Christmas Carol live at York Barbican – Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol will be presented live in concert this winter across the UK, featuring its musical score performed live to the film. The Muppet Christmas Carol sees The Muppets perform the classic Charles Dickens holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine). Gonzo, as Dickens, narrates the story with the help of Rizzo the Rat. The film also features Miss Piggy as Emily Cratchit, Gonzo as the narrator Charles Dickens, Fozzie Bear as Fozziwig, and Robin the Frog as Tiny Tim. 8th December 2023 – York Barbican – Visit the website for details
York’s Annual Community Carol Concert at York Barbican – Join Shepherd Group Youth Band, Badger Hill School Choir, Track 29 Ladies Harmony Chorus, York Stage School and Steve Cassidy for a Christmas sing along under the baton of Musical Director Mike Pratt. Carol concert favourites Adam Tomlinson and Rev Andrew Foster return to keep you entertained, be ready for laughs and maybe some festive surprises… 17th December 2023 – York Barbican – Visit the website
