We’ve finally got our Christmas tree, we’ve kicked off our 12 Days of Xmas competition and we’re definitely in the mood for it. Find out what’s happening around town for London kids and families and don’t forget to munch on mince pies whenever you get the chance!
Don’t Miss our Top 10 Christmas Shows for London Families!
Thu-Sun: Dick Whittington and his Cat at Hackney Empire, 291 Mare St, E8 (Hackney Central overground)
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to the panto and Hackney Empire has established itself at the top of the heap. Oh no it hasn’t, oh yes it… alright, just get yourself down for a jolly good tale of fame and fortune seeking Dick and his feline chum with comedy, music and loads of audience participation. 1pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm, 5pm & 7pm (times and dates vary); £10-£29.50 (until Jan 6)
Fri-Sun: Greenwich Circus Festival
After its roaring success last year, Greenwich Circus Festival is back with live performances including Daytime Cabaret and Shipwreck Circus as well as circus workshops for young and old. 1-6pm (kids and adults), 6pm-2am (adults only); adult day or evening ticket £15/child £6 (Dec 14-16)
Fri-Sun: Echoa at Lost Theatre, 208 Wandsworth Rd, SW8 (Stockwell/Vauxhall tube)
Acclaimed French company Arcosm bring their stunning fusion of dance and drumming theatre in a multiple act show, guaranteed to entertain young and old. 2.30pm (Wed & Sat); 5pm (Sun); 7.30pm (Tue-Sat); adult £12/concs. £10/child £8 (until Dec 16)
Sat: The Christmas Workshop (pic) at the Lightyear Foundation, 47-49 Tanner St, London, SE1 (London Bridge tube)
There’s a special workshop in Santa’s secret grotto where kids of all ages can learn what goes into making snow globes and Christmas crackers, explore the maze and other scientific mysteries from the elf boffins. Free gift for kids under 12. For ages 3+. 10am-4.30pm (timed entry slots), £5/under 2s £2 (Dec 15)
Sat: Christmas Film Club at the Round Chapel, Powercroft Rd, Lower Clapton, E5 (Hackney Central overground)
Catch a double-bill of seasonal classics, the hilarious Elf starring Will Ferrell followed by the heart-tugging It’s a Wonderful Life, part of this pop-up cinema’s festive programme running through Dec 23. Elf (5pm) & It’s a Wonderful Life (8.30pm); adult £13.50/child under 12 £8.50 (Dec 15)
Sat: Oh Baby London Sample Sale at Suzzle, 47 Brick Lane, E1 (Shoreditch High St overground)
There will be hundreds of ultra hip Oh Baby London clothing in sample sizes 0-3m to 8 years starting at just 50p, plus bric a brac, toys, gluten free cake and damn fine coffee. Buy 3 items, get the 4th free! 10am-4pm, FREE entry (Dec 15)
Sat: Stepney City Farm Christmas Market, Stepney Way, E1 (Stepney Green tube)
Come along for a day of festive cheer and entertainment, with market stalls to bag a last minute gift, storytelling, carols, Christmas treats and farm produce. 11am-4pm, FREE (Dec 15)
Sun: Breakfast with Santa at Hard Rock Cafe, 150 Old Park Lane, W1 (Green Park tube)
Tuck into a delicious American style buffet breakfast with the big guy himself, and enjoy fun extras including face painting, activities, dancing and a special gift. 10am-12pm, adult £11.95/child £7.95 (Dec 16)
Local Pick
Fri-Sun: Bringing Down the Moon at Pleasance Theatre, Carpenters Mews, North Rd, N7 (Caledonian Rd tube)
A sweet adaptation of the well-loved book by Jonathan Emmett sees Mole burrowing out of his hole, and attempting to bring the moon to earth. Book signing with the author on Saturday (Dec 15)! For ages 3+. 11am & 1pm, £8/£7 concs (Dec 14-Jan 2)
We also like
Santacon 2012 sees hundreds of santas take over central London (Sat), Rhinestone Rollers wheelchair troupe boogie on down at Southbank Centre (Sat), there’s a family carol concert at Burgh House in Hampstead (Sun)
Look out for our London Kids Christmas Guide out this weekend!
Photo via The Christmas Workshop web site
