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Join the Magic at Santa’s Cabin

2nd November-24th December 2024

Venue: Lakeside Shopping Centre

Website: www.lakeside-shopping.com

Children will receive a special gift from Santa himself and the chance to capture unforgettable memories with photo souvenirs will also be available. Spaces are very limited, so pre-book your visit secure...

Epping Ongar Lights Express

16th November-12th January 2025

Venue: Epping Ongar Railway

Website: www.eorailway.co.uk

Join the festive action on board and get in the party mood with a festive DJ mix of music the whole family will love. Each passenger will receive their own interactive LED wristband which is synchronised...

RHS Glow

22nd November-28th December 2024

Venue: RHS Hyde Hall

Website: www.rhs.org.uk

Create magical festive memories with loved ones at RHS Hyde Hall’s winter garden illuminations in Essex, as dazzling new installations light your way on this year’s spectacular Glow trail.Tickets must...

Magic of Christmas

23rd November-24th December 2024

Venue: Colchester Zoo

Website: www.colchesterzoologicalsociety.com

Immerse yourself in the wonderful Christmas atmosphere with festive activities taking place throughout the day including Jingle Jam Party, Christmas Tales, Christmas Puzzle Trail, Discovery Den, Face Painting...

The New Adventures of Peter Pan

23rd November-19th January 2025

Venue: Mercury Theatre

Website: www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Colchester’s favourite pantomime Neverland bursts to life in a spectacular production. The New Adventures of Peter Pan promises to be an awe-inspiring spectacle with the perfect blend of breath-taking...

The Santa Experience

23rd November-20th December 2024

Venue: Colchester Zoo

Website: www.colchesterzoologicalsociety.com

Step into Santa’s magical world located within the Zoo…The Santa Experience takes place within the Zoo grounds and an admission ticket will need to be purchased alongside a Santa Experience ticket....

Great Notley Country Park Junior Parkrun

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Great Notley Country Park

Website: www.explore-essex.com

Join this free, weekly 2k run aimed specifically at juniors aged 4 to 14 years-old. Parkrun organise free, weekly, 2km timed runs around the world for children. They are open to everyone and take place...

Gruffalo Trail

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Thorndon Country Park

Website: www.essexwt.org.uk/visit/nature-trail/gruffalo

Discover the magic of the deep dark wood with this self-led trail searching for the amazing hand crafted carvings of the Gruffalo characters. No booking required and the pathways are buggy friendly.

High Ropes Quiet Sessions

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Nuclear High Ropes

Website: www.nuclearhighropes.co.uk

Embark on a uniquely tailored adventure where tranquility meets thrilling heights! The exclusive Quiet Sessions have been thoughtfully designed to cater to individuals with Special Educational Needs (SEN),...

Jigsaw Performing Arts

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Chelmsford and Brentwood

Website: www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

Jigsaw's singing, dance and drama classes are dedicated to boosting confidence, improving social and communication skills and are lots of fun! Find your place to belong this autumn, and have the chance...

Kids for a Quid

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Epping Ongar Railway

Website: www.eorailway.co.uk

Keep the kids entertained on a day out with a steam and hauled heritage train service when Child tickets are just £1! Tickets offer unlimited travel on heritage steam and diesel trains and vintage London...

Laser Tag Parties

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Laser Mayhem

Website: www.laser-mayhem.co.uk

Offering Laser Tag from 7+ years and Mini-Paintball from ages 8-13. Laser Mayhem activities are perfect to keep up those team bonds. The large party rooms are ideal and they also offer food packages. Call...

Little Monkeys Sessions

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Nuclear High Ropes

Website: www.nuclearhighropes.co.uk

The new High Ropes Little Monkeys Sessions are crafted with your comfort in mind, offering access to the lower high ropes levels where you can build confidence at your own pace. Conquer your fears and...

Northlands Junior Parkrun

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Northlands Park

Website: www.parkrun.org.uk/northlands-juniors

A free, fun, and friendly weekly 2k event for juniors (4 to 14 year olds) held every Sunday at 9am. Free to join but you must register before you first go along. The aim is to have fun so go along and...

SEN Club

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Time and Space in Battlesbridge

Website: www.facebook.com/sen.club.2024

SEN Club is a lively, fun club for children with special needs and their families. Activities include Lego, biscuit decorating, crafts and toys, the children also enjoy parachute games to music and a lovely...

Try a free Perform Class

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Various venues

Website: www.perform.org.uk/try

Packed with fun drama-based games, singing and dancing, sessions allow reserved children to come out of their shell and give energetic children the perfect outlet to express themselves. Every child is...

Young Farmers Club

25th November-3rd February 2025

Venue: Lambourne End

Website: www.lambourne-end.org.uk/youngfarmersclub

The young farmers will be in a group of 12 and led by one member of staff along with additional team leader volunteers. The club aims to provide opportunities for young people to develop and participate...

Havering Christmas Land

27th November-1st January 2025

Venue: Harrow Lodge Park

Website: www.haveringmind.org.uk

Mind in Havering, Barking and Dagenham will transform and illuminate the ‘secret garden’ next to the historic building: Harrow Lodge House, into a unique and immersive festive experience of magic and...

Theatre & Cinema

Jack and the Beanstalk

28th November-5th January 2025

Venue: Towngate Theatre

Website: www.towngatetheatre.co.uk

Panto favourites, Sophie Ladds and Ian Hallard, will be returning as Basildon’s best baddie and fabulous flamboyant Dame!The Towngate’s award-winning, critically-acclaimed pantomimes are the jewel...

Theatre & Cinema

Dick Whittington

29th November-5th January 2025

Venue: Harlow Playhouse

Website: www.harlowplayhouse.co.uk

Join Dick on his journey through panto land as he seeks fame and fortune! Facing the wicked King Rat and his rat horde threatening global chaos, Dick and friends must do all they can to save the day! This...

Enlightened 2024

29th November-4th January 2025

Venue: Hylands Estate

Website: www.hylandsestate.co.uk

Enlightened features over a mile of specially curated illuminations that dance with delight along with a whole wealth of brand-new installations which have never been seen before at Enlightened Hylands....

Theatre & Cinema

Snow White

29th November-5th January 2025

Venue: Chelmsford Theatre

Website: www.chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk

Snow White and friends glide into Chelmsford for the 2024 panto with all the ingredients of a perfect family Christmas treat at Chelmsford Theatre. Expect back-chatting mirrors, evil stepmothers, kind...

BeWILDerwood Presents Christmas

30th November-23rd December 2024

Venue: Cheshire, Norfolk

Website: www.bewilderwood.co.uk

Stroll through the Sparkly Light Trail, where lights illuminate the woods in a mesmerising display. Enjoy a mini BeWILDerwood pantomime filled with festive cheer and meet some of your favourite characters...

Christmas at Ho-Ho-Hopefield

30th November-22nd December 2024

Venue: Hopefield Animal Sanctuary

Website: www.hopefield.org.uk

Join this festive event at Hopefield, perfect for the whole family to create special memories.Weekends from 30 Nov. Pre-booked timeslots between 10am - 3pm. Includes Letter to Santa, Christmas Trail, Santa's...

Enchanted Trail of Light

30th November-30th December 2024

Venue: Colchester Zoo

Website: www.colchesterzoologicalsociety.com

Experience a whole host of illuminations along a designated route, featuring an immersive blue ice tunnel, magical rainbow light bridge and life-sized animal illuminations. Plus, you can control the magic...

Meet Father Christmas

30th November-15th December 2024

Venue: Colchester Castle

Website: www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk

Colchester Castle’s enchanting grotto returns for 2024! This December, Father Christmas and his Castle helpers will bring Christmas joy to the children of Colchester and hand out some very special festive...

The Ho Ho Ho Christmas Show

3rd-24th December 2024

Venue: Mercury Theatre

Website: www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Get into the festive spirit as you travel to Santa’s workshop to meet Ivy the new Head Elf. She is busy preparing everything for Santa in time for Christmas Eve. There are presents to wrap and reindeer...

Enlightened

6th-24th December 2024

Venue: Castle Park

Website: www.colchester-events.co.uk/event/enlightened-2024

Immerse yourself in the new 50 metre digital tunnel of light, be amazed by the awe-inspiring laser show and prepare to be dazzled as mysterious creatures are brought to life with 3D special effects. Family...

Enlightened Markshall

6th-24th December 2024

Venue: Markshall Estate

Website: www.markshall.org.uk

Enlightened features over a mile of specially curated illuminations that dance with delight, bringing this breath-taking landscape to life. Immerse yourself in a giant digital tunnel of light and get ready...

Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs

7th-29th December 2024

Venue: Princes Theatre

Website: www.princestheatre.co.uk

Go and see the beautiful Snow White and her seven little friends from the enchanted forest as they attempt to defeat the evil Wicked Queen who is overcome with jealously when her magic mirror declares...

The Great Christmas Sleigh Ride

7th-24th December 2024

Venue: Harlow Playhouse

Website: www.harlowplayhouse.co.uk

The Great Christmas Sleigh Ride is a fun-filled, sing-along, interactive festive show for 2-6 year olds. Specially created by Harlow Playhouse who are delighted to bring back this fabulous family show...

Christmas Jumper Day 2024

12th December 2024

Venue: Nationwide

Website: www.savethechildren.org.uk

It’s super-simple to take part on Christmas Jumper Day. All you have to do is sign up, put the date in your calendar then on Thursday 12 December, put on your favourite Christmas jumper, donate £2 to...

Santa's Wish

12th-15th December 2024

Venue: Palace Theatre

Website: www.trafalgartickets.com/palace-theatre-southend

Santa's Wish follows Snowflake's enchanting journey to become one of Santa's elves. This heart-warming musical adventure is enriched with original songs, immersive storytelling and a sprinkling of circus...

Dear Santa

13th-24th December 2024

Venue: Chelmsford Theatre

Website: www.chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk

From the author of the much loved children's book Dear Zoo, Rod Campbell, comes Dear Santa. This show is an ideal introduction to theatre for those aged two and over. The Christmas cheer continues, with...

Abberton's Elf Workshop

14th December 2024

Venue: Abberton Reservoir Nature Discovery Park

Website: www.essexwt.org.uk

The elves are coming to Abberton! A day of festive fun filled with natural crafts, trails, a campfire snack, and even a small gift. Billie the Badger should be stopping by, and the elves have even bought...

Colchester Farmer’s Christmas Evening Market 2024

14th December 2024

Venue: Mercury Theatre

Website: www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

A wonderful selection of stalls will be selling a range of local artisan food, drink and handmade crafts and The Mercury Theatre have organised a programme of entertainment including carol singers and...

Theatre & Cinema

Elf The Musical

14th December-5th January 2025

Venue: Charter Hall

Website: www.colchester-events.co.uk

The hilarious tale of Buddy, who, as a baby, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and grows up in the North Pole. Raised as an elf and never quite fitting in, when Santa tells him the truth of...

Grange Farm Festive Family Forest Fun

14th December 2024

Venue: Grange Farm Centre

Website: www.essexwt.org.uk

A marvelous afternoon exploring nature - look for mini beasts, get making in the mud kitchen, build dens, climb trees, be creative with festive craft, and enjoy a campfire (weather permitting). Suitable...

Meet Santa

14th-22nd December 2024

Venue: Mercury Theatre

Website: www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Step into the cosy Studio Theatre for a charming holiday storytime, followed by a personal meet-and-greet with Santa. Your little ones will have the chance to chat with Santa, share their wishes, and receive...

Christmas at Harlow Leisurezone

17th-24th December 2024

Venue: Harlow Leisurezone

Website: www.harlowleisurezone.co.uk

The Christmas Kangaroo Club sessions on 16th, 19th, 21st, and 23rd December will allow tots to jump on large trampolines and learn new skills.Older kids can join the Christmas Mega Multi-Activity Day on...

A Very Merry Christmas Carol Concert

19th December 2024

Venue: Mercury Theatre

Website: www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Join this jolly holly afternoon of seasonal songs, readings and magical performances from their talented panto cast and Mercury staff in this festive treat for all the family. Tickets £2. Suitable for...

Starlight Grotto

19th-20th December 2024

Venue: Colchester Castle

Website: www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk

Children can share their Christmas wishes, receive a special gift, and enjoy magical moments in the soft, warm glow of candlelight, creating an enchanting and cosy atmosphere.Tickets cost £5 per adult...

Thameside Mother Christmas

19th-23rd December 2024

Venue: Thameside Nature Discovery Park

Website: www.essexwt.org.uk

Delight in a variety of festive activities, including; a story nook, holiday crafts, exciting games, and a charming Christmas trail! Then warm up by the fire with a tasty treat, enjoy a special visit with...

An Evening with Father Christmas and Friends

21st-23rd December 2024

Venue: Colchester Castle

Website: www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk

Join Father Christmas and his elves for a fun-packed evening of crafts, games, and Christmas magic! It’s the perfect start to your festive celebrations. Tickets include Christmas Games, Family Quiz,...

Theatre of Widdershins - Pigs and Bears Don't Come in Pairs!

21st-24th December 2024

Venue: Colchester Arts Centre

Website: https://colchesterartscentre.com

Two trios to tantalise and tickle your senses in this double bill of Furry Tails, where Goldilocks may even be more scary that the Big Bad Wolf! Book your place now for these well loved stories, retold...

Jack and the Beanstalk

22nd-29th December 2024

Venue: Saffron Hall

Website: www.saffronhall.com

Join Jack Trott as he embarks on an extraordinary journey up the beanstalk to an enchanted land above the clouds. With hilarious antics, loveable characters, and a handful of magic beans, this traditional...

Beauty and the Beast Christmas Panto

23rd December 2024

Venue: Hedingham Castle

Website: www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk

This Christmas, from the team who brought you Peter Pan and Jack and the Beanstalk, escape on a magical adventure with a fabulous, funny pop-up pantomime of Beauty and the Beast. Expect songs, silliness...

Drop-off Climbing Sessions

23rd December-3rd January 2025

Venue: IndiRock

Address: Victoria Shopping Centre

Website: www.indirock.co.uk

Drop your child off with IndiRock for two hours each weekday morning throughout the school holidays, and get yourself a break! 10am-12pm every weekday. Suitable for ages 6-13 years.

The Owl Who Came For Christmas

27th-31st December 2024

Venue: Palace Theatre

Website: www.trafalgartickets.com/palace-theatre-southend

Inspired by the true story of Rosie the Owl, this charming tale celebrates the power of love, kindness, and the magic of Christmas. With toe-tapping songs, captivating puppetry, and plenty of opportunities...

Winter Reading Challenge

2nd January-22nd February 2025

Venue: Various venues

Website: www.libraries.essex.gov.uk

Kids will take part in various exciting challenges ranging from reading to creating art to acting! They’ll choose from 12 challenges, and as they complete them, they’ll earn stickers to help the dragons...

The Royal Ballet and Opera: The Nutcracker

5th January 2025

Venue: Chelmsford Theatre

Website: www.chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk

Join Clara at a delightful Christmas Eve party that becomes a magical adventure once everyone else is tucked up in bed. Marvel at the brilliance of Tchaikovsky’s score, as Clara and her enchanted Nutcracker...

Taylormania

19th January 2025

Venue: Charter Hall

Website: www.colchester-events.co.uk

An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. Katy Ellis, a talented ‘Swiftie’ with an incredible live band and dancers promises...

Colchester Operatic Society – The Little Mermaid

31st January-9th February 2025

Venue: Mercury Theatre

Website: www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Let Colchester Operatic Society take you on an ‘under the sea’ musical adventure following the timeless tale of Ariel, a spirited young mermaid, who longs to be part of the human world. But transforming...

Pop Princesses

2nd February 2025

Venue: Towngate Theatre

Website: www.towngatetheatre.co.uk

A magical show where beautiful Princesses become Pop Stars. They just love to sing! Featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits from artists such as Taylor Swift, Meghan Trainor, Miley Cyrus, Dua Lipa and Lizzo,...

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