There are lots of exciting festive events taking place in Harrogate, Leeds and surrounding areas this year including Christmas markets, ice skating and pantomime shows to entertain all the family. After having lots of restrictions in place over the last few years due to the pandemic, this year we can enjoy a lot more fun Christmas activities in Leeds and nearby areas again and give children a Christmas to remember.

To make the most of the festivities this year, it is a good idea to plan ahead because some of the ticketed events will be booked up early. Here are some of the best festive activities happening around Harrogate and Leeds this Christmas:

Glow at RHS Harlow Carr

The stunning setting of RHS Garden Harlow Carr is turned into a magical illuminated trail, for an evening of walking in nature infused with a festive ambience. Wander around the spectacular light display and indulge in treats such as hot chocolate from Harrogate’s famous Bettys TeaRoom.

A new synchronised, dancing lights display around the Queen Mother’s Lake has arrived for 2022, which you can enjoy while tucking into some festive food or a mulled wine.

Prices for members start from £3.95 for children aged 5-16 and £7.95 for adults. Non-member prices start from £6.95 for children aged 5-16 and £12.95 for adults. Click here for more info – just take them to the info page.  Book your tickets now

Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland

The doors to Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland opened on 18 November where you will find all kinds of exciting activities for the family. The largest outdoor ice rink in the North of England, Ice Factor, is one of the top attractions and the Vintage Funfair has lots of rides and stalls that the kids will love. You can book a visit to Santa’s Grotto and finish your evening off relaxing with a hot drink and food in the cosy, alpine-themed The Chalet.

Discounted family tickets are available to purchase, and your skate hire is included in the price.

Book your tickets now. Click here for more information

Harrogate Christmas Market

Unfortunately, Leeds Christmas Market has been cancelled for 2022 but there are plenty of other markets still happening in the region. Harrogate Christmas Market runs from 2-11 December across the centre, with all the usual festive artisan gifts, cheese and other food treats. If you fancy visiting a larger market, the Sheffield Christmas Market started on 18 November and the Manchester Christmas Market opened on 10 November.

Christmas shows

There is a great selection of shows in and around Leeds over the festive period, including:

The Northern Ballet’s The Nutcracker (20 Dec to 7 Jan) at Leeds Grand Theatre

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical (18 Nov to 28 Jan) at Leeds Playhouse

Dick Whittington: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto (28 Nov to 8 Jan) at City Varieties

Cinderella (25 Nov to 8 Jan at The Carriageworks Theatre

For some more ideas for fun Christmas activities for kids, the North Leeds Mumbler has listed some additional local events to take the family to.

Image credit: Yorkshire Winter Wonderland