Best Christmas activities to enjoy with your family in the South East this December

Best Christmas activities to enjoy with your family across the South East this December

The festive season is fast approaching, and there's no better way to celebrate Christmas than by spending quality time with your loved ones. If you're looking for family-friendly Christmas activities in the South East this December, you're in for a treat! From magical winter markets to enchanting light displays and festive performances. Romford, Colchester, Chelmsford and Southend-On-Sea are brimming with opportunities to create unforgettable memories. Here are some of the best Christmas activities you can enjoy with your family this holiday season.

Visit to Queen's Theatre for a Christmas Pantomime

Queen’s Theatre in Hornchurch is showcasing Cinderella from 22nd November - 4th January.  
For a classic Christmas experience, enjoy a pantomime performance at the Queen's Theatre in nearby Hornchurch. Every year, the theatre hosts a family-friendly pantomime, and it's an excellent way to introduce your children to the fun and tradition of British Christmas theatre. Expect plenty of laughs, songs, and audience participation. For information and tickets click here

Christmas at Ho-Ho-Hopefield (Animal Sanctuary)

Get in the festive spirit with Christmas at Ho-Ho-Hopefield in Brentwood. There are both indoor and outdoor activities, so the event will go ahead come rain or shine. You can choose to go on Christmas trails, take part in arts and crafts, access the mini Christmas Village and visit Santa's Grotto. For information and tickets click here

Visit to a Local Farm for Christmas Fun

For families who love animals and outdoor activities, head to nearby farms like Old MacDonald's Farm in Upminster, which often hosts Christmas events, such as meeting Santa and seeing live nativity scenes. Many farms also offer festive experiences like Christmas tree cutting, seasonal games and themed trained rides. For information and tickets click here

Christmas at Hylands House

If you’re willing to venture a bit outside Romford, Hylands House in Chelmsford offers an enchanting Christmas experience with festive markets, light trails, and seasonal events. It’s a magical venue with plenty of outdoor activities for families to enjoy, including meeting Santa and exploring beautifully decorated grounds. For information and tickets click here

Christmas at the Mercury Theatre

The Mercury Theatre in Colchester is hosting the new adventures of Peter Pan from 23rd November - 19th January. Pantomimes are a fun way to celebrate Christmas and are perfect for the whole family, with lots of music, laughter, and audience participation. Be sure to check the theatre’s schedule for showtimes during December. For information and tickets click here

The Colchester Light Trail at Castle Park

Colchester Castle Park hosts a magical Christmas Light Trail where the park’s trees, pathways, and landmarks are lit up with festive lights. It's a lovely family stroll where kids can enjoy the illuminated trees and festive displays while listening to Christmas carols and holiday music. For information and tickets click here

Pantomime at Chelmsford Civic Theatre

A Christmas pantomime is a must-do holiday tradition for many families, and the Chelmsford Civic Theatre is home to an annual pantomime production that’s perfect for all ages. This year you can expect Snow White from 29th November - 5th January. It's a fantastic way to celebrate the season with your family. For information and tickets click here

Christmas Workshops at Chelmsford Library

Chelmsford Library hosts a variety of Christmas-themed workshops for children and families throughout December. Enjoy festive fun with a special Christmas story time, craft-making and colouring and a visit from Father Christmas. This event will also include a special Christmas magic show with professional family entertainer. All children attending require a ticket. For information and tickets click here

Pantomime at the Cliffs Pavilion

A Christmas pantomime is a classic holiday activity, and Cliffs Pavilion in Southend hosts a fantastic annual pantomime every year. This year from 14th December - 5th January expect a production of Jack and the Beanstalk featuring Rylan Clark. It’s the perfect event for families, with plenty of audience interaction, music, and comedy. For information and prices click here

Winter Wonderland at Adventure Island

While Adventure Island is typically a summer destination, the amusement park gets a festive makeover during December with its Winter Wonderland. There are seasonal rides, Christmas music, and themed decorations around the park. It’s a fun way to enjoy the Christmas spirit with family-friendly attractions, including the Winter Wonderland train and a chance to meet Santa. For information and prices click here