Days Out
Guide
Christmas comes early: 8 festive events happening this November
Christmas is here! Well, not really but there are plenty of festive events to enjoy this November
When is it acceptable to start celebrating Christmas? The answer is obviously “whenever you feel like it”, which means we can all start putting the trees up next weekend. But even if you are planning to hold off on the decorations, with so many great festive events taking place this year you’ll need to get a head start on Christmas just to fit it all in.
From childhood classics playing out on stage, to brand-new attractions to explore, there are tonnes of options for anyone who wants to get the party started this month. Cue Mariah Carey…
1. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe – open now
If you want to dip your toe into winter wonderland without fully submersing yourself in jingle bells, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is currently showing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre. Starring Samantha Womack as the White Witch, this major new production of CS Lewis’ classic tale has been wowing audiences on the West End for months, but you don’t have long left to see it for yourself. Step through the wardrobe doors and experience the magic of Narnia before it wraps in January.
2. Jo Malone London presents Glide at Battersea Power Station – from 11 November
In the shadow of London’s newly reopened Battersea Power Station comes Jo Malone London presents Glide – the ultimate festive skating experience. Open to the public from 11 November, enjoy stunning views of the River Thames as you explore the interconnecting rinks all adorned with twinkling lights and an incredible 30ft Christmas tree – the perfect Instagram backdrop.
There’ll also be plenty of festivities to enjoy off the ice for anyone who doesn’t want to spend an hour awkwardly clinging to the railing.
3. Elf the Musical – from 14 November
The best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear. And that’s exactly what you’ll be doing at Elf the Musical (unless you’re a cotton-headed ninny muggins). Starring Tom Chambers, Rebecca Lock and Simon Lipkin, the eight-week run takes place at the Dominion Theatre and is sure to have you laughing, singing, and recharging your Spirit Clausometre.
Embrace your inner Buddy and enjoy the smash hit musical when it returns to the West End this November.
4. A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic – from 18 November
It doesn’t get more festive than A Christmas Carol. Playing at The Old Vic and starring Owen Teale as Ebenezer Scrooge, this smash hit production of the Charles Dickens’ masterpiece has been uniquely adapted for the stage by Jack Thorne to create an immersive experience for audiences unlike any other.
The perfect way to revisit an old favourite, or to introduce a new generation to a classic.
5. Rick Wakeman’s Grumpy Christmas – from 24 November
Almost as traditional as mulled wine, Rick Wakeman returns with his Grumpy Christmas tour. Featuring back-to-back musical entertainment, from much-loved hits to festive covers, Wakeman’s humbug hootenanny is embellished with a story or two to keep everyone from feeling as miserable as he pretends to be.
6. Magic of Christmas with Holiday Inn Express – 26 November
The annual pop celebration is back, now with both evening and matinee shows for audiences. Hosted by Magic Radio’s Harriet Scott and Emma B, expect amazing holiday performances from Blue, Beverley Knight, Roachford, Marisha Wallace, George Ezra, Lemar, Heather Small, James Morrison, Mark Owen, Paloma Faith, and Tom Chaplin.
Like a Christmas tree brimming with baubles, expect this festive bonanza to be bright, flashy and totally unsuitable for cats.
7. Scala Radio Christmas Live – 27 November
The inaugural Scala Radio Christmas Live is the ultimate celebration for West End fans, all hosted by TV presenter Penny Smith. Stars of music and theatre including Michael Ball, Alfie Boe, Anne Dudley, Luke Evans, John Owen-Jones, and Esther Abrami will be treating audiences to festive showstoppers in The London Palladium.
8. Collabro – from 29 November
Collabro hit the road this month with their Farewell Tour, where fans will be able to hear from the quartet’s back catalogue under the Christmas lights. Enjoy stunning vocals and beautiful arrangements as the group revisit some very special memories of their time together. While sure to be an amazing night for Collabro fans, this will also be a great night out for anyone who loves musical theatre. And Britain’s Got Talent. And Christmas.
