Every year, York welcomes in the festive season with spectacular style. Venues and events across the city make a fantastic fuss for us all to enjoy – from Christmas markets and festive shows to lavish decorations and immersive experiences. Here are some of the best places to visit to get into the Christmas spirit.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry

The headline event that has been attracting thousands of visitors to York city centre for over two decades returns: from 14th November to 22nd December, York Christmas Market transforms Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square into a festival of Christmas. Over 70 chalets line the streets selling festive cheers and seasonal treats. Loads of local goodies can be picked up here for those unique gifts, with a mince pie in one hand and a mulled wine in the other. But save some room for some Christmas chocolate, as York’s Chocolate Story is indulging in a festive extravaganza from 1st to 26th December. There’s chocolate making with Santa, a chocolate masterclass, truffle rolling and a Christmas family workshop; irresistible for all ages.

The Best of Christmas Past

The beautiful historic buildings of York are the perfect settings to celebrate a traditional Christmas. Stunning spaces at several of these landmarks are being magnificently decorated to take us back to bygone eras. The history of Treasurer’s House comes to life from 16th November to 18th December with An Inspired Christmas. Witness friendship, gratitude, architectural excellence, design and a floral tribute, all influenced by the man most responsible for restoring and preserving Treasurer’s House, Frank Green. The splendour of Fairfax House is elevated even further by incredible installations influenced by the 18th century and loved in the 21st. From mid November to the end of December you can experience a Georgian Christmas at this wonderfully unique visit. And York Museum Trust show us to the best Victorian Christmas at York Castle Museum from 16th November to 5th January. Outside, Kirkgate twinkles, and come inside to warm up on immersive experiences in the renowned period rooms that are dressed to impress. Plus Victorian carol singers, a Green Father Christmas, and theatre performances bring feasts, games, dancing, songs and joy to everyone.

Perfect Pantomimes

Favourite traditions that come either side of the big day are what gets everyone in the Christmas mood, and surely one of the biggest and best is the festive pantomime. York is home to two of the most beautiful theatres anywhere, and they once again are the unmissable settings for the perfect panto. York Theatre Royal spooks us out with Ghost Stories For Christmas from 25th November to 5th December before the magic carpet ride of Aladdin takes flight from 3rd December to 5th January. Meanwhile, York Opera House brings the enchanting fairytale of Beauty and the Beast to their stage from 7th December to 5th January in a must-see production. The familiar family fun of these ever evolving shows epitomise the Christmas spirit: always different, always the same. Always excellent.