There’s something particularly magical about the city of York at Christmas. Whether you're experiencing the Christmas markets, listening to one of the many amazing carol concerts in the city, watching a panto, or enjoying a hot chocolate in one of York’s many delicious cafes, you're guaranteed to have a lovely, festive time.
Before we know it, we’ll be headed into the New Year with resolutions aplenty, and whether you’re planning on having a low-key start to 2023, or you’re looking for something to do, this edition of What’s On covers events across January too.
So, wrap up warm, enjoy the winter festivities and soak up everything this amazing city has to offer in the coming months. From all of us at What’s On York, here’s wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Image credit: www.visityork.org
FAIR, Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, 10am-7pm. Celebrating 30 years, St Nicholas’ Christmas Fair will see over 70 alpine stalls, each selling various festive crafts, gifts, and delicious treats. For more information, visit www.makeityork.com/ markets/st-nicholas-fair/.
CHRISTMAS, Mother Shipton’s Cave, Knaresborough. Come along for a magical festive family experience at Mother Shipton’s! Pay Santa a visit at his magical Christmas grotto, discover the mystical Cave and make a special Christmas wish at the Wishing Well followed by a yummy hot chocolate in one of the cosy log gazebos. With plenty of things to do, including writing a Santa’s list and preparing a bag of your very own reindeer food. For information on tickets and timings, please visit www. mothershiptons.co.uk.
YORK CHRISTMAS WALKING TOUR, York City Centre, from 4pm, plus selected other times. Discover the history and traditions of Christmas in an extra-special, 90-minute
festive Walking Tour through the Christmas light-bedecked streets of York. Once voted the most festive city, the medieval streets of York echo with the stories of Christmas' past from Roman Saturnalia, and Viking Mid-winter Solstice to Victorian Feasts and more recent traditions. To book, visit www. yorkchristmaswalkingtour.co.uk or call 07956 636 980.
LOTHERTON’S
EXPERIENCE, Lotherton Hall and Estate, Leeds. It’s almost time for those Christmas festivities to begin! Steeped in yuletide magic, come along to Lotherton’s annual Christmas Experience. Meet Santa and his elves, visit Mrs. Claus, decorate
delicious gingerbread, discover the interactive woodland walk with exciting installations and get crafty with Christmas ceramics in the magical North Pole. Booking required. Visit thechristmasexperience. co.uk for more information on prices and tickets.
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INTO THE WOODS: A FAIRYTALE CHRISTMAS, Castle Howard. Come along and feel the spirit of festive magic right here in the heart of North Yorkshire! With a special fairytale Christmas theme, the stately home will be transformed into a magical, woodland wonderland. This year’s festive experience also includes a special appearance by St.Nicholas himself, a storytelling
Information correct at time of publishing but subject to change. Check with venues.
Itching for something to do in York?
Read our handy events and attractions guide covering York and the surrounding areas.CHRISTMAS AT CASTLE HOWARD, Castle Howard Estate.
grotto, plenty of shopping, a deliciously tempting festive afternoon tea, and an after-dark experience featuring beautiful light displays, plus much more. To discover the magic of Christmas at Castle Howard this winter, visit www.castlehoward.co.uk.
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YORKSHIRE’S WINTER WONDERLAND, York Designer Outlet. Skate, play, shop, and dine at York’s festive Winter Wonderland. Featuring one of the biggest outdoor ice rinks in the North, The Ice Factor makes a return. Plus refreshments and festive alpine huts? For more information, visit YorkshiresWinterWonderland. com.
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MISTS AND
FRUITFULNESS EXHIBITION, Kentmere House Gallery. Come and enjoy the latest exhibition at Kentmere House Gallery, open every Thursday evening from 6-9pm and the first weekend of every month from 11-5pm. Please visit kentmerehouse.co.uk for more information.
WINTER HÜTTE, Parliament Street. Step into an Alpine world in the heart of York! The brand-new Winter Hütte brings a two-storey traditional Swiss chalet to Parliament St, with a spectacular upper terrace overlooking the Christmas market. The downstairs bar with its cosy alpine décor and cow bells offers festive drinks and gourmet sausages, while upstairs Yorkshire’s own Michelin-starred chef, Andrew Pern brings a ‘Swisswith-a-Twist’ dining experience.
Happy yodeling! Visit www. winterhütte.co.uk.
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THE BAR CONVENT AT CHRISTMAS, 17 Blossom Street, York. Come and see the Georgian parlour all dressed and ready for Christmas! This winter, the Bar Convent is offering traditional Christmas lunches as well as a special family trail and peace dove display in the 18th Century Hidden Chapel. For more information, please visit barconvent.org.uk.
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CHRISTMAS MARKET, Parsonage Hotel and Spa, 6pm8.30pm. Come along and join the festivities with plenty of local businesses and stallholders to support when browsing and purchasing an array of Christmas gifts. There will also be a glass of mulled wine and delicious mince pies on arrival! For more information, visit www. parsonagehotel.co.uk.
// 3RD-4TH DEC
MIDDLETONS' WREATH WORKSHOPS, Middletons Hotel. Get creative this Christmas and make your own wreath for your home with the talented florists at Fleuradamo York.
3RD DECEMBER 6-8pm. Mulled wine and mince pies included. Tickets priced at £50 per person.
4TH DECEMBER, 12-4pm. Including a glass of champagne on arrival followed by a threecourse Sunday Lunch. £70 per person. To book or for more information contact the Events Manager on 01904 611570 or email events@middletonsyork. co.uk.
// 3RD DEC
CHRISTMAS MARKET AND LIGHT SWITCH ON, Selby Marketplace, 10am-5pm. With food stalls and local crafts, Selby Town Council and York Mix bring you the much anticipated Christmas Market and Light Switch On. With live entertainment, Santa’s sleigh, gift stalls, food and beverages and much more, this is sure to
MALTON CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, Malton Town Centre, 9am-3.30pm. Calling all foodies! Yorkshire’s food capital is back with a huge, two-day Christmas shopping event. With plenty of seasonal food (and nonfood!) stalls, live music and family entertainment, this event is completely free. Come and join the festivities! For more information, go to www. visitmalton.com.
FESTIVAL OF VINTAGE: A VINTAGE CHRISTMAS, York Racecourse, 10.30am- 4.30pm. Immerse yourself in a fun day of vintage shopping, live music, and nostalgic displays, plus a special visit from Father Christmas himself. Free car parking and refreshments are available. For information on tickets, please visit https://festivalofvintage. co.uk/.
SANTA SPECIALS, North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Fun for all the family! Head to Pickering or Grosmont Station for a festive adventure abroad the Santa Express where Mr. Claus and his elves pass through the heritage carriages, giving little ones the chance to meet old St Nick himself, and receive special presents too. Pre-booking is required so to reserve your tickets, visit www.nymr.co.uk.
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MIDDLETONS' SANTA SUNDAY LUNCH, Middletons Hotel. Join Middletons for a three-course
Sunday Lunch with a visit from Santa along with a gift for children under 12 years of age. Adults will receive their own treat with a glass of champagne on arrival. Adult admission is £40 per person and £19.95 per person for children. To make a booking call their Events Manager on 01904 611570 or email events@ middletonsyork.co.uk.
THE MESSAGE OF THE ANGELS CAROL SERVICE, York Minster, 7.30pm. York St John’s annual carol service returns for an evening of festive singing in the stunning setting of York Minster. Doors open at 7pm. To book visit www.yorksj.ac.uk/events or call 01904 876318.
A CRAFTY CHRISTMAS, Bedern Hall, 11am- 12.30pm. Create a stunning wreath for your home this festive season with Katherine Armstrong Bisson. Tickets cost £40 per person to include refreshments, materials and lunch. Please visit www. bedernhall.co.uk.
// 10TH DEC
DECK THE HALL! CHRISTMAS
FAIR, Bedern Hall, 10.30am-4pm. With beautiful decorations by Fleuradamo, visit the beautifully festive hall with its very own mini Christmas Market for gifts, cards and crafts as well as festive beverages and tasty snacks from the cafe. For information on prices, please visit www. bedernhall.co.uk.
YORK’S ANNUAL COMMUNITY
CAROL CONCERT, York Barbican, 2pm. A family-friendly musical event in aid of The Lord Mayor and Sheriff of York’s Christmas Cheer Fund and The Pressnominated charity, Martin House Children’s Hospice. Featuring music from the York Railway Institute Brass Band, Osbaldwick Primary Academy Choir, St Oswald’s CE Primary School Choir, Stamford Bridge Community Choir and Steve Cassidy. For tickets and more information, email ticketing@ yorkbarbican.co.uk or visit yorkbarbican.co.uk.
n The comprehensive guide to what’s on in York
be a festive delight for all of the family!
STEVE
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL, Haxby Sports and Social Club, 8pm. Playing a mix of country, ballads and rock music, Steve Cassidy Band are back and bringing festive cheer this December. Free entry.
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT, Bedern Hall, 7-8pm. A selection of carols sung by Bedern’s quartet followed by seasonal readings. For information on prices, please visit www.bedernhall.co.uk.
COLLIERY BRASS BAND, The Junction, Goole, 3pm. An evening of music, sponsored by the Vale of York Oddfellows. The Oddfellows are one of the oldest non-profit societies in the UK. Through social events, members gain support, advice and develop lasting friendships.With a select number of complimentary tickets available for members and free transport to the venue from York. For further details contact Sarah on 07762352847.
FAIR, Wetherby Racecourse, LS22 5EL. A warm welcome is guaranteed to both dealers and buyers. Set at the site of the wonderful Bramham Hall Exhibition Centre. Free parking and on-site catering are available. For more information on event timings and ticket pricing, visit jaguarfairs.com.
FAIR, York Racecourse from 10.30am-4.30pm. Calling all bookworms! With around 100 exhibitors, come along to purchase various second-hand books, maps, and collectables. There will also be a convenient bus service running to and from the Memorial Gardens coach stop by the railway station. Admission to the fair is £1 per person. For more information, please visit yorkbookfair.com.
WINTER CONCERT, York St John University Creative Centre Theatre, 8pm. Join York's leading chamber orchestra, the Academy of St Olave's, for a concert featuring music by Beethoven, Schubert, and Schumann. Tickets cost £15 per person or £5 for students and children, and proceeds go towards local charity, Jessie's Fund. Tickets can be purchased at the door (subject to availability) or online, via www.academyofstolaves. org.uk.
YORK STAMP & COIN FAIR, York Racecourse, from 10am. Visitors from far and wide are invited to come and browse, purchase and learn about stamps, coins, postal history, banknotes and more. Visit stampshows.net/york-stampcoin-fair.
JEWELLERY,
VALUATION, The Bar Convent, York. A team of valuers from Tennants Auctioneers will be on hand to discuss your antiques, jewellery, watches, collectables and give you a free auction estimate for items you wish to sell. Visit tennants.co.uk for more information.
STOCKTON FORESTERS DRAMA GROUP, Stockton on the Forest Village Hall, 7.30pm. A friendly, fun local amateur theatre group, producing two plays a year. Whether you fancy being
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on stage or helping behind the scenes, they would love to hear from you! For more information, email Holly at dramastockton@ gmail.com or find us on Facebook.
// EVERY WED YOGA WITH NESTOR, Stockton on the Forest Village Hall, 10am. A mixed ability yoga class, beginners welcome. Email nestorportnoy@yahoo.com.
ACOMB LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY, Acomb Church Hall, 10am. Enjoy a guest speaker’s presentation followed by refreshments. Admission is £2 and £1 for members.
WHITE ROSE YORK TOURS, West
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STRICTLY FUN BARN DANCING, Acomb Methodist Church Hall. 2.15-4.30pm. An afternoon of barn and ceilidhstyle social dancing. Admission is £3. For more information call Phil on 01904 783029.
PURELY BALLROOM, Huntington Working Men's Club, 7-8.30pm. Join this friendly beginners' ballroom and Latin dance lesson. Tuition will be focused on the jive, cha cha cha, and waltz up to the Christmas break. Call 07939 336315 or email andy.k.gant@ gmail.com for more information.
// EVERY THURS AND FRI SILVER SWANS BALLET, for over 55s (under 55s also welcome) Huntington Memorial Hall (Thursdays) and St. Mary’s Church Hall, Haxby (Fridays). This gentle ballet class is adapted and age-
appropriate. Get fit, have fun and meet people with a passion for life! Taught by RAD Silver Swans Licensee and director of Jorvik Dance. Call 07725 478479 or visit www.jorvikdance.com for more information.
DARK TALES OF YORK, Book a private tour to explore the narrow streets and alleyways of York and learn about the rich and haunting history that the city has amassed over hundreds and thousands of years. Call 07530 378176 or visit www.darktalesofyork.com.
JORVIK DIG, St Saviourgate. Head down to DIG on St Saviourgate where your little ones can experience a real hands-on archaeological adventure! Visit www.digyork.com.
JORVIK VIKING CENTRE, Coppergate. Discover the Original Viking Encounter! Enjoy the world-famous ride experience with the sights, sounds and smells of the Viking Age, as well as get up close to the ancient artefacts and interact with their friendly real-life Vikings. Visit www. jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk.
Entrance to York Minster meeting point, 11am and 3pm (also 1pm Friday and Saturday). Take a free history tour of the city centre. Visit www.whiteroseyork. com.
YORK LEISURE CENTRE, York Leisure Centre at the York Stadium Leisure Complex at Monks Cross has a great range of activities guaranteed to turn up the fun. From the junior gym, swimming, racquet sports, and clip 'n climb, the whole family will enjoy a range of fun and affordable activities. Visit better. org.uk/york-lc.
YORKSHIRE AIR MUSEUM, Elvington. Explore aircraft from throughout history as well as archive material and documentation and learn all about the world of aviation. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll on the Nature of Flight walk or take a moment to reflect in the Remembrance Garden. Visit yorkshireairmuseum. org.
THEATRE@41
To book, visit tickets.41monkgate.co.uk
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A musical that captured the hearts of audiences across the globe with its inspirational story, based on the memoir of Maria Augusta Trapp during the height of the Second World War. Featuring a trove of cherished songs, including ‘Climb Ev'ry Mountain,’ ‘My Favourite Things’, ‘Do Re Mi’, ‘Sixteen Going on Seventeen’, join Pick Me Up Theatre in this musical masterpiece, this December.
To book, call 0333 009 6690 or visit atgtickets.com.
When Inspector Goole arrives unexpectedly at the home of the wealthy Birling family, news of the death of a young woman shakes the very foundations of their lives. A play of morals and the questioning of consciences, J.B Priestley’s An Inspector Calls, comes knocking at the Grand Opera House this February.
To book, call 01904 623568 or visit www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
Looking to get your live performance fix? York's theatre scene has plenty on offer this month.
Peter Pan. Starring CBeebies’ Maddie Moate as Tinkerbell, this production is set to be a fun family adventure, with plenty of magic, music, and a little bit of mayhem, of course!
To book, call 01904 501935 or visit josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk.
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A unique and hilarious take on the Mother Goose, join Berwick Kaler (and a Wagon Wheel or two), with the wicked David Leonard, side-kick Martin Barrass, principal Suzy Cooper and loveable AJ Powell for this season's Adventures of Old Granny Goose. Sure to be a performance filled with plenty of fun, music and laughter, this is a panto not to be missed.
Featuring three of Charles Dickens’ ghost stories from the holiday season: The Chimes, The Haunted Man, and A Christmas Carol, this production promises to be a holiday delight unlike any other. Set at Christmas time, these gripping tales of goblins, ghouls, and shadows, will have you sitting at the edge of your seats in anticipation.
It’s panto season…oh, yes it is! Co-produced with Evolution Productions, join the talented cast and crew for this year's magical All New Adventures of
A spectacular performance of numerous winter favourites, introduced by Don Pears. With plenty of festive solos, duets, trios, and group songs to make you feel cosy and Christmasready, prepare to be wowed by the vocal talents of the members of local music group, Singphonia.
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Recreating all the greatest hits from one of the world’s favourite 70s bands, 21st Century ABBA takes to the stage this month to deliver the show of the season. Using the latest technologies with fabulous costumes and plenty of flare, this tribute show promises plenty of singing and dancing.
Information correct at time of publishing but subject to change. Check with venues.
Looking for somewhere to eat out in York?
Our food and drink section has got you covered!
We hear from our writer, Emily on her latest food venture
As you approach Ate O’Clock and its iconic arched alley lit with fairy lights, you know you’re in for something pretty magical. After hearing rave reviews following its recent refurbishment, we couldn’t wait to finally go and try this plush restaurant out for ourselves. Our welcome was warm, and whilst we were early, we were asked if we wanted to sit in the adjoining venue, Social 8, for a pre-dinner drink. Sitting down on a blue leather seat, I admire the chilled bar area, which features pretty, floral decor, with hints of gold and vibrant neon lights. The drinks menu is extensive, and after some tricky decision-making, I opt for the Inside Scoop cocktail. Presented in a glass ice cream cone with a dry ice ‘scoop’, the Inside Scoop is a delicious Baileys and raspberry purée -based drink that tastes like something straight out of a Häagen-Dazs tub. Heading into the heated and roofed terrace, a friendly frontof-house member takes us to
our table. An ideal spot to sit in the spring, but perhaps not to everyone's tastes on colder or wetter days. Nevertheless, there is indoor seating available if you wish and the terrace itself appears a pleasant spot to sit and take in the sociable surroundings. The menu is varied with plenty of options to cater to all tastes and dietaries. The Deep-Fried Brie starter catches my eye immediately. Digging my knife into the dish, the melty cheese oozes onto the plate. This is a real treat and tastes delicious with its accompanying honey and fig jam. My usual rule of thumb when it comes to dining out is to try and choose something I might not necessarily cook at home, so I then opt for the Fillet Steak. Served medium rare on request, the fillet is deliciously tender. Whilst getting stuck into my main dish, I enjoy the accompanying coleslaw and juicy, vine cherry tomatoes. Traditionally, the meal also comes with deliciously crispy
looking, hand-cut chunky chips and a sauce of choice, however, the inner northern lass with an undying love for all-things-potato in me, can’t resist asking to try the confit Garlic and Cheese Mash instead (to which the staff are very obliging). My guest simultaneously enjoys the Beef Burger which also comes with the chips, so I can steal a few and enjoy the best of both worlds.
With a stoic determination to attempt pudding, I go for the Chocolate Delice. This mousse-like dish features a rich dark chocolate base - a cocoa-lovers dream. The crunch of the candied orange and the complimenting orange curd is subtle but just enough to contribute hints of citrus to the flavoursome dessert.
If you’re looking for the perfect date night, or are planning a special gathering, Ate O’Clock should certainly be on your list of places to eat this month! For more information, visit www.ateoclock. co.uk.
Keeping the UK fed with hearty roast dinner-inspired dishes since 2004 our family-run business, The York Roast Co. is famed for the worldwide viral sensation .....the YorkyPud™ Wrap, amongst a heap of other delicious mouthfuls including fresh, slowly-roasted meat sandwiches and those all-important classic roast trimmings.
Keeping the UK fed with hearty roast dinner-inspired dishes since 2004 our family-run business, The York Roast Co. is famed for the worldwide viral sensation .....the YorkyPud™ Wrap, amongst a heap of other delicious mouthfuls including fresh, slowly-roasted meat sandwiches and those all-important classic roast trimmings.
Keeping the UK fed with hearty roast dinner-inspired dishes since 2004 our family-run business, The York Roast Co. is famed for the worldwide viral sensation .....the YorkyPud™ Wrap, amongst a heap of other delicious mouthfuls including fresh, slowly-roasted meat sandwiches and those all-important classic roast trimmings.
“Really enjoyed this book. Wonderful short stories. Writer is very imaginative. Really looking forward to his next book.” - Amazon
“Light hearted and pleasant read. A good escape from hum drum chores of the day. Great to read on a lunch break.” - Amazon
