What's On
Who's ready for the start of Panto season?
Oh yes you are!
What's On
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
While the weather outside might be slightly frightful, you’ve made a great choice by deciding to spend your winter in York. After all, is there a more magical way to spend the festive season than wandering down the enchantingly lit medieval streets of our city?
And guess what? There’s even more good news on the horizon. Not only have you picked the best city on earth to spend the month, but you’ve also managed to pick up the one-andonly all-inclusive guide to all that’s happening.
As always, if you’re looking to plan a fun night out, a day’s sightseeing, or anything in-between, the only place to start is in this handy What’s On guide. We’ve gathered all the events, gigs, and theatre shows you need to know about, to have the best winter of your life. Turn to page 7 for the start of our recommendations
December-January 2024/25
York is world-famous for its pantos, so we assume that by now you’re already booked in for yours. Don't worry if not though, as we've got you covered. Check out our theatre guide on page 18-19, which is so extensive that even if you’re not a panto fan, (oh, yes you are! — Sorry couldn’t resist!) you’re still sure to find something that’s to your taste.
So, get reading, because one thing we can promise about this What’s On guide, is that it caters for everyone! - What's On Team
Book Now!
Led by our expert Potions Master, witches and wizards will enjoy a delicious afternoon tea made with fresh ingredients from The Shambles Sausage and Pie Company.
You will learn some of the potion-making secrets of our founder Phileas Fry and have the chance to fly across the Yorkshire Dales in our Broom School with a souvenir video you can show to your friends.
ONE NOT TO MISS: An exhibition of penguin paintings & films
Experience the icy realm of the penguin in a new, unforgettable exhibition of penguin paintings, pencil drawings, photography and film.
Inspired by wildlife artist and BBC documentary filmmaker Robert E Fuller's expeditions to the South Atlantic, this event reflects a lifelong obsession with penguins.
“I absolutely love penguins. I have now been to the South Atlantic twice and its raw, pristine wilderness easily counts as the most amazing place I’ve ever visited.
“From the dramatic landscapes to the sights and smells of so many incredible marine mammals and birds all in one place, the experience of being in this raw, wild place is overwhelming.”
Known for his highly detailed, realistic painting style, Yorkshire artist Robert Fuller goes to extraordinary lengths to record the lives of wild creatures, and this latest exhibition is no exception.
“I’ve just returned from a six week expedition to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the Antarctic. Just getting there was an adventure in itself, with choppy seas and long flight times, but
it was worth it to experience so many special creatures,” said Mr Fuller, whose wildlife films regularly feature on BBC1's The One Show. The new multi-media exhibition brings together paintings, pencil sketches, photographs and films created over several years and includes a new collection of sketches inspired by the artist’s latest Antarctic expedition. Free to visit, the event is both inspirational and educational. Among the cinematographic scenes on show are ones showing thousands of king penguins marching slowly across wide open beaches and short, educational clips explaining the difference between king penguins and rock-hopper penguins and how elephant seals get their names. And to guard against any chance that visitors exposed to so many scenes of ice and wilderness might feel a chill, the artist has laid on free glasses of warmed mulled wine, mince pies and, of course, penguin bar treats, to enjoy as you browse .
With so much wild beauty to enjoy, this promises to be a Christmas day out to remember. Penguins in art and film runs from
Penguins in art & film
The Robert Fuller Gallery, Thixendale, North Yorkshire Nov 30th- Jan 6th
November 30th– January 6th, 2025 at The Robert Fuller Gallery, Thixendale, North Yorkshire, YO17 9LS
Entry is free & there is ample parking on site https://www.robertefuller.com/ pages/exhibition
Events.
3-20 DECEMBER
THE YORKSHIRE YULETIDE VILLAGE, The Guildhall, York. 10am-4pm. Free admission. Explore a unique collection of locally made, design-led gifts made exclusively in the Yorkshire region. Enjoy a magical, festive shopping experience. To learn more about the artists in attendance, head to www. madeinyorkshire.org.uk.
6-8 DECEMBER
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL, Strensall Methodist Church, York. 10am-5pm and 10am4pm respectively. A number of beautiful Christmas trees have been decorated by local organisations and businesses. See them lit-up, sing carols, enjoy refreshments, and check out some lovely festive stalls. Visit Strensall Methodist Church on Facebook for further details.
7 DECEMBER
CHRISTMAS CONCERT — “A GREAT MYSTERY”, Central Hall, University of York. 7.30pm. A musical Christmas celebration. The University Choir and The 24 will perform a programme that includes works by Elgar, Finzi, Vaughan Williams and Victoria. Tickets range from £3-£21. Visit www. yorkconcerts.co.uk to book.
7 DECEMBER
LET’S CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS, St Columba’s URC Church, 32 Priory Street, York. 10am-12pm. A morning of family friendly Christmas activities. Entry and activities are free. Visit ‘St Columba's York United Reformed Church’ on Facebook for more information.
7 - 8 DECEMBER
MALTON CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, Market Place, Malton. A weekend of festive fun in and around Malton’s picturesque Market Place, with delicious food and festive gift stalls, street food, live music from local brass bands and choirs and family entertainment. Head to www.visitmalton.com/ malton-christmas-festival for more info.
9 DECEMBER
YORK CHRISTMAS NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY, 18 Bootham Terrace, York. 6.30-8.30pm. Join a friendly group of like-minded people and learn how to capture exceptional night photos. Beginners and photographers of all abilities are welcome, as an award-winning professional photographer shares his top-tips in a practical and friendly environment. Visit www.walking.photography for more info.
12 DECEMBER
FESTIVE FEAST & TIPPLES, The Hairy Fig Café Bar, Fossgate, York. 7-9pm. Christmas dining experience. Enjoy a Yorkshire Festive Feast Board paired with two Christmas-themed cocktails from AlesandCocktails. Tickets are £33 per person. Call 07934 155516 or email thefigyork@gmail.com to book.
14 AND 21 DECEMBER
BIG CHRISTMAS CONCERT, Q Church, 9 Priory Street, York. 7pm. Step into Christmas with York’s biggest festive musical spectacular. You’ll be greeted by a brass band, then taken on a journey through the Christmas classics. Book from www. igniteconcertsyork.com
16 DECEMBER
SANKTA LUCIA SWEDISH CAROLS, York Minster, 7pm. Free admission but tickets compulsory. Experience the Chorus Pictor Choir from Sweden singing the Swedish Sankta Lucia. Doors open at 6:15pm and ticket holders should be seated by 6:40pm. Head to www.yorkangloscan.org/sanktalucia
15 DECEMBER
THE BELFREY’S ANNUAL CAROL SERVICE, York Minster, 7.30pm. You’re invited to experience the glory of the Christmas story. Enjoy traditional carols combined with moving musical performances in this stunning venue. Not to be missed! Open to all, no booking required. Doors open from 6.45pm. See www.belfrey.org/christmas for details.
19 DECEMBER
BLUE CHRISTMAS, The Belfrey, The De Grey Rooms, St. Leonard’s Place, York. 6.30pm. Feeling low this Christmas? Join this peaceful contemplative service of tranquil carols and readings, for those who might be struggling at this time. All are welcome, no booking required. See www.belfrey.org/christmas for more details.
31 DECEMBER
YORK’S NEW YEAR’S EVE BALL, Merchant Adventurer’s Hall, Fossgate, York. 7pm-1am. A luxurious festive ball in one of York’s most historic buildings. Enjoy great food, drinks, live music and much more as you ‘see in’ 2025. Call 07799693171 or email events@noblehappenings.co.uk to book tickets now.
31 DECEMBER
NEW YEAR’S PARTY, Social 8 Lounge, High Ousegate, York. 7pm-1am. Live music, great food, and more. Tickets are £49 each from www.ateoclock. co.uk/social8-lounge-bar/
UNTIL
1 JANUARY
THE NUTCRACKER TRAIL, various locations, York. York Bid have partnered with local artist Marc Godfrey-Murphy to create 10 fascinating statues dotted around the city. Visit www.theyorkbid.com/ york-nutcracker-trail/ for more information.
11 JANUARY
YORK NATIONAL BOOK FAIR, Knavesmire Suite, York Racecourse. 10.30am-4.30pm. Many exhibitors from leading booksellers around the country will be on hand to show off some truly incredible finds. It’s set to be a dream day-out for the book worms amongst you, as there will be thousands of books on display. Head to www.yorkbookfair.com for more info! Call 01904 623088 for more information.
17-18 JANUARY
YORK STAMP & COIN FAIR, York Racecourse. 10am-5pm. Check out stalls from 70+ stamp and postal history dealers and 50+ coin, banknote and medal dealers. Visitors are welcome to come and browse, make purchases or simply learn more about these fascinating subjects. Visit stampshows.net/ york-stamp-coin-fair/ for more details.
19 JANUARY
THE CRESCENT RECORD FAIR, The Crescent Community Venue. 11:00am - 3:00pm. A small fair with a great selection of vinyl records of many genres. Call 07896713988 for more.
24 JANUARY
BURN’S NIGHT DINNER, Carlton Towers, Goole. 7pm-midnight. You will be greeted by the beautiful sound of bagpipes & the warmth of the roaring fire, before taking your seat for a fabulous 4 course dinner including a dram of whiskey or glass of fizz whilst piping in the haggis. Email info@ carltontowers.co.uk to book.
9 FEBRUARY
SIBELIUS, BLOCH, TCHAIKOVSKY & SHOSTAKOVICH, York Barbican. 3pm. This February concert sees the return of cellist and soloist Jamie Walton. He will perform Shelomo by Ernst Bloch and the 9th Symphony of Dmitri Shostakovich alongside works by both Sibelius and Tchaikovsky. Book tickets from www. yorkguildhallorchestra.com
REGULAR EVENTS
EVERY SUNDAY
DOWN BY THE RIVER, Plonkers Wine Bar, 8.30pm. Head on down to Plonkers Wine Bar every Sunday for an evening of live music in a relaxed atmosphere. Free drink to all performers and all music equipment is provided. To find out more information search Plonkers Wine Bar on Facebook.
EVERY TUESDAY
YORK TAOIST CENTRE, Heworth Holy Trinity Church Hall, York. 7-8.15pm. Weekly Tai Chi and Dao yoga classes in York. Contact Phil on 07921100188 to ask any questions you might have before you start.
DAILY
SOCIAL YORKIES IVC, This member-run club hosts around 20 events each month — activities include walks, meals out, pub quizzes, and club parties! Book your yearly membership for just £20! Call 07922 558483 or visit yorkivc.club for more information.
DON’T MISS THE CHANCE TO MEET SANTA!
6-23 DECEMBER
SLEDMERE’S MAGICAL SANTA EXPERIENCE, Sledmere, Driffield. Weekends: 9.15am - 5.30pm, Weekdays: 10am - 5.40pm. This Christmas at Sledmere you can enjoy an immersive actor-led walk through the house and grounds. Named “The First Snowflake”, during the experience you’ll meet several festive characters before coming face-toface with Santa in his grotto, where little ones will receive a pressie! Call 01377 455198 or visit www. sledmerehouse.com/events/details/santas-grotto to book tickets.
7 DECEMBER
NABURN CHRISTMAS BAZAAR, Naburn Village Hall, York. 1-5pm. Enjoy festive food, stalls, a tombola, kiddy crafts, games, and much more. Santa will also be at his Grotto, where children can meet him and get a present each. It costs £5 per child to meet Santa. There is a No. 42 Arriva Bus running from Piccadilly making access to Naburn from the centre of York easy. Head to www.naburnvillage.org/ whatson for more info about the Bazaar.
7-22 DECEMBER
SANTA’S GROTTO AT BEETLE BANK, Beetle Bank Farm, Moor Lane, Murton, York. 10am-4pm. Go and see Santa in his magical grotto. Each child will have a one-on-one experience with Santa, and before you leave, your child can choose an early present of their choice! While there make sure to spend time with all the animals too. Head to www. beetlebankopenfarm.co.uk for more details.
8 DECEMBER
A grotto in a Dakota aircraft. Children can enjoy activities with Santa’s elves before boarding a ‘flight’ to the North Pole, to meet the man himself and receive a gift. Book from yorkshireairmuseum. digitickets.co.uk
EVERYDAY UNTIL 21 DECEMBER
MOTHER SHIPTON’S CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE, Prophecy Lodge, Harrogate Rd, High Bridge, Knaresborough. 9.30am-5.30pm. A perfect day out for the whole family at an iconic Yorkshire location. Step into a world of magic in the winter woodland before Chief Elf Chestnut leads your little ones to the grotto to meet Santa. Head to www. mothershipton.co.uk to book your tickets before they all sell out.
ROTARY YORK AINSTY’S SANTA SLEIGH
VISIT, Various locations across York. Santa will be passing through the streets of York while collecting donations for the York Rotary Club. Head to www. rotary-york-ainsty.uk for the dates, times and streets he’ll be passing through.
UNTIL 23 DECEMBER
CITY CRUISES SANTA EXPERIENCE, The Boatyard, Lendal Bridge, York. Get ready for an extraordinary Christmas adventure aboard City Cruises, you’ll even be joining Santa himself. The children get the opportunity to write their letters to Santa, get a personalised present, a gift bag full of Christmas goodies. Visit www.cityexperiences.com to book now.
UNTIL 24 DECEMBER
SANTA SPECIALS AT THE NYMR, North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Park Street, Pickering. A Christmas rail adventure. Starting off at the beautifully decorated Picking Station, visitors will be welcomed with the warm twinkly lights, real Christmas trees and the joyful sounds of some classic Christmas carols. Visit www.nymr.co.uk to confirm your spot now.
UNTIL 5 JANUARY
SANTA’S GROTTO, Blueberry Pop Up Shop, 109 Walmgate, York. 10am-3.30pm. £5 per child. All will receive a lovingly-handmade gift. Book online from Ticket Source.
14-23 DECEMBER
SANTA AIRLINES, Yorkshire Air Museum, Elvington.
A CHRISTMAS MOUSTERY, Fairfax House, York. 9am-5pm. Hundreds of mice will once again descend on Fairfax House this Christmouse. It is Christmas morning, and the family have awoken to discover the famous Fairfax Ruby has been stolen by the dastardly Highway Mouse, but he did not act
A great mystery
Programme includes:
Elgar A Christmas Greeting
Finzi In Terra Pax
Vaughan Williams Fantasia on Christmas Carols
Victoria O magnum mysterium
Saturday 7 December 2024, 7.30pm
Central Hall, University of York
Tickets: £3 to £21 Find
alone. Visitors will need to play detective to discover who helped commit the crime. Head to www. fairfaxhouse.co.uk for more details.
UNTIL 5 JANUARY
ALICE’s CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND
AT CASTLE HOWARD.
Alice is planning a huge Christmas party, and she invites you to follow the White Rabbit through Castle Howard’s grand halls and regal rooms with each twist and turn revealing fanciful festive surprises. Head to www.castlehoward.co.uk/ whats-on/christmas-at-castle-howard to book.
EVERYDAY ATTRACTIONS
ART EXHIBITION: THE BOTANICAL WORLD OF MARY DELANY, Reddihough Galleries, Beningbrough Hall, York. An exhibition celebrating eighteenth-century artist, Mary Delany, presented in partnership with the British Museum. Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/beningbrough.
A WINTER ADVENTURE AT JORVIK, Copperagte, York. Viking-age Coppergate has had a snowy make-over for the first time in its 40-year history. Guests will be introduced to the archaeology of the Coppergate site and will hear how it might provide clues as to how York's Viking residents cared for their livestock, fed themselves and kept warm during the colder winter months. Book tickets from www. jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk
PENGUINS IN ART & FILM, The Robert Fuller Gallery, Thixendale, North Yorkshire. A penguinthemed exhibition by wildlife artist and BBC filmmaker Robert E. Fuller. Inspired by expeditions to South Georgia and the Antarctic, the event includes penguin art, photography and film, and reflects the artist’s lifelong obsession with penguins. Visit www. robertefuller.com/pages/exhibition for more.
DARK TALES OF YORK, Book a private tour to explore the narrow streets of York and learn about the rich and haunting history that the city has amassed over thousands of years. Call 07530 378176 or visit www.darktalesofyork.com.
THE ART OF WALLPAPER: MORRIS & CO, at
York Art Gallery until February 2025, this exhibition is a celebration of the life and creations of one of the greatest artistic craftsmen in English history, William Morris. Head to www.yorkartgallery.org.uk to check out their event programme.
THE HILT, 57B Goodramgate York. An axe throwing venue offering eight lanes for aspiring Vikings to either be coached or to take part in axe throwing tournaments. More info at www.thehilt.co.uk.
THE HOLE IN WAND, Coppergate ShoppingCentre, York. Visit the world’s most magical golf course and enjoy a Wizarding adventure as you vie for golfing superiority against friends! To find out more information or to book, please visit www. theholeinwand.com/york.
WIZARD AFTERNOON TEA, The Potions Academy, Shambles, York. Why not try out ‘York’s most unusual Afternoon Tea?” Led by the Potions Master, witches and wizards will enjoy a delicious afternoon tea with all ingredients from Europe’s most photographed street. You'll also get the chance to learn some potion secrets and then end the session with a flight at their Broom School. Head to www.thepotionscauldron. com/academy/wizard-afternoon-tea
WHITE ROSE YORK TOURS, Meet at the West Entrance to York Minster, 11am. Take a free history tour of the city centre. Visit www.whiteroseyork.com or call 07792 207679.
WIZARD WALK OF YORK, The Shambles. Explore the enchanting historical city on a mission to locate magical creatures. Ideal for children aged between five and ten years old, there are several evening days available; reserve your spot online at www. wizardwalkofyork.com.
Have you got an event to shout about?
Did you know you can upload your event to our website for free? Visit: yourlocallink.co.uk/add-listing
Theatre.
Grand Opera House: To book, call 0333 009 6690 or visit atgtickets.com.
7 DECEMBER - 5 JANUARY
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. A showstopping production of family favourite show Beauty and the Beast will be live at Grand Opera House York. It stars Dani Harmer as Fairy Bon Bon!
10 JANUARY
AUSTENTATIOUS. A Jane Austen-inspired West End smash hit show. For one delightful evening only, the cast will improvise a hilarious new Jane Austen novel, inspired entirely by a title from the audience!
12 JANUARY
THE NUTCRACKER. Ballet set to Tchaikovsky’s music. When Clara is gifted a Nutcracker doll who magically comes to life, an enchanting adventure unfolds; a dramatic battle with the Mouse King ensues, and dancing snowflakes fill the stage.
25 JANUARY
A MILLION DREAMS. Experience the world’s most popular musical theatre songs performed by York’s top talent. All profits go to The Snappy Trust, ‘dedicated to maximising the personal development of children and young people with wide ranging disabilities’.
York Theatre Royal: To book, call 01904 623568 or visit www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk.
UNTIL 5 DECEMBER
GHOST STORIES FOR CHRISTMAS. James Swanton — The Telegraph’s ‘scariest man on TV this Christmas’— will bring Charles Dickens’ scariest stories to life.
3 DECEMBER - 5 JANUARY
ALADDIN. Whatever you’re doing right now, stop. Theatre Royal's Christmas panto is here and you need a ticket. Get ready for an evening of catchy tunes, dazzling costumes, and plenty of laughs.
24 JANUARY
AN EVENING WITH SIMON ARMITAGE AND LYR . A unique evening of poetry and music featuring Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and his band LYR.
28 JANUARY - 1 FEBRUARY
STEWART LEE VS THE MAN-WULF. The award-winning comedian Stewart Lee comes to York. The show explores Lee's journey to come to terms with his changing status and age.
Theatre 41@ Monkgate: Book tickets from tickets.41monkgate.co.uk
5 DECEMBER
SOME VOICES: CHRISTMAS CRACKERS BY CANDLELIGHT. A concert full of modern festive classics. Expect music from The Beatles, Robbie Williams, and more.
17-30 DECEMBER
OLIVER TWIST. A new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ iconic story is coming to York this Christmas. Follow Oliver as he sinks into London’s grimy underworld on his search for a family.
York Barbican. Head to www.yorkbarbican.co.uk or call 01904 676332 to book tickets.
10 DECEMBER
CHRISTMAS WITH ANTON DU BEKE. Everyone's favourite Strictly never-winner is coming to York this Christmas. Join Anton, his live band, vocalists, and team of dancers for a dynamic evening of festive fun.
12 DECEMBER
THE RAT PACK AT CHRISTMAS. An evening of festive classics, including White Christmas, Baby It’s Cold Outside, The Christmas Song and Let It Snow, plus all-time favourites including Mack the Knife, That’s Amore, Mr Bojangles and New York, New York.
15 DECEMBER
YORK’s ANNUAL COMMUNIUTY CAROL CONCERT. York’s finest music makers will come together in aid of the Lord Mayor and Sheriff of York’s Christmas Cheer Fund and York Hospital Radio.
20 DECEMBER
LAUGH OUT LOUD COMEDY CLUB
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL. Live stand-up comedy show. Each show includes hilarious comedians from television’s top shows. Seating is unreserved and given out on a first-come, first-served basis.
18 JANUARY
MAN IN THE MIRROR - A TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON . Relive all of Michael Jackson's greatest hits, inclduing the likes of "Thriller," "Billie Jean," "Beat It," "Smooth Criminal," and of course, "Man in the Mirror."
Joseph Rowntree Theatre To book, call 01904 501 935 or email boxoffice@jrtheatre.co.uk.
20-21 DECEMBER
SHEPHERD GROUP CHRISTMAS CONCERT. A Christmas spectacular of brass music. The grand finale will be absolutely unmissable with over 100 musicians set to take the stage.
22 DECEMBER
ELVIS: CHRISTMAS SPECIAL - TRIBUTE BY STEVE KNIGHT. A musical journey through the hits that defined a generation.
24-25 JANUARY
ROBIN HOOD. Nottingham cowers under the grip of the evil Sheriff of Nottingham. Can Robin and the Merry Men set them free?
yorkguildhallorchestra.com
Sunday 9 February 2025, 3pm
Sibelius, Bloch, Tchaikovsky & Shostakovich
Sibelius Karelia Suite
Bloch Shelomo
Tchaikovsky Romeo and Juliet
Shostakovich Symphony No.9 in E flat
Jamie Walton
Cello
Simon Wright Conductor
Fiona Love
Leader
7 & 8 December 9am - 3.30pm
STREAMLINE
EVENTS HOTLIST
UNTIL 6 JANUARY
PENGUINS IN ART & FILM, The Robert Fuller Gallery, Thixendale, North Yorkshire. A penguinthemed exhibition by wildlife artist and BBC filmmaker Robert E. Fuller. Inspired by expeditions to South Georgia and the Antarctic, the event includes penguin art, photography and film, and reflects the artist’s lifelong obsession with penguins. Visit www.robertefuller.com/ pages/exhibition for more.
3 DECEMBER- 5 JANUARY
ALADDIN, York Theatre Royal. Don’t miss the start of panto season! CBeebies and CBBC star Evie Pickerill features as the Spirit of the Ring while Robin Simpson returns as the hilarious Dame Dolly, and Paul Hawkyard steps into the shoes of the wicked Abanazar. Get ready for an evening of catchy tunes, dazzling costumes, and plenty of laughs. Visit www.yorktheatreroyal. co.uk/show/aladdin/ to book.
7 - 8 DECEMBER
MALTON CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, Market Place, Malton. Malton’s magnificent two-day Christmas festival is here and there’s free entry for all. A weekend of festive fun in and around Malton’s picturesque Market Place, with delicious food and festive gift stalls, street food, live music from local brass bands and choirs and family entertainment. Malton’s shops will be packed with Christmas gift ideas too - stay a while longer and explore the many charming streets across the town on your visit. Head to www.visitmalton.com/maltonchristmas-festival for more info.
12 DECEMBER
THE RAT PACK AT CHRISTMAS, York Barbican, 7.30pm. An evening of festive classics, including White Christmas, Baby It’s Cold Outside, The Christmas Song and Let It Snow, plus alltime favourites including Mack the Knife, That’s Amore, Mr
Bojangles and New York, New York. What better way to kickstart your festive celebrations?! Head to www.yorkbarbican.co.uk/ whats-on to book your ticket.
17-30 DECEMBER
OLIVER TWIST, Theatre 41 @ Monkgate, York. Local theatre company Pick Me Up Theatre are putting on a new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ iconic story this Christmas. Born in a workhouse. Sold into an apprenticeship. Recruited by Fagin’s band of pickpockets and thieves. Attendees will follow Oliver as he sinks into London’s grimy underworld on his search for a home, a family and love. A story of courage and adversity,
Oliver Twist is a classic tale that touches us all, with a large dose of Christmas cheer and festive sparkle! Make sure you don’t miss out by picking up tickets from www.pickmeuptheatre. com/oliver-twist
11 JANUARY
YORK NATIONAL BOOK FAIR, Knavesmire Suite, York Racecourse. 10.30am-4.30pm. Many exhibitors from leading booksellers around the country will be on hand to show off some truly incredible finds. It’s set to
UNTIL 5 JANUARY
ALICE’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND AT CASTLE HOWARD. This one needs no introduction. One of the most anticipated events of the year is upon us as Castle Howard have announced the theme for their much-loved Christmas showcase, and it’s none other than Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland! Alice is planning a huge Christmas party, and she invites you to follow the White Rabbit through Castle Howard’s grand halls and regal rooms with each twist and turn revealing fanciful festive surprises. Head to www. castlehoward.co.uk/whats-on/ christmas-at-castle-howard to book tickets.
YORK CONCERTS’ DECEMBER PROGRAMME
All will be performed at the Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall, Campus West, University of York. Head to www.yorkconcerts.co.uk or call 01904 322439 to book tickets.
4 DECEMBER
QUATUOR DIOTIMA,
7.30PM. Quatuor Diotima's rich discography contains a plethora of award-winning recordings including their disc of Janáček’s electrifying quartets. The programme also features Beethoven’s Quartet no. 13 in B-flat and his epic Grosse Fuge.
7 DECEMBER
UNIVERSITY CHOIR,
7.30PM. Experience Elgar’s A Christmas Greeting, Finzi's magical choral poem In Terra Pax and Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carol. The programme also features three very different settings of O magnum mysterium.
be a dream day-out for the book worms amongst you, as there will be thousands of books on display. Head to www.yorkbookfair. com for more info! Call 01904 623088 for more information.
8 DECEMBER
THE SNOWMAN, 2PM, 4PM, AND 6PM. Raymond Briggs’ magical Christmas story, The Snowman, returns to York this festive season with live music by the Shepherd Brass Band.
14 DECEMBER
YORKSHIRE BACH CHOIR, 7.30PM. A musical feast as Yorkshire Bach Choir and Yorkshire Baroque Soloists join forces for an unmissable trio of festive works! Bach’s Magnificat, Cantata ‘Unser Mund sei voll Lachens’, and Cantata ‘Gloria in excelsis Deo’ will be performed.
GIGGUIDE DECEMBER
THU, DEC 5
Vintage Rhythms
Dringhouses Sports Club
1pm-3.30pm
Pip Blom + Tom Sharkett
The Crescent Community Venue
7.30pm
Yutaniii + ATKRTV + Cherry Fuzz Club
The Fulford Arms
7.30pm
Black Swan Folk Club
The Black Swan Inn, 8pm
Bad Saloon
Golden Ball, 8pm
Acoustic Sessions
Black Horse, 9pm
FRI, DEC 6
The Company You Keep
FortyFive Vinyl Cafe, 7pm
The Bootleg Beatles
York Barbican
7.30pm SAT, DEC 7
Andrew Clegg
The Waterfront Café
5.30pm-7.45pm
Jack Sabbath
The York Vaults
7.30pm SUN, DEC 8
Glampyre
The Edinburgh Arms, 4pm
The Mothers
Severus Social Club, 5.30pm
Marc Atkinson
The Golden Slipper
6pm Gasoline and Matches
FortyFive Vinyl Cafe, 7.30pm
TUE, DEC 10
Michael Head & The Red Elastic Band + Paul Molloy
The Crescent Community Venue, 7.30pm WED, DEC 11
Moose Knuckle + Perennial + JUKU
The Fulford Arms
7.30pm THU, DEC 12
Louis Louis Louis Dringhouses Sports Club
1pm-3.30pm
The Hyde Family Jam Festive Fiesta
The Crescent Community Venue, 7.30pm Sun King
The Fulford Arms
7.30pm FRI, DEC 13
Tri-Starrs
Kennedy’s, 7pm The Hyde Family Jam Festive Fiesta
The Crescent Community Venue, 7.30pm SAT, DEC 14
Tri-Starrs
The Crooked Tap
8pm
Definitely Maybeez
Severus Social Club, 8.30pm
Jimbo Doomface
The Three Tuns
9pm
The Young Ones
The Edinburgh Arms, 9pm
SUN, DEC 15
Four Chord Chaos
Severus Social Club, 5.30pm
Mostly Autumn
The Crescent Community Venue, 6.30pm Midnight Flyers
The Snickleway 8pm
TUE, DEC 10
Kate Rusby
York Barbican, 7pm THU, DEC 19
Jim Wright’s Rhythm
Deluxe Dringhouses Sports Club
1pm-3.30pm
Benjamin Francis Leftwich
National Centre for Early Music
7pm
Bad Saloon
The Phoenix Inn
8.30pm Acoustic Sessions
The Black Horse
9pm FRI, DEC 20
Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours & Paul
Simon’s Graceland
York Barbican, 7pm
Jasmine Lowe
The Fulford Arms
7.30pm SAT, DEC 21
WINTER PICKS *
27 DECEMBER
BLURZ — A TRIBUTE TO BLUR, York
Burton Lane Sports and Social Club, 7pm-11.30pm. Having moved from York Vaults on Nunnery Lane at the start of the month, go along and see Ultimate Gig’s first show at their new home! Get tickets from www.ultimategig.co.uk
8 FEBRUARY
TOM HINGLEY & THE KAR-PETS, York Burton Lane Sports and Social Club, 7pm-11.30pm. Starring ex-Inspiral Carpets frontman Tom Hingley, the Kar-pets will be performing the bands biggest hits from the last 30 years including This Is How It Feels, Saturn 5 and more. Support by Urban Times. Get tickets from www.ultimategig.co.uk
The Apocalypse Disco + Fendry + Elekdead
The Fulford Arms
7.30pm Pet Shop Boys Actually Bishopthorpe Sports & Social Club, 7:30pm
That Guy Called Si The Three Tuns 9pm SUN, DEC 22
The Motives
Tang Hall Club, 4pm
Shed Seven Acoustic Huntington Working Men’s Club, 7pm Jonny And The Dunebugs
The Crescent Community Venue, 7.30pm
FRI, DEC 27
The Herbs + Victory Samosa
The Fulford Arms
7.30pm SAT, DEC 28
Chaos Bleak +
All My Thorns + IAmImperfect + Doberwoman + Black Rain
The Fulford Arms
7.30pm
The Absolute Stone Roses
Bishopthorpe Sports & Social Club, 7:30pm
Tri-Starrs
The Hop 9pm
Jimbo Doomface
The Three Tuns 9pm
Make friends, have fun ! York based club
The perfect way to celebrate Christmas 2024 Christmas party menu, Old Liquor Store style! Available for 2-50 people. Pre-ordering essential. For bookings of 8 or more people, please either give us a call or email on: hello@theoldliquorstore.co.uk Ring in the New Year with a fabulous 6 course dinner - download the menu from our website.
Set in the grade 2 listed former Terry’s chocolate factory. W: theoldliquorstore.co.uk T: 01904 950147 E: hello@theoldliquorstore.co.uk