FUN SEASONAL ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES

See the Top Local Christmas Carol Services, Music Concerts, Festive Shows, and Pantomimes

Near Ripon, Thirsk, Knaresborough, Boroughbridge, Easingwold, Bedale, Masham, and beyond


Christmas Carols, Live Music Concerts, Festive Shows, Services, Nativities, and Pantomimes

Browse Ure Life’s list of festive music concerts, Christmas carol services, seasonal shows, and pantos

If you’re searching for the most magical Christmas carol services, concerts, festive shows and pantomimes near Ripon, Thirsk, Easingwold, Knaresborough, Bedale, and Boroughbridge, you’re in exactly the right place. The festive season is one of the most heart-warming times of year across North Yorkshire, and our market towns pull out all the stops with enchanting performances for all ages. From candlelit carol services in beautiful village churches to big-stage pantos packed with laughter, music and festive sparkle, there’s something to delight every family member.

This guide gathers the very best Christmas performances happening across Ripon, Easingwold, Boroughbridge and the surrounding towns and villages, making it easy for you to plan memorable seasonal outings. Whether you love traditional choirs, brass band concerts, lively children’s theatre, or classic pantomime adventures, you’ll find a full roundup of events to get you into the festive spirit. Many of these shows sell out quickly, so use this guide to book early and make the most of your Christmas celebrations in North Yorkshire.

Sun 23 Nov 2025 at 2.00 pm

Easingwold Players Presents Robin Hood

The Galtres Centre, Easingwold

Get into the festive spirit early by joining Robin and his merry men at this family-friendly, community pantomime event.
Easingwold

Find out more

Sun 23 Nov 2025 at 2.00 pm

Afternoon Tea & Christmas Carols

Grantley Hall, near Ripon

Arrive to a welcoming glass of Champagne in our exclusive Grantley Suite, then relax and enjoy an afternoon tea accompanied by the Northern String Quartet and some enchanting carols.
Ripon

Find out more

Thu 27 Nov – Sat 6 Dec 2025, Thursdays to Saturdays.

The Snow Queen ‘A Frozen Adventure’

Coronation Hall, Boroughbridge

The Snow Queen, A Frozen Adventure! This winter, join The Hightimers for a frosty, funny, and heart warming pantomime that’s perfect for kicking off the festive season — The Snow Queen! Gerda and Kai have grown up together as the best of friends — but as they begin to realise their feelings run deeper, fate takes a frosty turn. When Kai is swept away by the icy-hearted Snow Queen, Gerda sets out on a daring journey to bring him home. Along the way, she’s joined by a cast of colourful characters, including our fabulous Dame and her well-meaning son Olaf — who might be in for a chilly surprise! Expect penguin-powered pandemonium from the hilarious duo Chilly and Willy, toe-tapping tunes, dazzling costumes, and all the traditional panto fun you know and love — with a snowy twist! Evening shows start at 7.30 pm and Saturday matinees start at 2.00 pm.
Boroughbridge

Find out more

Fri 28 Nov – Sat 29 Nov 2025

The Adventures of The-Not-So-Sleeping Beauty!

Spofforth Village Hall

Welcome to the Spofforth Village Pantomime! Join the Spofforth Panto as it returns for a night of laughter, fun, and entertainment. Our talented local performers will bring a new twist to this classic fairy tale. Get ready to cheer for your heroes, and sing along with the catchy tunes. Perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy a contemporary pantomime experience. Evening shows start at 7.30 pm, with the Saturday matinee beginning at 2.30 pm.
Wetherby

Find out more

Sat 29 Nov – Sun 28 Dec 2025

Music in the Abbey

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

From 2.00 – 3.00 pm every day, the Abbey will be glow with all the colours of the rainbow. The ruins will be filled with festive music from local live bands and choirs.
Ripon

Find out more
Mon 1 Dec 2025

The Enormous Christmas Pudding! by Story Craft Theatre

York Explore Library and Archive

Have you ever seen a Christmas Pudding that was big..really big…really REALLY BIG? In this brand-new festive show, be prepared for one ENORMOUSLY fantastic creation. Based on a classic folk tale, this accessible production is enriched with visual storytelling; including puppetry, shadow puppetry and Makaton throughout, with an enchanting musical score and a strong message of the powers of teamwork. Aimed at 2-8 years. 45 minutes long. Show runs between 10.30 am – 11.15 am.
York

Find out more
Wed 3 Dec 2025

The Enormous Christmas Pudding! by Story Craft Theatre

Queen Mary’s School, Topcliffe

Have you ever seen a Christmas pud bigger than you? In this fun, festive show, be prepared for one ENORMOUSLY fantastic creation. Based on a classic folk tale, this accessible production is enriched with visual storytelling; including puppetry, shadow puppetry and Makaton throughout, with an enchanting musical score and a strong message of the powers of teamwork. Aimed at 2-8 years. 45 minutes long. Show runs between 10.30 am – 11.15 am.
Thirsk

Find out more
Fri 5 Dec at 8.00 pm

The Scrooge Diaries

Grewelthorpe Village Hall, Near Masham

In this revelatory exclusive, Ebeneezer Scrooge opens his Diary to expose the awful truth about Tiny Tim, the Fezziwigs, Jacob Marley, and that disgustingly jolly, gluttonous, consumer-driven Ghost of Christmas Present, as he reveals the truth behind a Christmas Carol and the vengeful, slanderous, upstart author of that novel. A wickedly wild and witty play suitable for ages 14+.
Masham

Find out more
Fri 5 Dec 2025

Christmas By Candlelight

Ripon Cathedral

A candlelit concert featuring festive classics performed by professional vocalists.
Ripon

Find out more
Sat 6 Dec 2025

G4 Christmas Music Concert

Ripon Cathedral

G4 bring glad tidings of great joy this festive season as they welcome the incredible Michael Conway into the fold for his debut G4 tour alongside Jon, Mike and Duncan, taking you on a breathtaking musical journey with beautifully-blended voices, within an idyllic sacred setting.
Ripon

Find out more

Sat 6 Dec, Sun 7 Dec, Sat 13 Dec, Sun 14 Dec, Fri 19 Dec – Wed 24 Dec 2025

Santa’s Grotto in the Boathouse by Story Craft Theatre

Castle Howard, York

The warm and wonderful Story Craft Theatre return to Castle Howard with a fabulous festive show in Santa’s cosy Boathouse Grotto. Santa himself will join the fun, with a gift for each child with a ticket. Tickets for this event will need to be added to a to Christmas at Castle Howard Wonderful Wizard of Oz ticket or a Gardens ticket, as it cannot be purchased alone.
York

Find out more

Sun 7 Dec and Sun 14 Dec 2025

Carols by Candlelight Services

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

This year we’ll be hosting these from inside the beautiful St Mary’s Church in the deer park. Soak in the festive atmosphere and sing along to traditional carols led by Ripon City Band as the candlelight flickers around the colourful surroundings. The event happens at 2.00 pm – 3.00 pm and tickets must be pre-booked via the website.
Ripon

Find out more
Sun 7 Dec and Sun 14 Dec 2025

Carols Around the Christmas Tree

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

Grab a hot chocolate to warm your pipes and sing along to some festive favourites around the glittering Christmas Tree in the courtyard from 11.00 am – 12.00 pm. Th live choirs performing are Spa Sax on 7th December and Ripon Trinity Singers on 14th December.
Ripon

Find out more
Thu 11 Dec 2025

Lyrics and Lights: Musical Afternoon Tea and Light Trail

Swinton Park Estate

Indulge in a festive afternoon tea whilst listening to the soulful voice of singer Simon Turner and enjoying the festive, firelit atmosphere. Follow this with a wander through the grounds of the Swinton Estate with its wintery glowing installations and illuminated woodlands.
Masham

Fri 12 Dec 2025

Bublé Christmas By Candlelight

Ripon Cathedral

A tribute show celebrating Michael Bublé’s Christmas hits with live band accompaniment.
Ripon

Find out more

Sat 13 Dec, Sun 14 Dec, Sat 21 Dec, Sun 22 Dec 2025

When Robins Appears by Next Door But One

York Explore Library and Archive

The show is high-energy, packed with catchy songs, an enchanting design and plenty of audience interaction – it’s a festive celebration that gently explores big feelings around change, loss, friendship and what really makes unforgettable moments! When Robins Appears is perfect for 7-11 year olds and their families. Brought to you by Next Door But One.
York

Find out more

Mon 15 Dec 2025

When Robins Appears by Next Door But One

Tang Hall Explore York

When Robins Appear follows two friends, facing big changes like moving house, starting new schools and a first Christmas without grandma. With the help of a magical robin, Ellis and Lowen are whisked away on a joyful journey through their favourite wintery memories! From festive food and colourful fairy lights, to joyful songs and thoughtful gifts, they soon discover that the real sparkle of Christmas isn’t found under the tree — it’s in the laughter, love and unforgettable moments we share together and that can live forever in our hearts. Ideal for 7-11 year olds and their families.
York

Find out more

Thu 18 Dec at 7.00 pm

Carols in the Courtyard

The Golden Fleece, Thirsk

The courtyard will come alive with festive cheer as the Thirsk Royal British Legion Band fills the air with beautiful Christmas carols. A free event, one-hour event with mince pies, mulled wine, and hot chocolate on offer.
Thirsk

Find out more
Thu 18 Dec 2025

When Robins Appears by Next Door But One

Clifton Explore Library, York

The show is high-energy, packed with catchy songs, an enchanting design and plenty of audience interaction – it’s a festive celebration that gently explores big feelings around change, loss, friendship and what really makes unforgettable moments! When Robins Appears is perfect for 7-11 year olds and their families. Brought to you by Next Door But One.
York

Find out more

Fri 19 Dec 2025

Jack and the Beanstalk: The Christmas Show by Same Difference Arts

Thirsk Town Hall

Join the hilarious cast of larger-than-life characters as they embark on a thrilling journey packed with mischievous villains, daring heroes, dazzling costumes, and toe-tapping songs.
Thirsk

Find out more
Sat 20 Dec 2025

Jack and the Beanstalk: The Christmas Show by Same Difference Arts

Beckwithshaw Village Hall

At 7.00 pm, expect plenty of slapstick comedy, outrageous fun, and, of course, a sprinkle of fairy tale magic in this spectacular Christmas story for the whole family. Suitable for ages 3+ years. 60 minute duration.
Harrogate

Find out more
21 Dec 2025

Christmas Carol Concert – Cathedral Choir & St Cecilia Orchestra

Ripon Cathedral

An evening of carols and festive orchestral music performed by the Cathedral Choir and Orchestra.
Ripon

Find out more

22 Dec 2025

Leyburn Band Christmas Concert & Fireworks

Tennants Garden Rooms, Leyburn

A festive Christmas concert performed by Leyburn Band, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
Leyburn
Find out more
23 Dec 2025

Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols

Ripon Cathedral

Traditional Christmas service combining Bible readings and carols in the stunning cathedral setting.
Ripon

Find out more

24 Dec 2025

Journey To Bethlehem

Ripon Cathedral

A family-friendly nativity event retelling the Christmas story with music and participation.
Ripon

Find out more

Sun 28 Dec 2025 at 1.00 pm

Jack and the Beanstalk: The Christmas Show by Same Difference Arts

Tunstall Village Hall, Near Catterick

Join Same Difference as they go on a family-friendly matinee adventure into the Christmas story of Jack and the Beanstalk. Jack and his mum’s cafe is no longer doing as well as it used to. Jack’s mum needs a new unique selling point to draw in more customers. With Jack’s best friend, a fairy called Fair-enough, the two try to develop her magic skills to help solve the problem, but it doesn’t always go to plan!
Bedale

Find out more
Sun 28 Dec 2025 at 7.00 pm

Jack and the Beanstalk: The Christmas Show by Same Difference Arts

Shipton by Beningborough Community Centre, Near York
A family-friendly, 60-minute show based around the famous story. Jack decides to climb the mysterious beanstalk and go on an adventure to solve all his family and friends’ problems once and for all and maybe save Christmas.
York

Find out more
31 Dec 2025

Watchnight Service

Ripon Cathedral

A reflective service to welcome the New Year with prayer and song.
Ripon

Find out more

31 Dec 2025 – 2 Jan 2026

New Year’s Eve House Soiree at Grantley Hall

Grantley Hall, near Ripon

A two-night celebration featuring gourmet dining, live entertainment, and fireworks.
Ripon

Find out more
Fri 2 Jan 2026 at 1.00 pm

Jack and the Beanstalk: The Christmas Show by Same Difference Arts

Masham Town Hall

A hillarious retelling of the Christmas story of Jack and the Beanstalk, suitable for the whole family.
Masham

Find out more
Fri 2 Jan 2026 at 7.00 pm

Jack and the Beanstalk: The Christmas Show by Same Difference Arts

Stillington Village Hall, Near Easingwold

Same Difference Arts retells the Christmas story version of Jack and the Beanstalk in this 60-minute, family-friendly show. The loveable characters set off on a thrilling journey packed with mischievous villains, daring heroes, dazzling costumes, and toe-tapping songs.
Easingwold

Find out more
Thu 16 Jan – Sat 25 Jan 2026

Puss in Boots Family Pantomime by The Knaresborough Players

The Frazer Theatre, Knaresborough

Beat the January blues! The Knaresborough Players will be performing their annual family pantomime “Puss in Boots”. With something for all of the family this is a show not to be missed! Evening shows at 7.00 pm, Saturday matinees at 2.00 pm.
Knaresborough

Find out more
Sat 18 Jan – Fri 24 Jan 2026

Mother Goose: The Panto Egg-stravaganza!

The Forum, Northallerton

Join the Northallerton Area Variety Society for some fun-filled, family entertainment that is sure to cure any winter, post-Christmas blues.
Northallerton

Find out more
Wed 4 Feb – Sat 7 Feb 2026

Fearby Panto – Hansel & Gretel

Fearby and Healey Village Hall, Near Masham

The Fearby Pantomime Society proudly present Alan Frayn’s Hansel & Gretel, with 7.00 pm performances and a 2.00 pm matinee on Saturday 7th February.
Masham

Find out more

Share this:

Like this:

Like Loading…

Want to keep up-to-date with events and activities on near you? Then, follow Ure Life on social media.


Leave a Reply


HAVE WE MISSED SOMETHING?

Keep Us Up to Date

If you know of any other activities, events, or clubs that are not mentioned on the above list, do let us know, especially if you or someone you know is hosting any things to do near Boroughbridge, Ripon, Thirsk, Easingwold, Masham, Knaresborough, or within the surrounding towns and villages.


Discover more from URE LIFE

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading