With Christmas right around the corner, there’s plenty to do in and around Kingston this festive season.
This charming and vibrant market town transforms into a winter wonderland this time of the year. From the European-style ski-themed market and spectacular street theatre, to the reimagining of fairy tale classics, there is something for everyone.
So here’s a guide of unique festive activities that will restore faith in the magic of Christmas!
- Kingston Christmas Market
If you’re looking for a traditional Christmas experience, this market is for you. The Christmas market located in Kingston town centre is a real spectacle every year.
From street food and mulled wine to live music, it’s the perfect place for families, couples and friends to enjoy the season.
This European-style market features the ski-themed Alpine Village, a vintage carousel and 40 traditional wooden cabins with handmade gifts and so much more.
The market is currently open daily until December 24.
2. Christmas cinema
Catch all the Christmas classics at Ravens Ait Island Christmas cinema. Located on an island just across the river in Surbiton, this unique experience is guaranteed to get you in the festive mood.
In a heated marquee, you will get the full cinema experience with a twist. It features large, cosy bean bags and a fully stocked bar with all your cinema favourites at a discounted price.
Some of the showings include Elf, Love Actually, Home Alone and Frozen.
There will be three screenings per day from December 13 until December 16.
3. Rose Theatre Christmas show: Beauty and the Beast
For the theatre lovers out there, the annual Rose Theatre Christmas show is back following its cancellation last year.
This year, it’s the Rose’s original production of Beauty and the Beast (but with a festive touch).
Written by Ciaran McConville and starring Amelia Kinu Muus, this remake is set on Christmas night where three siblings bring the story of Bella alive.
If this sounds like it’s for you, head over to the Rose Theatre to book your tickets now!
Available to watch now until January 3 2022.
4. Christmas at Kew
The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew is one of the most biodiverse places on earth, with 500 acres of woodland.
Christmas at Kew Gardens features a magical after0dark winter trail with beautiful illuminations and the panoramic Palm House light display.
There is plenty to do, including meeting Father Christmas and indulging in yummy snacks from a range of food vendors.
Visit the trail now until January 9 2022.
5. Open mic night at the Christmas Market stage
Kingston Christmas Market are currently hosting open mic night on Tuesday evenings, with every performer receiving a free cup of mulled wine!
This is a great opportunity for promising performers to put themselves out there, or to just have a good time with friends.
The open mic sessions will run every Tuesday until Christmas. Sign up at 5.30pm and get ready to perform at 6pm.
6. Personalise your own Christmas jumper with The Make Arcade
Add a festive touch to your wardrobe this year. The Make Arcade will be hosting a family craft session where you’ll personalise an item from your own wardrobe for the Christmas season.
You’ll learn everything you need to know to create a festive masterpiece, including how to use a range of felts and trims to create the best layouts.
The session will take place on December 19 at John Lewis, and tickets are available book now.
7. Tea with Santa at Place to Eat Café
To get the whole family in the Christmas mood, why not join Father Christmas for tea?
Place to Eat Café are hosting Tea with Santa at John Lewis this Christmas on December 15, 16 and 17.
There will be the opportunity to take part in festive storytelling, as well as each child receiving a special gift from Santa.
To book your place, visit Customer Services Floor 1.
8. Christmas street theatre and circus performers
Keep an eye out in Kingston town centre as circus performers bring some festive magic to the streets.
Stilt-walking performers, acrobatic elves and ballerinas are just some of the magical delights you could encounter.
The next performance will be Saturday 18. For details on specific times, visit their event page now.
