Family Christmas activities

You'll find all the staple ingredients of a classic family Christmas in Reading

Sleeping Beauty at The Hexagon is bound to be a family favourite with Justin Fletcher as Justy the Jester and Paul Morse as Nanny Bubbles. From 9 December.

Reading Lantern Parade - 5pm on Saturday 2 December. Follow the lanterns through Broad Street to Forbury Gardens.

Meet Father Christmas at Reading Museum or Broad Street Mall in December. 

Otto’s Magical Toy Shop  November 15 - January 14 (Christmas) Travel to 1901 Bavaria. Sneak into Otto’s toy shop, change history, and ensure the success of a groundbreaking toy! Teamwork and wit required.

LadBaby Book Signing December 2, 2-2:45pm Meet social media sensation LadBaby at Waterstones. Tickets include a book and a chance for a photo with Mark & Roxanne.

Fairytale Afternoon Tea December 3, 1-3pm (Grumpy Green Villain) | December 10, 1-3pm (Huggable Snowman & Snow Queen) Indulge in Mansion House’s festive Afternoon Tea. Enjoy family entertainment, meet characters, and receive gifts from Santa.

Magical Lights at MERL December 6-7:30pm (Magical Lights) | 4:30-5:45pm (Magical Lights, My Way) Explore light magic at MERL. Enjoy craft activities, a torchlight trail, and letter writing to Father Christmas. Specially designed relaxed session available.

Victorian Christmas Experience December 17, 10am-3pm Step back in time at Reading Museum. Make traditional decorations, write a letter to Father Christmas, and receive a special gift. A magical experience for families.

Breaking The Ice Various Dates, Suitable for ages 2-5 Witness the friendship of a Husky and a polar bear in this playful show. Combining physical theatre, puppetry, and interactive elements, it's perfect festive family fun.

Brass Band Performance December 3, 2-3:30pm Enjoy Christmas tunes by the Reading Spring Gardens Brass Band at John Lewis.

Carols by Candlelight December 5, 6pm Join Launchpad for a festive evening at Carols by Candlelight, hosted by Danyl Johnson and Bridgitte Tetteh at Reading Town Hall.

Christmas Craft Workshop December 9, 11am, 12pm, 1pm Children can create special Christmas cards with Enchanted Players and a Christmas Character. Booking essential

Panto- December 15-23, Various Times Why settle for one pantomime when you can experience seven? Enjoy a madcap ride through beloved Christmas pantomimes at Reading Rep Theatre. Witness a dastardly double act dash from Aladdin’s lamp to Dick Whittington’s London, ensuring Cinderella gets to the Ball! This wonderfully absurd festive treat promises laughter and fun for the whole family, kicking off the holidays in style. Don’t miss this unique and entertaining Panto experience!

Christmas Characters in Town December 17, 12-2pm Look out for seasonal characters while Christmas shopping in Reading town centre.

Reading Sharing Stories with Mrs. Christmas December 23 Mrs. Christmas and Reading Children's Book Group share delightful seasonal stories.

Winter Wonderland The annual event has been ongoing since 2014 and claims to be the biggest in Berkshire. Doors to Reading's winter wonderland will swing open on November 11, welcoming guests in until January 7, 2024.

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Please check specific event websites or venues for further details and booking information. Enjoy the festive season in Reading!

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Please note that some events might require prior booking or have specific age restrictions. Check the respective venues for more details. Enjoy the festive season in Reading!