There are lots of magical London Christmas shows to enjoy in December and over the holiday season, from Christmas pantomimes and festive ballets, to spectacular Christmas theatre productions and the latest West End shows.
Book the best Christmas shows in London
Christmas shows
Elf the Musical at the Dominion Theatre
Enjoy an adaptation of a much-loved Christmas movie in ELF The Musical at the Dominion Theatre featuring songs including “Nobody Cares About Santa". See the heart-warming story of Buddy who grew up around Santa’s little helpers, heading to New York to find his real family. 15 Nov-6 Jan
Book your tickets now for Santa's favourite musical: Elf
Peter Pan Goes Wrong at the Lyric Theatre
See the quirky adaptation of a great classic with Peter Pan Goes Wrong at the Lyric Theatre, a production that combines chaos with comedy. This hilarious production invites you to witness the misadventures of a theatre troupe attempting to put on a performance of the beloved classic, Peter Pan. As the set malfunctions and lines are fumbled, the result is an incredibly funny portrayal of a play-within-a-play gone awry. 23 Nov-14 Jan
Book your tickets now for Peter Pan Goes Wrong, a Mischief Theatre production
La Clique at Leicester Square
The live show La Clique makes its comeback to Leicester Square this winter. Join the festive fun and enter the magnificent Spiegeltent for a night filled with laughter and surprise while you discover an incredible mix of circus, comedy and cabaret. 8 Nov-6 Jan
Book your tickets now for La Clique
Christmas ballets in London
The Nutcracker at The London Coliseum
See more than 100 ballet dancers and musicians bringing Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker to life on the London Coliseum stage. Marking its annual return, this classic show follows Clara and her Nutcracker doll go on a magical adventure where they meet all sorts of characters. 14 Dec-7 Jan
Book your tickets now and see the enchanting Nutcracker ballet
The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House
Be mesmerised as the sparkling Royal Ballet performs Tchaikovsky’s festive masterpiece, The Nutcracker, on the Royal Opera House stage over Christmas. See eye-catching costumes and projections, and follow Clara on her journey through a winter wonderland in the quest to find the Sugar Plum Fairy. Peter Wright’s production stays true to the spirit of the original ballet, combining mesmerising ballet to Tchaikovsky's captivating score. 6 Dec-13 Jan
Edward Scissorhands - Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures at Sadler’s Wells
The enchanting production of Edward Scissorhands by Matthew Bourne returns to Sadler’s Wells, having spellbound the imaginations of audiences worldwide. Drawing inspiration from Tim Burton's beloved film of the same title, this captivating Christmas favourite promises a magical performance that shouldn't be missed. 5 Dec-20 Jan
Top kids shows this Christmas
The Gruffalo's Child at Garrick Theatre
Enjoy an enchanting stage adaptation of the award-winning children’s book by Julia Donaldson, The Gruffalo’s Child, at the Garrick Theatre. Follow the Gruffalo’s Child on her daring adventure through the deep dark wood, as she encounters many mysterious creatures and discovers if the Big Bad Mouse really does exist after all. 1 Dec-7 Jan
Book tickets now for The Gruffalo's Child at Garrick Theatre
Stick Man at the Leicester Square Theatre
The Leicester Square Theatre brings Julia Donaldson’s loveable Stick Man back to life this Christmas. Follow his adventures as he leaves the family tree, a trip that is not without chaos and mischief, made all the more spectacular with music, puppetry and dance. 21 Oct-2 Jan
Book your tickets now and follow the misadventures of Stick Man
Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at Theatre Royal Haymarket
Peppa, George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig enjoy an exciting day out visiting the zoo and also the beach for a special party in Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at Theatre Royal Haymarket. There are also plenty of muddy puddles along the way, of course, in this song-filled show. 30 Nov-31 Dec
Book tickets now for Peppa Pig's Fun Day Out at Theatre Royal Haymarket.
Father Christmas Needs A Wee! at the Arts Theatre
This December, discover a rather hilarious adaptation of Nicholas Allan's book: Father Christmas Needs A Wee! at the Arts Theatre in Leicester Square. At each house he visits on Christmas Eve, Santa finds different types of treats, milk and cookies amongst favourites, and finds himself in need of using the toilet, so much that he forgets to deliver some presents. 2-23 Dec
Book your tickets now and see Father Christmas Needs a Wee
The Smartest Giant in Town at the St Martin's Theatre
Meet George, a giant with a big heart, who decides he needs a new wardrobe for a smarty-pants look. See The Smartest Giant in Town at the St Martin's Theatre, a musical adaptation of the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson, tells the moving story of a giant in his quest to start anew, only to stumble across a series of animals in need of his help... or shall we say his brand new clothes! 2 Dec-7 Jan
Book your tickets now and see the puppet show The Smartest Giant in Town
The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre
Be enchanted by this ballet adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ timeless children’s story The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre. Discover what happens when a boy meets a snowman who comes to life, and go with them on a magical adventure to the North Pole. 18 Nov-30 Dec
Raymond Briggs' Father Christmas at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre
Get ready for a jolly time at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre with Raymond Briggs' Father Christmas pantomime. It's all about Father Christmas going on his gift-giving adventure. No matter if you're a kid or a grown-up, this pantomime will make you feel the holiday magic and put a big smile on your face. 22 Nov-30 Dec
Best pantomimes in London
Peter Pan at the London Palladium
Peter Pan is flying to the London Palladium this Christmas, the ultimate pantomime adventure on the London West End featuring Jennifer Saunders as Captain Hook and Julian Clary as Smee. Join Peter, Wendy, Tinker Bell, and Captain Hook on a thrilling journey to Neverland, where magic, adventure, and laughter await. With dazzling performances, enchanting sets, and a sprinkle of fairy dust, this production promises a joyous and unforgettable holiday treat. 9 Dec-14 Jan
Potted Panto at Wilton’s Music Hall
Join the fun at Wilton's Music Hall for a wild ride with your favourite characters from the world of pantomimes. Potted Panto brings back to the stage seven of the best loved pantomimes in what is sure to be an all laugh out loud evening. 29 Nov-30 Dec
Cinderella at the Lyric Hammersmith
Get ready to be swept off your feet as the classic tale of Cinderella comes alive in a fantastic pantomime at the Lyric Hammersmith Theatre. Join Cinderella on her magical journey from rags to riches, with hilarious twists and turns along the way. 18 Nov-6 Jan
Aladdin at the Hackney Empire
Get ready for a magical adventure as the beloved tale of Aladdin takes the stage in a dazzling pantomime at the Hackney Empire. Join Aladdin, the Genie, and a whole cast of colourful characters as they journey through a world of wishes, wonders, and laughter. Featuring Clive Row as Widow Twankey, expect an colourful cast ready dazzle you with an enchanting story. 18 Nov-31 Dec
Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre Royal Stratford East
Jack tries to tame an out-of-control beanstalk when his magic beans are more than they seem. Does he succeed with the help of Dame Trot? Discover this East London production's hilarious take on the much-loved story Jack and the Beanstalk is a perfect night out for the whole family. So, grab a handful of magic beans and try to not fall out of your seat with this laugh-out-loud festive comedy at the Theatre Royal Stratford East. 18 Nov-6 Jan
Dick Whittington at the Richmond Theatre
Get ready for a rollicking adventure as the classic tale of Dick Whittington comes to life with a twist, featuring the brilliant Paul Merton, at the Richmond Theatre. Join Dick Whittington and his furry friend as they journey to London seeking fame and fortune, encountering hilarious characters and unexpected challenges along the way. 9 Dec-7 Jan
Quirky Christmas shows
Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story at Alexandra Palace
Be transported to Victorian London as you follow Scrooge's journey, guided by the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. Charles Dickens' timeless classic, A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story, comes to life in an enchanting production at London's Alexandra Palace, telling the beloved story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his journey to learn the true meaning of Christmas. 24 Nov-7 Jan
Book your tickets now for A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
A Sherlock Carol at the Marylebone Theatre
Gear up for an electrifying blend of deduction and holiday magic as A Sherlock Carol returns to the Marylebone Theatre. This isn't your ordinary play — prepare to be enthralled as the worlds of Sherlock Holmes and Charles Dickens as Holmes navigates a mysterious holiday case, guided by spirits that lead him to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. 24 Nov-7 Jan
Book your tickets now for the Sherlock Carol at the Marylebone Theatre
Horrible Histories: Horrible Christmas at the Barbican
Horrible Histories: Horrible Christmas, a terrific Christmas tale, will make you jump on your seat at the Barbican Hall. Discover how Christmas has come under threat from Victorian times to the Tudor golden age in the company of famous historic figures. Join Charles Dickens, Oliver Cromwell, Henry VIII and many others along the way as they come together to save Christmas. Only for one day on the 29 Dec
Book your tickets now for a terrific tale with Horrible Stories Horrible Christmas
A Christmas Carol at The Old Vic
A unique production of the festive classic A Christmas Carol returns to The Old Vic this winter. Matthew Warchus' production, adapted by Jack Thorne, is a fresh take on Dickens’ tale of compassion, which won five Tony Awards for its Broadway run in 2019. 11 Nov-6 Jan
The Magic Circle Christmas Show at The Magic Circle Foundation
Enjoy a magical evening as magicians bewitch you with their best tricks. The Magic Circle Foundation, the world's leading magical society, opens its doors with a show packed with close-up magic and other stunts perfect for a unique evening. Take the chance to explore the museum before the show starts, where you'll find mysterious memorabilia, from Houdini's strait jacket to the shoes in which Dynamo walked across the Thames. Dates to be confirmed
A Christmas Carol at the Alexandra Palace Theatre
Get ready to be transported to the heart of Victorian London as the timeless tale of A Christmas Carol comes alive at the Alexandra Palace Theatre, with a touch of magic by Mark Gatiss. Immerse yourself in the story of Ebenezer Scrooge's redemption as he's visited by ghosts on a life-changing Christmas Eve. 24 Nov-7 Jan
Christmas concerts in London
Christmas at the Movies at the Cadogan Hall
Experience the magic of the holiday season like never before with Christmas at the Movies at the iconic Cadogan Hall, and the masterful performance of a symphonic orchestra. From classic favourites like "It's a Wonderful Life" to modern gems like "Elf" and "Home Alone," the event is a cinematic journey through the spirit of Christmas. 27 Dec
Book your tickets for Christmas at the Movies
Massaoke: Christmas Live at the Electric Ballroom Camden
Don't miss out on an electrifying Christmas party with the rock band Massaoke at the Electric Ballroom in Camden. Join the band in a massive sing-along with all your favourite festive hits from the 80s, 90s and beyond for a live show where you get to be the star for one evening. 8 Dec
Find more shows and musicals in London this festive season.