In December, London turns into a winter wonderland, offering a dazzling array of Christmas shows throughout the holiday season. From enchanting London pantomimes that spread festive cheer to elegant ballets filled with magical beauty, there’s something for everyone. Delight in classic tales with a seasonal twist on the West End, marvel at graceful dance performances, or lose yourself in captivating theatre plays. London’s Christmas shows are the perfect way to celebrate the holidays and create lasting memories.
Book the best Christmas shows in London
Be sure to check back closer to winter to see what the festive takeover of the West End looks like - and book your tickets early so you don’t miss out!
Some shows have already been announced, bringing a joyful holiday spirit to London’s theatre scene and delighting audiences of all ages - no Scrooge in sight (for now). Take a look at the list below, featuring much-loved London classics as well as fresh, unique performances lighting up Theatreland this year.
London theatre shows
Wanting to catch a top London theatre show before December? Check out this list of not-to-be-missed performances that have stood the test of time in London's West End!
- Discover the destiny of two witches like no other who test the boundaries of friendship and trust like no other in the sensational musical Wicked.
- Follow the adventures of Simba as he embarks on a quest of its own before coming back to its tribe in The Lion King.
- Immerse yourself in the magical wizarding world of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, where the special effects alone are sure to leave you spellbound many years after The Boy Who Lived went to Hogwarts for the first time.
Christmas theatre shows in London
A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong – Mischief Comedy
Rejoice as Mischief Theatre – the slapstick comedy pros – are back in the West End this festive season with A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong. Forget everything you know about Dickens’ classic, as the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society (still undeterred by their past catastrophes) gives it a go. Expect the usual Mischief mayhem: missed cues, flying props and a cast desperately trying to hold it all together. 6 Dec 2025 – 25 Jan 2026
A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story
Following its successful West End run in 2021, Mark Gatiss is bringing back A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story – this time to the stage of Alexandra Palace Theatre. Step into a chilling world of spirits, as the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future appear with breathtaking special effects. 22 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026
Christmas ballets in London
The Nutcracker at The London Coliseum
More than 100 ballet dancers and musicians are 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 on a magical adventure where they meet all sorts of characters. The Coliseum is bringing to the stage a fresh, dazzling production set in Edwardian London, featuring an exciting chase after the menacing Mouse King. 11 Dec 2025 – 11 Jan 2026
Christmas shows for kids in London
Stick Man at the Leicester Square Theatre
The Bloomsbury Theatre & Studio is bringing Julia Donaldson’s lovable Stick Man back to the stage this Christmas, much to families' delight. Join young Stick Man's adventures as he leaves the family tree, heading on a trip packed with chaos, mischief and surprises – made all the more spectacular with music, puppetry and dance. 4 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026
Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show! at Theatre Royal Haymarket
Join Peppa Pig and her family on a fun adventure full of surprises as they prepare for the new baby's arrival in Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show! at Theatre Royal Haymarket. This Christmas, children and parents alike can expect an oinktastic experience as the whole Peppa Pig family prepares for their newest family member. Based on the beloved animated TV series and perfect for little ones, this brand-new live stage show is set to delight families throughout the festive season. 5 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026
Maddie Moate's Very Curious Christmas
Maddie – best known from CBeebies – is bringing her hit Christmas show back to the West End: Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas, fresh from an Olivier Award nomination. Join Maddie as she dives into the origins of our favourite festive traditions, while her work experience at a snow workshop takes a chaotic turn thanks to two mischievous elves who might just ruin Christmas... 12 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026
Best Christmas pantomimes in London
Potted Panto at Wilton’s Music Hall
After a hit run last Christmas, Wilton’s Music Hall invites audiences back for 80 minutes of madcap fun with Potted Panto. Expect a whirlwind of laughs as beloved characters like Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty take the stage in this Olivier Award-nominated show. Seven classic pantos, one fast-paced production – the perfect festive treat for kids and grown-ups alike. 3 Dec 2025 – 3 Jan 2026
Sleeping Beauty at the London Palladium
This year, the London Palladium marks 10 years of panto magic with a brand-new take on Sleeping Beauty. Expect big laughs and a festive dose of sparkle, with Catherine Tate, Palladium panto royalty Julian Clary, and impressionist Jon Culshaw leading the cast. The classic fairytale gets a fresh twist this Christmas – with a happy ending (of course) and plenty of madness along the way. 6 Dec 2025 – 11 Jan 2026
Find more shows and musicals in London while you wait for the festive season to return.