As the winter chill starts to settle in, and twinkling lights adorn the streets, we begin to see beautiful Yorkshire transforming into a festive wonderland! From magical Christmas markets to festive foodie fairs, December is brimming with events to toast in the seasonal cheer. The question is just how many of them can you squeeze into your diary before the 25th arrives?
Below we’ve put together our Yorkshire Escape’s Festive Guide. Featuring all the must-attend Christmas events across Yorkshire this December.
Magical Yorkshire Christmas Markets
If it’s quirky gifts, warming winter treats, and enchanting atmospheres you’re searching for, then try out these local Yorkshire Christmas markets this December.
Leeds Christmas Market
Inspired by the traditional German markets, the vibrant Christmas Market in Leeds’ City Square offers an array of bustling bratwurst stands, unusual handcrafted gifts and Glühwein aplenty! Plus the whimsical carousel and ice rink at Millennium Square will keep little ones happy in between sipping their hot chocolate and munching on marshmallows. Find out more.
Harrogate Christmas Fayre
Set against the backdrop of the lovely spa town centre itself, Harrogate’s Christmas Fayre is perfect for picking out special stocking fillers, discovering artisan crafts, and sharing cosy winter drinks with loved ones. Plus, live music acts and street performers add an extra slice of holiday cheer throughout the 10-day festival. Find out more.
Knaresborough Christmas Market
Step into a bijoux winter wonderland in the heart of historic Knaresborough. The 2025 Christmas Market promises a festive weekend filled with artisan stalls, handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and local delights. Find out more.
Santa’s Grotto Experiences in Yorkshire
From immersive North Pole villages to whimsical woodland trails, we really know how to do a Santa’s Grotto here in Yorkshire! Here’s our guide to the best Santa experiences in Yorkshire this festive season.
Santas Grotto at Stockeld Park
Step into a lifelike North Pole village at Stockeld Park, where an Enchanted Elevator ride takes you straight up to Santa’s log cabin! Children can explore interactive scenes with elves, enjoy festive lights, and receive a gift straight from Santa himself. Find out more.
Toymaker’s Workshops at Fountains Abbey
Perfect for crafty little hands! Take part in workshop with the Toymaker. Choose from three different traditional wooden toys and create your own to take home with you. Parents can grab hot drinks and soak in the twinkly atmosphere. Find out more.
Christmas Stories with Santa at RHS Harlow Carr
Snuggle up for a classic Christmas tale read by Santa at the stunning RHS Harlow Carr Gardens – running from 30th November – 24th December. Find out more.
Rudolf Hall at Ingleborough Cave
Adventure-loving families will love this iconic underground winter wonderland, accessed via a woodland walk and Pixie Passage into Rudolf Hall. A warm welcome from Santa will be waiting in his grotto. Hard hats essential! Find out more.
Santas Grotto at Otley Garden Centre
Discover an immersive woodland experience with igloos, Mrs Santa’s kitchen, and a toy shop – all within the grounds of Otley’s favourite garden centre. The interactive experience is around 20 minutes long and each child receives a lovely little gift from Santa at the end. Find out more.
Santa Specials at Scarborough North Bay Railway
Combining a love of trains with festive cheer, families can board the Jingle Belle or Flying Snowman to enjoy a scenic ride along the Yorkshire coast. Kids will get the chance to have a ride on Santa’s sleigh, write a letter to Santa, make their own Reindeer food and then meet Santa himself in his very own train grotto. Find out more.
Winter Light Trails & Illuminations
When dusk falls, explore magical light displays across Yorkshire, from illuminated gardens to town centre light trails.
Glow 25 at RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Harrogate
On selected evenings between 19th November and 23rd December 2025, the stunning gardens at RHS Harlow Carr in Harrogate will be transformed into a glittering spectacle of light and colour. Explore all 23 installations along a figure‑of‑eight route around the Queen Mother’s Lake, enjoying reflections on the water and festive atmospheres. Find out more.
Oz Twilight Tour at Castle Howard
A Christmas trail for the grown ups – this is an exclusive, after-dark guided tour of the House led by Castle Howard’s Christmas Design Director. Discover Christmas with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz after-hours in a small group, complete with a Nyetimber English Sparkling Wine reception. Find out more.
Northern Lights at Temple Newsam, Leeds
Running from the 21st November to 31st December 2025, this spectacular one‑mile trail at the historic Temple Newsam Estate features 14 themed illumination zones, interactive elements, and a Christmas Village with food, drinks, and festive entertainment! Find out more.
Winter Illuminations at Yorkshire Wildlife Park
This 3 km trail of lanterns and light installations runs on several weekends from 15th November through 10 th January 2026. This year it includes a special Wizard’s Quest, as well as unique lighting displays and festive activities along the route. Find out more.
Festive Foodie Experiences in Yorkshire
Heartwarming food and seasonal drinks are what makes Christmas all the more special and delicious. Here’s a look at all the wonderful events taking place for foodies in Yorkshire this December.
Christmas at the Mill, Elsworth Skipton
Enjoy an evening of grown up festive cheer with amazing food & fabulous entertainment. Featuring a three course meal made by award winning chef Bruce Elsworth, a Christmas quiz, and live music from the super talented Sarah Widdop. Find out more.
Christmas Afternoon Tea at Castle Howard
Feast on dainty finger sandwiches, home baked sweet and savoury scones, and delectable miniature cakes created locally by UK Pastry Champion chef Florian Poirot. Served in the grand Grecian Hall complete with roaring fire for a true festive vibe. Find out more.
Brass Christmas at Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Celebrate the build up to Christmas with a festive three-course dinner enjoyed to the the sounds of the renowned Emily Brass Band filling the air. A magical experience for couples or food-loving friends to share. Find out more.
Sledmere Christmas Fair, near York
Explore over a hundred stalls brimming with locally produced festive treats including cheeses, preserves, and warming drinks. Ideal for families and friends looking to combine a foodie day out with festive artisan shopping. Find out more.
Your Festive Yorkshire Staycation
Looking to tie in a visit to one (or all!) of these amazing festive events with a couple of nights away in a luxury self-catering holiday home?
We still have festive availability at some of our favourite Yorkshire properties this December, so check out our Luxury Christmas Breaks page to search for your perfect staycation.
