The holiday season is upon us, and there’s no better place to get into the festive spirit than Leeds. Come December, the city is aglow with festivities – glittering markets, nostalgic melodies, and joyful gatherings that welcome people of all ages and interests. Make this December one to remember with our top picks of Christmas activities in Leeds! From festive family fun to sparkling date nights, we’ve found the perfect excuses to get you in the holiday spirit. Looking for a Christmas that’s more wow and less wonderful-life Ordinary? Prime Pass has many exciting events up its sleeve to make this holiday season a real showstopper!
1. Magical Christmas Markets
Leeds dresses up for the holidays with some of the most spectacular Christmas markets you’ll find anywhere. Buzzing with excitement, Millennium Square hosts an assortment of colourful stalls – the artisan’s corner, where creative souls showcase gifts, yummies, and ornaments crafted with love, promising a joyous start to your holiday adventure. At the markets, the senses come alive – shimmering jewels catch your eye, while the aroma of freshly baked mince pies teases your taste buds. Don’t forget to try the famous mulled wine or hot chocolate while you browse the wares.
For a truly magical experience, head to Leeds Kirkgate Market, one of the largest covered markets in Europe, which also gets dressed up for the season. At these celebratory markets, you’re bound to stumble upon a special something that screams “thoughtful gift” – exactly what’s needed to make this holiday season one for the books with friends and family.
Tip: Be sure to grab a photo in front of the twinkling Christmas lights—it’s the perfect Christmas selfie spot!
2. Ice Skating at Millennium Square
If you’re looking for a bit of winter fun, ice skating at Millennium Square is a must. The Ice Cube outdoor rink is one of Leeds’ most beloved seasonal attractions. Skating under the winter sky with friends and family, surrounded by festive lights, creates an enchanting atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a first-timer, it’s an activity everyone can enjoy. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not challenge your friends to a race or attempt a few twirls?
This fun-filled activity is perfect for a group of friends or a family outing. If you need to warm up afterwards, there are plenty of nearby cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a hot drink or a festive snack.
3. Paint and Sip at Prime Pass
Looking for a more unique and creative Christmas experience? Prime Pass is offering festive paint and sip sessions at Leeds that will have you feeling merry and bright. Grab a paintbrush, and a glass of wine, and get ready to create your very own holiday masterpiece.
With expert guidance from local artists, you’ll be able to create a personalised Christmas canvas in just a few hours. It’s the ideal way to spend a creative evening with friends or as a team-building activity. Not only do you get to create something special, but you’ll also have a memorable experience to look back on for years to come.
4. Christmas Film Screening at the Cinema
Nothing says Christmas like settling down to watch your favourite festive films on the big screen. Many cinemas across Leeds offer special Christmas screenings, including classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, Home Alone, and Love. Watching your favourite holiday movie on the big screen floods you with a warm sense of nostalgia and amps up the excitement. Whether you’re watching with family, friends, or on a festive date night, it’s a lovely way to enjoy the holiday season.
Tip: Look out for Christmas film marathons or themed events that include seasonal treats like popcorn and mulled wine.
5. Sing Along at a Christmas Concert
For those who love Christmas carols and festive music, Leeds offers a range of Christmas concerts and performances throughout the season. Whether it’s the stunning acoustics of Leeds Town Hall or a cosy performance at a local church, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy carols, classical music, and festive tunes.
From candlelit services to large-scale orchestral performances, Leeds has something for everyone. So dust off your vocal cords and join in the festive chorus, or simply sit back and enjoy the local talent on display.
6. Santa’s Grotto at Stockeld Park
Visiting Santa is a Christmas tradition that never gets old. This year, head to Stockeld Park, where you can meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto. The setting is perfect for little ones (and adults) to experience the wonder of Christmas, as Stockeld Park transforms into a snowy wonderland. Children can sit on Santa’s knee, share their wishes, and receive a special gift to take home.
This is a delightful experience for families looking to make lasting memories this Christmas. After visiting Santa, explore the enchanted forest and take part in other seasonal activities like the ice skating rink and festive trail.
7. Christmas Food Feast
The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without indulging in delicious Christmas treats. Leeds is home to some fantastic restaurants and eateries where you can enjoy festive menus. Whether you’re craving a traditional turkey dinner, a vegan feast, or a decadent dessert, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your tastes.
For a true Christmas feast, make a reservation at one of Leeds’ top restaurants and enjoy a meal with friends, family, or colleagues. Many places offer special Christmas lunch menus, complete with all the festive trimmings.
8. Christmas Crafts Workshop
Holiday craft enthusiasts will feel right at home in Leeds, where festive workshops invite you to get creative and fashion your decorations and gifts. Take a break from the ordinary and unleash your creativity at Crag House Farm’s wreath-making workshop or get crafty with candle-making classes.
Nothing says “Merry Christmas” like a dash of handmade magic, so why not gather the gang for a holiday craft workshop and create some truly special decorations or gifts? As you get into the holiday swing, you’ll find yourself drawn to the people who matter most.
9. Festive Pantomime
No Christmas season is truly complete without experiencing the magic of a pantomime, a cherished festive tradition that brings joy to audiences of all ages. Leeds is home to a vibrant selection of pantomimes, each offering a unique twist on classic tales and festive favourites. Expect a dazzling combination of slapstick comedy, over-the-top characters, catchy songs, and heartwarming stories that will leave you laughing, cheering, and maybe even singing along.
The city’s theaters come alive with spectacular productions, showcasing talented performers, intricate stage designs, and jaw-dropping costumes that capture the magic of the holiday season. Pantomimes are a wonderful way to bring families together, make memories with friends, or even enjoy a fun-filled outing with colleagues. Whether you’re looking to introduce young children to the tradition or relive your childhood memories, these shows promise an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Be sure to grab tickets early, as pantomimes are often in high demand during the Christmas season!
10. Explore the Christmas Lights
When the holiday season rolls around, Leeds bursts into a coloruful extravagansa, its streets and buildings set aglow with dazzling displays of light and festive energy. Meander through the city’s central hub and let the vibrant lights on iconic landmarks like Leeds Town Hall, Victoria Quarter, and the Leeds Corn Exchange dazzle you.
The winter wonderland vibe is in full swing as you saunter down these sparkling streets, camera at the ready to snap glittering decorations and joyful moments. Whether you’re accompanied by friends, family, or that special someone, the dazzling holiday displays immediately transport you to a carefree joy, where the worries of everyday life melt away.
Pro Tip: Head to the Victoria Quarter for a particularly enchanting light display and pop into one of the charming boutiques for a spot of festive shopping.
Book a Christmas Paint and Sip Workshop in Leeds with Prime Pass
This Christmas, why not get creative and add some sparkle to your festive celebrations? From the magic of the Christmas markets to the joy of a Christmas paint and sip session with Prime Pass, Leeds is brimming with Christmas activities that are perfect for making memories with friends, family, or colleagues. Here, art knows no bounds. In Prime Pass’s carefree space, go ahead and let your inner artist run wild – regardless of your skill level.
Get into the holiday spirit with a Christmas-themed paint and sip workshop, where you can sip on your favourite festive drink and craft your very own holiday masterpiece. Guided by Prime Pass’s expert artists, you’ll be taken step by step through the creative process, painting delightful holiday scenes like a serene winter wonderland or a vibrant Christmas tree. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a relaxing, creative activity while immersing yourself in the festive cheer.
Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or colleagues, a paint and sip session at Prime Pass is a fun and unique way to embrace the holiday season. These workshops are also a fantastic choice for team-building events, combining creativity, collaboration, and festive fun. To learn more about how you can incorporate a paint and sip session into your team-building activities, check out our team-building party activities By prime pass .
