The best things to do in and around Leeds this week | 11 – 17 December 2023
It’s officially two weeks until the big day, and the festivities are in full force.
We have no shame in admitting we’re starting to feel very festive now and while the weather might be a bit cold and miserable recently, it’s not like we aren’t used to it around here and so long as you’re wrapped up, there’s nothing to stop you heading out and enjoying yourself.
Enjoy a mulled wine at the markets or laugh along with the dame at one of the city’s pantomimes, whatever you get up to – we hope it’s a merry one.
Magical Nights at The Queens
Friday 15 December – Saturday 23 December 2023 | The Queens Hotel, City Square
The Queens will host a special Christmas instillation, and we absolutely cannot wait.
Announcing the news to Instagram, the hotel said: “We invite you to join us for a Magical Night at The Queens. The landmark Leeds building will be brought to life, with British actress Celia Imrie to voice our new stunning new city centre animation, taking spectators on a tour around the iconic hotel with the help of one very special guest – The Gingerbread Man.”
Find out more here.
Pup Up Cafe
Sunday 17 December 2023 10am-2pm | Revolution Electric Press, Cookridge Street
Celebrating all things dogs, those heading over to Revs will walk through the doors into the fairground-themed bar and wander between stalls stocking everything your pup could ever want or need.
And there’s a photographer to capture all of the action too. From candid shots of the day to full on photoshoot moments in ball pits and velvet sofas, you and your dog will be papped throughout the experience so you can look back and remember the occasion. And because it’s the most wonderful time of the year, expect plenty of festive props to take photos with!
Find out more here.
Bublé and Bubbles
Friday 17 December 2023 | Banyan, City Square
It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas and Banyan has the the perfect way to get you in the mood. With a glass of fizz included in every ticket, singalong to the timeless Christmas hits from a wonderful performer that’ll give the real Bublé a run for his money.
Find out more here.
Leeds Christmas Markets
Monday 11 – Sunday 17 December 2023 | Across the city centre
Since the markets were last in the city a lot has changed, including the cost of pretty much everything (looking at you, my energy bills). That means that the previous prices at the Leeds Christmas Markets have changed too.
If you’re heading out to enjoy a mulled wine, a few pints, or a festive feast, you’ll be wanting to know how to budget. And where to find the cheapest pint, obviously. We’re here to help. Here is the list of food and drink prices at the Leeds Christmas Markets 2023.
Find the full list here.
Christmas Shows and Pantomimes
Monday 4 – Sunday 10 December 2023 | Various locations
Pantomime season is almost here…oh no it isn’t! Oh yes it is.
Nothing screams Christmas more than heading to the theatre on a cold, crisp evening and watching a brilliant show. Whether you want to risk being pulled on stage by a lavish panto dame or prefer a more civilised evening at the ballet, there’s so many productions happening in and around Leeds this season for you to enjoy.
Find out more here.
Visit Santa at The Thackray Museum of Medicine
Saturday 16 – Sunday 17 December 2023 | Beckett Street, Leeds
Take a visit to see Santa over at the Thackray Museum of Medicine in Harehills. There’s a 90-minute festive experience to explore that tells the tale of how Christmas is celebrated around the world, plus the opportunity to hang out with Father Christmas himself.
There’s additional ‘relaxed experiences’ on dates leading up to Christmas, plus extra crafts and exhibitions to check out around the museum’s grounds.
Find out more here.
Christmas Specials
All week | Across the city
Nothing says Christmas like heading out for some pigs in blankets months before the big day, it’s almost like a warm up for the stomach ahead of December 25th.
Leeds’ foodie scene has gone big this year on its festive specials, here’s a few that have been announced so far…
Find out more here.