Christmas in East London with kids: Family events + activities near you
One thing we’ve noticed about Christmas in East London this year is that it's going to feel very Victorian.
This jumped out as we researched our guide to Christmas in London with kids for 2026, but it makes sense when you think about it. So many Christmas traditions come from the Victorians.
Charles Dickens published A Christmas Carol in 1843, the same year the first Christmas card was sent. Prince Albert made the decorated Christmas tree fashionable in Britain. And a London sweetshop owner, Tom Smith, invented the Christmas cracker.
What are the best things to do this Christmas in East London with kids?
As mentioned above, several Christmas events in East London this year are inviting families to step into the Victorian world.
From 7 November, St Katharine Docks becomes a Victorian Christmas village. At the London Museum Docklands, Santa awaits in a Dickensian-style grotto inside the museum’s Sailortown gallery.
Then there’s Wilton’s Music Hall, built in 1859. This Christmas, it’s staging The Little Match Girl, a dance retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s tale.
There are several places to see Scrooge on stage. Ebony Scrooge retells A Christmas Carol through hip-hop dance, while Scrooge! Cirque Extravaganza brings circus to the Excel.
Of course, not every Christmas activity for kids in East London is quite so Victorian.
You have a choice of two quite different pantos. Hackney Empire is staging Jack and the Beanstalk from 21 November and throughout December. Over at Theatre Royal Stratford East, Robin Hood and the Merry Mandem runs until 2 January.
And at the Excel, a magical lift will transport you to the Wundrful World of Christmas, an immersive experience for ages 3 to 8.
- More family fun: Things to do with kids in London in November
Looking for kids' Christmas activities in another London area?
Family activities for Christmas in East London you can book right now:
Baby Knees Up Christmas Family Concert, Poplar
Cor Blimey, Guv’nor, it’s a good old-fashioned FESTIVE knees up! Fancy a change from the same old Christmas carols? Grab your basin of gravy and your dustbin lids and join us for some festive songs at the Ol’ Johanna! A lively, interactive family event with a Christmas twist, perfect for all ages from 0 to 100. Expect puppets, singalongs, and plenty of surprises as we dive into a joyful festive celebration led by none other than ‘King of Singalong’ Tom Carradine. What’s in store? Flying babies! Get little ones soaring to the soundtrack of The Snowman, a snowy serenade! Delight in dazzling bubbles as we croon to White Christmas Toothy giggles! Chattering teeth bring the laughs for All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth Meet Dominick the Italian Christmas Donkey! He’s trotting in to spread some festive cheer A mix of medleys! Whether it’s Christmas or Cockney, there's plenty to sing along to. So grab your kids, bring your nan, don your Christmas jumper and warm up your best singing voice. It’s time to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year – Cockney style! Brought to you by the producers of highly successful Baby Broadway and Baby Gospel concert series. Concerts last 45 minutes, open to all ages 0+ (recommended up to age 7 and their grown ups). Audience feedback: “Loved it! Will recommend to others. Thank you. Feel very festive now!” “Me, my 3 year old and 3 month old enjoyed ourselves hugely” “The show’s hosts were super fun and enthusiastic and got the kids involved in the performance from the get go”.
Tue 10 Nov - Tue 10 Nov
11:30 - 12:15
Christmas Activities • 0m-7 years • From £3.50
E14, Poplar Union
Christmas Family Concert, Victoria Park
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Sleigh bells ring, the stage is set - a jolly concert you won't forget. So don your glitter, grab your crew - Bach to Baby's got a treat for you! Our Christmas concerts are a festive feast of music and sing-along carols - featuring seasonal favourites, jazzy twists and surprises. Whether rocking a baby, shepherding tots, or gathering the whole family tree, eveyone's welcome. About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Thu 3 Dec - Thu 3 Dec
10:30 - 11:15
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
E9, St John of Jerusalem Church
Wundrful World of Christmas: Immersive Event
A magical, mixed-reality walk-through experience to meet Santa and his elves. Your journey will be guided by a cast of animated characters and real-life actors. Start your adventure in the Wundr Lift, where your trusty elf pilot will transport you on a magical ride to the snow-filled North. Wander through the Enchanted Forest and try your hand at snowballing! Learn from the busy elves how Santa’s workshop works — and become a trainee elf! Savour the delicious treats a jovial Mrs Claus is cooking up. Settle into Santa’s cozy cottage to hear his story, before heading to the North Pole Post Office for a photo with the Big Man himself! The WUNDR Lift Begin your journey to the North Pole powered by the magic of Santa’s elves. Listen carefully to Elf Conductor Noel’s instructions as Captain Pinecone zooms you through the clouds to the North Pole. Enchanted Forest Step through the Wundr Door into the snow-covered North Pole and wander past the Wishing Well to the Elves’ Workshop. The Elves’ Workshop Master Builder Elf Jock McChisel and his apprentice Holly are ready to show you how the toy-making line works. Watch closely so you’re ready for your shift at the Toy Sorting Station. Toy Sorting Station All little trainee Elves welcome here! Santa’s helper will show you where to pick up a letter and go to find the right toy. Once you’ve found it, drop it off at the wrapping station and you’re on your way to becoming an Elf. Mrs Claus’s Kitchen Ah that smells delicious! Meet Mrs Claus in her kitchen and she’ll demonstrate how to make those special treats that her dear hubbie loves so much! Listen carefully so you can leave the right snack out for the Big Man on the night before Christmas. Santa’s Study Meet Santa's favourite elf in the study where Santa likes to read children's letters and hear her tale of how they first met. Santa's Grotto Enjoy a special meeting with Santa and have the moment captured in a unique photo.
Fri 13 Nov - Wed 23 Dec
10:00 - 11:00
Christmas Activities • 3-8 years • £24.90
E16, Immerse LDN ExCel Waterfront
Scrooge Cirque Extravaganza
From the Producers of last year’s ELF THE MUSICAL UK TOUR – a cirque style twist on the classic tale, direct from a smash hit season in 2025 at the ICC Wales. Something different for your Christmas entertainment! An enchanting mix of musical theatre with cirque wow factor, suitable for the whole family. An international cast breath new fire into Charles Dickens’ classic tale.
Wed 23 Dec - Sun 27 Dec
18:00 - 20:20
Theatre Show • 3 years+ • £34.00
E16, Excel London
Baby Knees Up Christmas Concert, Leytonstone
Cor Blimey, Guv’nor, it’s a good old-fashioned FESTIVE knees up! Fancy a change from the same old Christmas carols? Grab your basin of gravy and your dustbin lids and join us for some festive songs at the Ol’ Johanna! A lively, interactive family event with a Christmas twist, perfect for all ages from 0 to 100. Expect puppets, singalongs, and plenty of surprises as we dive into a joyful festive celebration led by none other than ‘King of Singalong’ Tom Carradine. What’s in store? Flying babies! Get little ones soaring to the soundtrack of The Snowman, a snowy serenade! Delight in dazzling bubbles as we croon to White Christmas Toothy giggles! Chattering teeth bring the laughs for All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth Meet Dominick the Italian Christmas Donkey! He’s trotting in to spread some festive cheer A mix of medleys! Whether it’s Christmas or Cockney, there's plenty to sing along to. So grab your kids, bring your nan, don your Christmas jumper and warm up your best singing voice. It’s time to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year – Cockney style! Brought to you by the producers of highly successful Baby Broadway and Baby Gospel concert series. Concerts last 45 minutes, open to all ages 0+ (recommended up to age 7 and their grown ups). Audience feedback: “Loved it! Will recommend to others. Thank you. Feel very festive now!” “Me, my 3 year old and 3 month old enjoyed ourselves hugely” “The show’s hosts were super fun and enthusiastic and got the kids involved in the performance from the get go”.
Sun 13 Dec - Sun 13 Dec
11:00 - 11:45
Christmas Activities • 0m-7 years • From £3.50
E11, The Northcote
Christmas Family Concert, Greenwich
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times. Tickets: £18/adult when booked through our website Remember: Up to 2 children come free on every Adult Ticket! Doors open 15 minutes before, and concert lasts for about 45 minutes.
Sun 29 Nov - Sun 29 Nov
15:00 - 15:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
SE10, Christ Church
New Year's Family Concert, Greenwich
Say Goodbye to the year in style with Bach to Baby. Give a Cheer to What a Year! About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Sun 3 Jan - Sun 3 Jan
15:00 - 15:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
SE10, Christ Church
Bach to Baby Christmas Family Concert, London Bridge & Borough
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Sleigh bells ring, the stage is set - a jolly concert you won't forget. So don your glitter, grab your crew - Bach to Baby's got a treat for you! Our Christmas concerts are a festive feast of music and sing-along carols - featuring seasonal favourites, jazzy twists and surprises. Whether rocking a baby, shepherding tots, or gathering the whole family tree, eveyone's welcome. About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Sat 14 Nov - Sat 14 Nov
11:00 - 11:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
SE1, St Mary Magdalen
Bach to Baby New Year's Family Concert, Borough & London Bridge
Say Goodbye to the old, and welcome the new year in style with Bach to Baby. Give a Cheer to What a Year! About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Thu 31 Dec - Thu 31 Dec
15:00 - 15:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
SE1, St Mary Magdalen
Baby Gospel Christmas Family Concert, Stoke Newington
Baby Gospel returns for a Christmas special! An uplifting family concert of soul, gospel and festive music, featuring the featuring the exceptional voices of members of CK Gospel Choir. Sing and clap along with your family to Christmas favourites like ‘Winter Wonderland’ and ‘Jingle Bells’ plus timeless carols such as ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.’ Expect the usual soul, gospel and Motown favourites too, and even bubbles! This baby-friendly concert welcomes everyone from newborns to school-aged kids, parents, and even grandparents. Lasting approximately 40 - 45 minutes, it's the perfect way to celebrate the festive season together. CK Gospel Choir are a renowned group from London who have performed with stars like Beverley Knight, Peter Andre, and Alfie Boe. This is a festive family event you won’t want to miss. “Had an incredible time…singing along to classics, dancing and grooving” The Young Londoner “A beautiful interactive performance for all ages” - parent Monday 7th December, 10am & 11.30am The Old Church, Stoke Newington Church Street, N16 9ES Adults £15.50, kids free 10am: https://billet.to/2021883-listings 11.30am: https://billet.to/2021884-listings
Mon 7 Dec - Mon 7 Dec
10:00 - 10:45
Music • 0m-8 years • £15.50
N16, The Old Church
Pinocchio
Dreaming of a life beyond his traditional town, restless maverick Geppetto makes a magical wooden puppet called PINOCCHIO. Together they set out to find family and discover the wonder of being human. Playing at the THE GLOBE theatre Bring everyone together for ‘one of the best family shows around’ ★★★★ (The Telegraph) – or treat yourself to ‘a great night out’ ★★★★ (The Reviews Hub). Full of fabulous live music and packed with ‘blissful silliness… and boisterous humour’ ★★★★ (The Guardian), this is ‘a wonderful festive treat’ ★★★★ (Independent) for everybody age 5 and up Do not miss this ★★★★★ ‘beautiful new musical’ (WhatsOnStage), written by Charlie Josephine (I, Joan, Globe; Cowbois, Royal Court) and Jim Fortune (Mr Gum and the Dancing Bear, National), directed by Globe Associate Artistic Director Sean Holmes.
Sat 28 Nov - Sat 2 Jan
18:30 - 20:40
Theatre Show • 5 years+ • £6.00
SE1, Globe Theatre
Christmas Family Concert, Islington Angel
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Sleigh bells ring, the stage is set - a jolly concert you won't forget. So don your glitter, grab your crew - Bach to Baby's got a treat for you! Our Christmas concerts are a festive feast of music and sing-along carols - featuring seasonal favourites, jazzy twists and surprises. Whether rocking a baby, shepherding tots, or gathering the whole family tree, eveyone's welcome. About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Sat 14 Nov - Sat 14 Nov
15:00 - 15:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
N1, St. Mary's Church
Bach to Baby New Year's Family Concert, Islington Angel
Say Goodbye to the old, and welcome the new year in style with Bach to Baby. Give a Cheer to What a Year! About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Thu 31 Dec - Thu 31 Dec
11:00 - 11:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
N1, St. Mary's Church
Christmas Family Concert, Blackheath
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Sleigh bells ring, the stage is set - a jolly concert you won't forget. So don your glitter, grab your crew - Bach to Baby's got a treat for you! Our Christmas concerts are a festive feast of music and sing-along carols - featuring seasonal favourites, jazzy twists and surprises. Whether rocking a baby, shepherding tots, or gathering the whole family tree, eveyone's welcome. About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Thu 26 Nov - Thu 26 Nov
16:00 - 16:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
SE3, Mycenae House
Bach to Baby Christmas Family Concert, Islington Highbury
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Sleigh bells ring, the stage is set - a jolly concert you won't forget. So don your glitter, grab your crew - Bach to Baby's got a treat for you! Our Christmas concerts are a festive feast of music and sing-along carols - featuring seasonal favourites, jazzy twists and surprises. Whether rocking a baby, shepherding tots, or gathering the whole family tree, eveyone's welcome. About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Wed 9 Dec - Wed 9 Dec
10:00 - 10:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
N5, Christ Church
Baby Gospel Christmas Family Concert, Highbury
“Had an incredible time…singing along to classics, dancing and grooving” The Young Londoner “A beautiful interactive performance for all ages” - parent Baby Gospel returns for a Christmas special! An uplifting family concert of soul, gospel and festive music, featuring the featuring the exceptional voices of members of CK Gospel Choir. Sing and clap along with your family to Christmas favourites like ‘Winter Wonderland’ and ‘Jingle Bells’ plus timeless carols such as ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.’ Expect the usual soul, gospel and Motown favourites too, and even bubbles! This baby-friendly concert welcomes everyone from newborns to school-aged kids, parents, and even grandparents. Lasting approximately 40 - 45 minutes, it's the perfect way to celebrate the festive season together. CK Gospel Choir are a renowned group from London who have performed with stars like Beverley Knight, Peter Andre, and Alfie Boe. This is a festive family event you won’t want to miss. For further details and to book tickets go to www.babybroadway.co.uk Sunday 6th December, 3pm Highbury Roundhouse, 71 Ronalds Road, London N5 1XB Adults £15.50, kids free https://billet.to/2021880-listings
Sun 6 Dec - Sun 6 Dec
15:00 - 15:45
Music • 0m-8 years • £15.50
N5, Highbury Roundhouse
Christmas Family Concert, Walthamstow
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and meet us at a Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! Sleigh bells ring, the stage is set - a jolly concert you won't forget. So don your glitter, grab your crew - Bach to Baby's got a treat for you! Our Christmas concerts are a festive feast of music and sing-along carols - featuring seasonal favourites, jazzy twists and surprises. Whether rocking a baby, shepherding tots, or gathering the whole family tree, eveyone's welcome. About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Fri 27 Nov - Fri 27 Nov
16:00 - 16:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
E17, St Michael and All Angels
New Year's Family Concert, Walthamstow
Say Goodbye to the old in style with Bach to Baby. Give a Cheer to What a Year! About Bach to Baby Bach to Baby is the critically acclaimed concert series for babies, toddlers and their carers. Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. Outstanding Musicians, Exhilarating Performances, Inspiring Locations across the UK. As seen at Royal Albert Hall and Buckingham Palace. Featured in The Times (London) and the New York Times.
Wed 30 Dec - Wed 30 Dec
11:00 - 11:45
Music • 0m-5 years • £18.00
E17, St Michael and All Angels
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Finding the right family activities for Christmas in East London:
Where can kids meet Father Christmas in East London in 2026?
Kids can meet Father Christmas in all sorts of places in East London this year, from a market gateway to an old railway station.
The easiest visit is Santa Sunday at Old Spitalfields Market on 13 December. It’s free, and there’s no need to book (although this could mean you have to wait in a queue).
From 12pm to 3pm, Father Christmas will be in the gateway between 61 and 65 Brushfield Street. Kids who’ve been good get a small gift, too.
In Shoreditch, Noir Kringle runs its Black Santa’s Grotto Experience from 17 to 22 December. It takes over the Old Railway Station on Old Street, where Mrs Kringle will be revealing her secret reindeer food recipe.
For more of a sit-down meeting, Santa’s Tea Party at John Lewis Stratford runs from 4 to 24 December.
Where to see Christmas lights in East London in 2026
Old Spitalfields Market throws one of the liveliest switch-on parties we’ve found this year. On Wednesday 11 November from 4pm, kids can enjoy free face painting, Christmas crafts and an elf balloon modeller. The lights go on at 6pm, and a trio from The Spitz Band plays everyone out.
About 15 minutes’ walk away, Leadenhall Market switches on its lights on 19 November. This is one we definitely recommend if you're after a Victorian-themed Christmas outing. The market’s ornate roof dates from 1881, and Harry Potter fans may recognise it from the first film.
For more ideas across the city, see our guide to the best places to see Christmas lights in London.
Christmas markets to browse in East London in 2026
East London has perhaps the best line-up of Christmas markets in the city.
Old Spitalfields Market goes all out for Christmas, with its festive programme running from 11 November into the new year. Last year, the market hung what it called London’s biggest wreaths, with a present-filled phone box beneath for photos.
Back at Leadenhall Market, the SoLo Craft Fair sets up on 14 November and 12 December. Or for animal lovers, Spitalfields City Farm holds its Winter Fayre on 12 December.
And don’t forget the Victorian Christmas village at St Katharine Docks we mentioned earlier, open until 3 January.
FAQ: Planning Christmas in East London with kids
Where can families go for free at Christmas in East London?
For a free Christmas activity families can show up to the Old Spitalfields Market’s Christmas lights switch-on party on 11 November. From 4pm, kids get free face painting, Christmas crafts and an elf balloon modeller, before the lights go on at 6pm. London Museum Docklands is free to visit, too, though its Victorian Santa’s grotto is ticketed.
What Christmas activities for babies and toddlers are there in East London?
Christmas activities for babies and toddlers in East London include family concerts and storytelling sessions. Baby Knees Up comes to Poplar Union on 10 November and The Northcote in Leytonstone on 13 December, from £3.50. Discover Children’s Story Centre in Stratford also runs Festive Baby Sing and Sign on 18 December.
What is the prettiest Christmas spot in East London?
One of the prettiest Christmas spots in East London is Leadenhall Market. Its ornate Victorian roof makes a dramatic setting for the festive lights, which switch on on 19 November. It’s an easy walk from Old Spitalfields Market, so you can combine the two in one trip.
Where can kids meet Santa for free in East London?
Kids can meet Santa for free in East London at Old Spitalfields Market’s Santa Sunday on 13 December. Father Christmas waits in the gateway at 61–65 Brushfield Street from 12pm to 3pm. There’s no need to book, and children who’ve been good get a small gift.
Where can I find fun things to do at Christmas with kids in East London?
You can find fun things to do at Christmas with kids in East London using Loopla’s search tool. Search by postcode, then narrow the results by age and date. Activities include grottos, pantos, family concerts and festive workshops in Bow, Hackney, Stratford, Poplar and beyond. Each listing shows the ages, dates and price, plus what the activity involves.
