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01.11.2025 – 04.01.2026

8 Festive activities to do with friends

Get ready to unwrap the magic of Christmas in the City of London

The heart of the capital will come to life with a kaleidoscope of offerings from rich historical experiences and entertaining workshops to delectable festive treats and magical dining feasts. Immerse yourself in a world of holiday cheer with this selection of festive experiences.

Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival at the Barbican

Date: 20 December 2025 to 1 January 2026 | Cost: £

It's the most wonderful time of the year, as the Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival returns to the Barbican Hall. Get in the Christmas Spirit with Christmas movie soundtracks from John Williams and Hans Zimmer, Christmas Carol singalongs, concerts and more.

Find out more and book tickets

Dabbers Social Bingo

Date: Several dates | Cost: £

Whether you’re in charge of organising the office party or planning a night out with friends, Dabbers Social Bingo City has got the perfect festive bingo show for you. With live entertainment, London’s finest DJs, charismatic hosts, dazzling dancers, delicious cocktails, and mouthwatering street food, Dabbers Social Bingo promises an unforgettable celebration.

Book tickets

Aldgate in Winter Festival

Date: 4 & 5 December | Cost: Free

Join the community at Aldgate Square for a jam-packed festival programme including lantern parades, live performances, and creative workshops.

Find out more

Explore the City's Christmas Markets

Discover the magic of the holiday season with enchanting Christmas markets, sparkling festive lights, and a wide array of shopping experiences throughout the City. From unique handcrafted gifts to elegant luxury items, find the perfect treasures for your loved ones amidst the shimmering lights and lush seasonal decorations.

Find out more

Festive Dining in the City

Get your friends together for a festive inspired feast, from panoramic yuletide afternoon tea at Searcys at The Gherkin to luxurious holiday dinners at Pan Pacific London, and much more. For an unforgettable experience, visit Mercer’s cosy winter igloos on the rooftop terrace. Read our guide to find some of the best places to eat and drink this holiday seasons.

Read our guide

Carols and Concerts

Date: Multiple Dates | Cost: Mixture of free and ticketed events

Get in the Christmas Spirit with Christmas Movie soundtracks, family concerts and Christmas Carols at stunning locations. Whether you're looking for a cosy candlelight concert, a carol singalong at a tucked away church, or a well-deserved mulled wine and mince pie after all that singing, we have everything to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Read our guide

Museum Lates at Dr Johnson's House

Date: 20 November 5.30 to 7pm | Cost: £14

Enjoy Candlelit Christmas drinks in Dr Johnson's enchanting and atmospheric 17th-century House of Words! Dr Johnson is one of the greatest literary figures of the 18th century and compiled his Dictionary of the English Language at his home in Gough Square. You can browse all the rooms and sit down on the chairs and window seats to soak up the atmosphere in what was still the tallest building in the area during WWII.

Find Out More

F1 Arcade

Date: Ongoing | Cost: From £19.95pp

F1 Arcade have decked the halls, ready for you to come and join them to celebrate the festive season. With all-new festive cocktails and seasonal sharing plates on the menu, plus live DJs playing all your favourite hits – F1 Arcade is where it’s at this Christmas!

Find Out More

Keep an eye on this page for more festive fun activities coming soon

See the full Christmas in the City programme

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