Christmas Pantomimes & Spectacular Shows
Dr Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas the Musical
Leeds Playhouse | 19th Nov 2026 to 16th Jan 2027
Following its Broadway success, this brand-new UK production is packed full of charm and humour. Narrated by his loyal dog Max, the story follows the misadventures of the Grinch as he tries to steal Christmas from the residents of Who-ville. A festive musical for the whole family!
Northern Ballet’s Cinderella
Leeds Grand Theatre | 15th Dec 2026 to 2nd Jan 2027
This timeless tale take centre stage for Christmas, with live music, breath-taking choreography and a perfectly fitting slipper.
Rapunzel: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto
City Varieties Music Hall | 27th Nov 2026 to 10th Jan 2027
Turn your average pantomime experience up to 11 with Rapunzel: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto at the world-famous City Varieties Music Hall. Cheesy jokes, laugh-out-loud audience participation, and every iconic rock anthems and chart-smashing hit played on stage by a showstopping cast of multi-talented actor-musicians.
Jack and the Beanstalk
Carriageworks Theatre | 20th Nov 2026 to 3rd Jan 2027
For the ultimate traditional family pantomime, Carriageworks Theatre is back with Jack and the Beanstalk for 2026. Follow Jack as she takes a chance on a handful of mysterious beans… featuring stunning costumes, toe-tapping musical numbers and a heartwarming story of bravery and family… with guest star Sir Kevin Sinfield voicing the Giant!
A Christmas Carol
Howard Assembly Room | 18th to 24th Dec 2026
This magical musical retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas story, featuring members of the Chorus of Opera North, is a brand new production conceived with the intimate splendour of the Victorian Howard Assembly Room in mind.
Sorry, Christmas is Cancelled… Katie Saves The Day
Carriageworks Theatre | 12th to 31st Dec 2026
Join Katie on this interactive seasonal treat to help her and Father Christmas save Christmas after all the presents in Santa’s Grotto are stolen. From the same team behind Christopher’s Christmas, this show is made especially for children aged 2-7 (and their big people too).
Red Robin’s Winter Song
Leeds Playhouse | 12th and 23rd Dec 2026
A delightful and gentle play designed for children aged 3 upwards, Red Robin’s Winter Song follows a brave little Red Robin hears a mysterious song on the winter wind – one that leads to new friendships, unexpected discoveries, and a special place to call home.
Step Into Christmas
Leeds Grand Theatre | 4th Dec 2026
After a sensational run last Christmas, Step Into Christmas returns bigger, brighter and more festive than ever before. This spectacular Christmas concert is the ultimate way to kickstart your festive celebrations, packed with your favourite Christmas classics played by a live band.
Oh Yes It Is
Leeds Playhouse | 2nd and 3rd Dec 2026
Bright Sparks Theatre Company are back for another roller-coaster of a Christmas show, with a pantomime-inspired story of positivity and love. At the Enchanted Castle, trouble is brewing. The Princess has gone missing, Peter Pan has forgotten how to fly, and the Fairy Godmother has lost her wand.
A Christmas Carol – As Told By Marley (Deceased)
The Old Woollen | 6th Dec 2026
Winner of Best Performer in Theatre at the Fringe Report Awards, this take on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is told from the perspective of Scrooge’s deceased business partner, and has been hailed as one of the top Christmas shows in the UK.
Jack and the Beanstalk On Ice
Planet Ice | 11th Dec
Planet Ice presents a spectacular rendition of Jack & The Beanstalk, brought to life by the Show & Skate class of amateur skaters and supported by their Professional on Tour cast. A must-see event that captures the spirit of adventure and holiday cheer, perfect for the festive season.
Mrs Doubtfire
Leeds Grand Theatre | 10th to 29th Nov 2026
The West End’s hit comedy musical Mrs Doubtfire is heading to Leeds for an early festive treat, featuring all your favourite iconic moments from the beloved film, plus fabulous new songs and dance numbers.
Paranormal Activity
Leeds Playhouse | 9th to 24th Dec 2026
If your feeling a bit bah humbug, then check out Paranormal Activity over the festive period. This highly rated West End hit, inspired by the iconic film series, is a chilling production promising to keep you on the edge of your seat from the start.
Clinton Baptiste’s Christmas Presence
The Wardrobe | 8th to 10th Dec 2026
Clinton Baptiste, the useless clairvoyant medium psychic from Peter Kay’s smash hit comedy Phoenix Nights, is back to deliver an exclusive seasonal treat featuring the best of his recent work plus some brand-new bits.
Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty in a Sparkling Show
Riley Smith Theatre, University of Leeds | 20th Dec
The beloved tale of Sleeping Beauty is brought to life with classical dance, stunning choreography, and beautiful glow-in-the-dark costumes.
Christmas Carols & Candlelight Concerts
Viennese Christmas Spectacular by Candlelight
Leeds Minster | 14th Nov & 18th Dec
Enjoy a programme of Viennese opera and orchestral favourites from Johann Strauss II, Tchaikovsky, Korngold and more, for an evening of elegance, nostalgia and festive delight.
The Christmas Orchestra
Leeds Minster | 20th Nov
Discover the atmosphere, music and unforgettable moments from The Christmas Orchestra, a live orchestra playing Christmas classics at the historic Leeds Minster.
Home Alone in Concert: presented by Opera North
Leeds Grand Theatre | 13th Dec
One of the most beloved Christmas comedies, Home Alone comes alive with the Orchestra and Chorus of Opera North performing John Williams’ charming score alongside a screening of the movie.
Carols in the Abbey
Kirkstall Abbey | 13th Dec
The Heritage Singers return to one of Leeds’ most iconic venues for a concert of carols from festive favourites to Christmas classics.
Nine Lessons and Carols
Leeds Minster | 13th Dec
Enjoy traditional readings, anthems and carols with the choir of Leeds Minster.
Candlelight Christmas: Love Actually, Home Alone & More
Leeds City Museum | 18th Dec
Under the gentle glow of candlelight in the Leeds City Museum’s Brodrick Hall, enjoy some Christmas classics from Holiday Inn’s White Christmas, Carol of the Bells from Home Alone, and The Nightmare Before Christmas Medley, all played by a string quartet.
Candlelight: Christmas Classics
Leeds City Museum | 18th Dec
An evening of Christmas classics with a string quartet awaits, with songs like Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Last Christmas by Wham!, and Jingle Bells.
Joy to the World Service
Leeds Minster | 19th Dec
Join the Joy Choir at Leeds Minster for an early evening Carol service with contemporary songs.
Carols and Readings
St John’s | 20th Dec
Head to the oldest church in Leeds to enjoy a traditional Christmas service with carols and readings from the clergy and choir of Leeds Minster.
Festive Gigs & Live Music
The Pogues
O2 Academy Leeds | 1st December
Following the success of their anniversary tours, The Pogues are back at the O2 Academy Leeds with original members and special guests musicians, to perform the best of their songbook.
Electric Six
O2 Academy Leeds | 2nd December
The cult American rock band’s blend of disco, punk, new wave and garage rock with their tongue-in-cheek lyrics, is a great excuse for an night out in Leeds!
Dave Hill’s Slade
O2 Academy Leeds | 8th December
With a roller-coaster ride of pure unadulterated rock ‘n’ roll and a dynamic stage performance, Slade’s six decade career is full of hits perfect for a fun night in Leeds.
The Darkness
first direct bank arena | 9th December
Enjoy a night of unforgettable rock ‘n’ roll with The Darkness, and special guests Brothers Osborne, with hits like I Believe in a Thing Called Love, Growing on Me and many more!
Shed Seven
O2 Academy Leeds | 12th & 13th December
Yorkshire heroes Shed Seven return for two nights of ‘Shedcember’, the definitive start to the festive season.