What's New: Christmas 2016!

Food and Drink

Winter Wonderland at the South Place Hotel
South Place Hotel, from 21 November 2016
This Conran-designed hotel is celebrating Christmas in their new high-end winter wonderland with a range of different festive activities. Visit the open-air terrace and Secret Garden, featuring a Michelin-star festive menu, test out the Feasting Menu in the Chop House, enjoy an intimate Christmas film evening, complete with gourmet treats and real snowfall, and check out the collection of bespoke installations throughout the hotel, inspired by vintage travel. For more information contact raquel@scott-andco.com

Diamond in the sky Christmas Afternoon Tea
Searcys, The Gherkin, 8 and 11 December 2016 
This year, the top two floors of the Gherkin will be transformed into a sparkling Christmas extravaganza, with snowflakes, champagne, decorations and real diamonds. Searcys will be hosting three special afternoon teas, where each guest's glass will be filled not only with champagne, but also with a crystal. Most will be fake, but for one lucky guest, the crystal will be a real diamond. Enjoy a selection of handmade cakes, finger sandwiches and mince pies, and test your luck to win the gem! For more information contact emily@gribbonberry.com

Festive Afternoon Tea at Lancaster London
Lancaster London, until 26 December 2016
The hotel has devised a special afternoon tea, full of the favourites, such as fresh scones, homemade strawberry jam and Cornish clotted cream to, perfect after a long day of Christmas shopping. Expect savoury staples and sweet treats, such as champagne covered lollipops and snow-covered marshmallows, alongside a number of fresh-leaf teas. On selected dates throughout December, the Lancaster will also be running Christmas carol afternoon tea sessions with a glass of champagne to serenade guests. For more information contact danielle@luxepr.com

Christmas at The Arch London
Until 30 December 2017
The Arch London, one of the city's finest contemporary boutique hotels, is the perfect setting for an elegant Christmas lunch, dinner or party this festive season. With its warm and intimate atmosphere, stylish interiors and exceptional cuisine, guests' Christmas celebrations will be memorable. Enjoy a luxurious three course festive menu for £35 per person, and on Christmas Day, guests can enjoy a lavish five-course menu, followed by tea, coffee and mince pies, for £85 per person. For more information contact roxii@luxepr.com

One Festive Season
One Aldwych, until 31 December 2016
This Christmas at One Aldwych has something for everyone. From a festive classics cocktail collection, a special afternoon tea, inspired by 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory', a festive film and fizz movie and dinner screenings, and a champagne Christmas tree in the Lobby Bar. There is also a special lunch and evening menu available on Christmas Day at the Indigo restaurant. For more information contact neilyalimohamadi@onealdwych.com

Festive Afternoon Tea at Jumeirah Carlton Tower
Jumeirah Carlton Tower, until 31 December 2016
Relax in the Chinoiserie Lounge with entertainment from the hotel's resident harpist and enjoy a special Christmas afternoon tea daily between 3-6pm. Featuring seasonal savouries, scones and pastries, the menu is also complete with unique treats, such as a white chocolate and cinnamon Santa's hat, a coconut financier and meringue snowman, and the 'Glitter and Gold', a glazed mandarin tart with blood orange curd. For more information contact sarah.zezulka@jumeirah.com

Festive Asprey Afternoon Tea
The Langham, until 2 January 2017
Inspired by Asprey's signature brand colours of lilac and white, the Festive Asprey Afternoon Tea collection allows guests to indulge in the perfect Christmas treat from within the surroundings of the sumptuous Palm Court, prepared by Executive Pastry Chef, Cherish Finden, and team. As a pre-dessert, guests will sample a festive eggnog with rum jelly, flavoured with cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and vanilla topped with rum jelly. Expect mini gingerbread houses, Rudolf macaroons, warm scones and savoury sandwich treats. For more information contact aysem.monaco@langhamhotels.com

The Dorchester's Gingerbread Hotel and Sweet Emporium
Until 5 January 2017
This iconic British hotel has been transformed into a gingerbread replica of itself. A creation dreamt up by the hotel's executive chef Henry Brosi, the Gingerbread Hotel measures approximately 180cm in length, 150cm in height, and 95cm in width, weighing in at 150kg and features over 8,000 individual pieces of gingerbread baked by the hotel pastry team. The model of the front of the hotel is almost identical to the frontage of the world-famous building. Children visiting the hotel during December will be swept into a magical experience at the Sweet Emporium by 'Sweets in the City' tucked inside a festive nook in the lobby. For more information contact elizabeth.healey@dorchestercollection.com

Dreaming of a Pink Christmas
The Savoy, until 6 January 2017
This Christmas, The Savoy will be transformed into a frozen fantasia, featuring a magnificent 15ft Boodles-inspired Christmas tree and, for the first time in the hotel's history, an indoor ice rink and cascading bauble installation. The spectacular showcase will feature sparkling ice and diamond decorations, with Boodles' signature pink and Louis Roederer champagne festive offerings. For more information contact charlotte.faith@fairmont.com

Christmas at Hotel Café Royal
Regent Street, until 8 January 2017
Throughout the Christmas period, the Café will be offering a wonderful range of seasonal treats, available to enjoy either in the opulent Sienna marble café or to take away as gifts for family and friends. Executive pastry chef Sarah Barber has designed everything from chocolate baubles filled with chocolate popping candy, to a luxurious Christmas pudding. You can also enjoy a festive afternoon tea in the Oscar Wilde Bar, which includes sandwiches, scones, pastries, cakes and other savoury favourites, with added Christmas sparkle. For more information contact luis.neves@hotelcaferoyal.com

The Cresta Bar
The Goring, until February 2017
This winter, celebrate the spirit of The Cresta Run in St. Moritz. In winter, St. Moritz is a feast of opulence and glamour, with a history very much shaped by the British and their spirit of adventure. The cocktails are the main event, created by the masters at 'The Sunny Bar' and will include a good old fashioned 'Bullshot', a sure fire favourite 'Winter Magic Punch', a classic Lemon Fizz and a few surprises such as the 'Shuttlecock' named after the infamous turn on the Cresta Run. A special selfie wall will also be created, giving guests their own Cresta experience, but from the comfort of The Goring's veranda. For more information contact lottie.crease@mangopr.com

Gingerbread Cabin
York & Albany, until 28 February 2017
York & Albany has transformed its townhouse courtyard into a winter wonderland with a Gingerbread Cabin pop-up and specially created gingerbread inspired canapés, afternoon tea and cocktail menus. The cabin, available for private hire for groups of up to twelve guests, has been elegantly styled with festive wreaths, candles, chrome lanterns, luxurious throws and cushions to offer guests a cosy retreat this winter. For more information contact georgia.beaumont@tcs-uk.net

Forest Restaurant & Bar
Selfridges, until March 2017
Selfridges and restaurateur Des McDonald have collaborated for a sixth season on the iconic rooftop restaurant and have transformed the space into a golden, winter forest for shoppers and party goers in the festive spirit. The winter menu brings an abundance of fresh ingredients, celebrating the finest British produce and DJ's bring the party to life from Thursday through to Sunday. For more information contact sophie@neilreadingpr.com

Family fun

London Duck Tours presents - A Quackmas Carol – A Festive Tour for all the family
Selected dates throughout December
Part treasure hunt, part sight-seeing tour, climb aboard a Duck, sit back and relax as you breeze by millions of Christmas lights and take in the festive atmosphere of the capital. In addition to the classic sights of Westminster such as the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, take in the amazing lights of Piccadilly Circus before passing the phenomenal Christmas displays of Fortnum and Mason. The tour includes a London Duck Tours commemorative medal for children. For more information contact matt.watts@londonducktours.co.uk

Santa's Post Box
Stratford Shopping Centre, until 11 December 2016
Back by popular demand, the special post box returns to the shopping centre, allowing children to post their Christmas wish-list to Father Christmas. Located in the South Mall, every letter posted will receive a response, all the way from the North Pole! For more information contact lauraprior@shoppertainmentmanagement.co.uk

Winterlights
Dulwich Picture Gallery, until 18 December 2016
A spectacular winter lights trail, complete with carollers and children's storytelling will provide the ultimate festive experience. The gallery will re-open at 6pm for a site-wide installation from the creators of 'Christmas at Kew'. The grounds and historic building will be transformed with illuminations from a variety of light sources, so visitors can follow a dazzling trail and explore explosions of colour and light in trees and secluded nooks. Visitors will also see two contemporary baroque-inspired Christmas trees, by 3D art specialists 'Nagual Creations'. For more information contact l.bee@dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Christmas Board Game Making Workshop
V&A Museum of Childhood, 20 – 22 December 2016
Update the board game cabinet this Christmas with your own, personally designed game. Professional games designer James Wallis will teach you the tricks of the trade, for an afternoon of board game designing fun. Using tools and materials provided, work together as a family to come up with concepts, design the visual and decide the rules for your own game to take home and play. For more information contact j.bolitho@vam.ac.uk

Dreamworks Tours: Shrek's Adventure! London
21 December 2016 – 2 January 2017
Poppy and Branch, the happy-haired Trolls, duo will be back to celebrate Christmas with everyone's favourite ogre. Far Far Away will be having a festive makeover for guests to enjoy as they journey through the ten live-action shows and meet the locals, from Princess Fiona in the snowy magic bus depot to Doris in the Poison Apple Pub. Following a safe return to London Shrek, Poppy and Branch will be waiting to meet guests in their best Christmas outfits in a bright and beautiful Trolls-themed setting. For more information contact Emily.Parsons@merlinentertainments.biz

A Peninsula Christmas at Greenwich
Until 22 December 2016
During the festive period, Greenwich Peninsula will be offering its very own twist on Christmas, partnering with Secret Productions to create the first ever Winter Festival for everyone to enjoy. The festival is set to bring an alternative festive spirit to London; combining cultural wonders, eclectic performances from the Enchanted Forest to a Scandinavian-inspired Tepee Snug Bar via Santa's Grotto. For more information contact: anna.dixon@tcs-uk.net

Dino Snores for Kids
Natural History Museum, 23 December
This sleepover is an excellent opportunity for kids aged seven to 11 to explore the Museum after dark in a special Christmas setting. Take part in fun, educational activities with a Christmas touch and discover the T. rex hidden in shadows. It will also be the last chance to camp around Dippy the Diplodocus before it leaves Hintze Hall to prepare to go on tour. For more information contact j.mcnish@nhm.ac.uk

Victorian Santa's Grotto
Museum of London Docklands, until 23 December 2016
Experience the Sailortown gallery, transformed with festive decorations and the sound of Victorian carols being sung in the distance to get you into the Christmas spirit. Then take a trip to Santa's grotto to meet the man himself, and receive a festive gift. For more information contact kbalcombe@museumoflondon.org.uk

The Ultimate Ribmas Party
The Thames RIB Experience, until 24 December 2016
Enjoy an adrenaline-fuelled speedboat adventure down the river for the most exciting festive day out. The midweek charter during the festive period will include on-board Christmas carols via the RIB's impressive inbuilt stereo system, jolly Christmas hats, and a class of steaming mulled wine to keep you warm. For more information contact tina@thamesribexperience.com

Festive Fun with City Cruises
Until 24 December 2016
This festive season, City Cruises is set to put Santa and his reindeer to shame as its fleet gears up to travel a record 5,681 nautical miles along the River Thames. That's the journey to Lapland from London three times over. 10,000 canapés, 1,000 glasses of mulled wine and 300kg of mince pies will be served on-board throughout December, so celebrate the most wonderful time of the year while sailing past the city's most iconic sights. For more information contact julia.thomas@brightergroup.com

Meet Santa at ZSL London Zoo
Until 24 December 2016
Sprinkle some extra magic over the festive season this year by journeying through the animal kingdom to meet Santa at ZSL London Zoo. Visit Santa's Christmas grotto in the heart of the Zoo, join in arts and crafts activities with Mrs Claus, and take home a festive family portrait and special gift. ZSL London Zoo is also hosting an extra special VIP Meet Santa experience: on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 and from Wednesday 21 to Saturday 24 December, guests will get exclusive access to the Zoo before it opens to the public. They'll enjoy a delicious breakfast with Mrs Claus at the Zoo's Terrace Restaurant, before being whisked away by helpful elves to feed the reindeer and Meet Santa. For more information contact Holly.Bestley@zsl.org

Christmas at the London Dungeon
London Dungeon, until 31 December 2016
Discover the fate of real-life burglar, John Smith this Christmas. Based on the true story of the hapless London criminal, who was infamously half-hanged at Tyburn Tree, visitors will now have the chance to join the baying crowd. You can decide his fate, by choosing to be either a scrooge, or deliver a Christmas miracle and reprieve him. Guests who successfully liberate John can then celebrate his second chance with a tot of Christmas spirit in the Dungeon's Victorian Tavern, with a free festive drink. Hear the landlady tell tales of the city's Victorian Christmas crimes, to the background sound of ominous piano playing. For more information contact Mala.Mistry@merlinentertainments.biz

Thames Rocket: Jingle Bell Blast
River Thames, until 31 December 2016
It's that time of year for Thames Rockets to provide the most exciting, super-sleigh ride adventure. With a special guest to greet you at the pier, you'll be sent beholding gifts onto the speedboat and singing carols all the way during your journey through London. You'll be kept warm in a comfortable fleece lined coat while sweeping across the docklands and down the Thames. For more information contact greg@thamesrockets.com

Christmas at Kew
Kew Gardens, until 2 January 2017
The popular after-dark Christmas event returns for a fourth year, with a new mile-long trail through the famous botanic gardens, lit up with more than 60,000 lights. Pass through the sparkling tunnel of dancing lights and sing along to classic Christmas tunes with the karaoke jukebox, before ending your journey with the spectacular light, music and water display in front of the iconic Palm House. For more information contact pr@kew.org

Christmas Past
Geffrye Museum, until 8 January 2017
Each year, authentic festive decorations, lighting, music and greenery transform the Museum's period living rooms, giving visitors an insight into how Christmas has been celebrated from 1600 to the present day. The exhibition brings to life the origins and meanings of the vibrant traditions of Christmas past, from feasting and dancing to playing parlour games, decorating the tree, hanging up stockings, and sending cards. There will also be a full programme of events including craft fairs, festive evenings, carol singing and decoration workshops. Throughout the show, festive food and drinks will be on offer in the café and the shop will be stocked full of Christmas gifts. For more information contact nloader@geffrye-museum.org.uk

Hogwarts in the Snow
Warner Bros. Studio Tour, until 29 January 2017
Returning by popular demand, Harry Potter fans are invited to celebrate and experience Christmas at Hogwarts, as the Studio Tour undergoes a magical makeover. Learn how the film-makers created fire, ice and snow that never melts, and see the films series' most iconic sets decorated with a blanket of filmmaking snow and original props. For more information contact press@wbstudiotour.co.uk

Outdoor Ice Rinks

Tower of London Ice Rink
Until 3 January 2017
Skate in the grounds of London's most dramatic landmarks, and soak up the historic atmosphere at this exclusive outdoor ice-rink. For the very first time, in the heart of this world-class landmark there will be the immersive pop up Eis Haus Ice Experience. Step into the glistening bar made completely from ice, and be served from a glass made of real ice, while keeping warm in a luxury insulated coat. For more information contact rachel.powell@hrp.org.uk

Natural History Museum Ice Rink
Until 8 January 2017
Set against the backdrop of the Waterhouse building, the Ice Rink at the Natural History Museum is one of the most magical places to be this winter. Experience the thrill of skating surrounded by fairy lights nestled in frost-covered trees, with the smell of mulled wine and toasted marshmallows in the air. For more information contact j.mcnish@nhm.ac.uk

Skate at Somerset House
Until 8 January 2017
Make the most of the wintry weather as one of London's most beautiful outdoor ice rinks returns for Skate at Somerset House. In partnership with Fortnum & Mason, this icy experience is open all day and well into the evening, when the rink comes alive with special club nights featuring top DJs. You can enhance your experience with 'Skate Extras', which range from champagne and truffles to cream tea in Fortnum's Lodge. Cocktails and fondue can also be savoured. On Tuesdays, you can enjoy late-night browsing in the pop-up Fortnum & Mason store, live entertainment and festive treats. For more information contact press@somersethouse.org.uk  

Skate in the City
Broadgate Ice Rink, until 4 February 2017
Embrace the magic of Christmas in the heart of the City. Broadgate Ice Rink is just a two-minute walk from Liverpool Street Station, in the midst of an impressive array of Christmas decorations, shops, bars and restaurants. With the best street-food traders on rotation for vital skating sustenance, it's the perfect destination for a day out with friends and family, or a post-work skate with colleagues. For more information contact visit@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Christmas Markets

Christmas Fayre in partnership with Crafty Fox Market
Museum of London Docklands, 8 December 2016
Gather your friends and colleagues for a festive drink and some inspiring shopping after work. The Crafty Fox Night Market will bring a hand-picked selection of 60+ designers to showcase their work in our 200 year old warehouse. There will also be workshops so you can even make your own gifts. For more information contact kbalcombe@museumoflondon.org.uk

Cutty Sark Christmas Concert
Cutty Sark, 10 December 2016
Enjoy a festive evening underneath the ship's gleaming hull with The Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Choir. Hear many a fine tune from the choir, who beat Bieber last year to become the Christmas Number One, with 'A Bridge Over You'. Treat yourself to some mulled wine and mince pies, and don't forget to look up at the mast and admire the spectacular Christmas lights. For more information contact press@rmg.co.uk

The Limehouse Social Christmas Market
Limehouse Basin, 10 – 11 December 2016
The mission of the Limehouse Social Market is to provide a social environment in which everyone is welcome and visitors are encouraged to shop local. This Christmas, the market will be complete with baileys and hot chocolate, catchy Christmas carols, craft workshops and elves, all with the backdrop of outstanding food, a beautiful waterside location and retail traders. This year, entertainment will be provided by Alan Wolfson and Eggy Pop, and their performance poetry and open mic sessions will bring a creative flare to the market. For more information contact hello@limehousebasinmarket.com

Artisan Market
Dulwich, 10 – 11 and 17 -18 December 2016
Over these two weekends, Dulwich will host an artisan market, bringing over fifty high-quality stalls to the grounds, for the perfect Christmas shopping experience. Visitors can choose from a range of handmade crafts, jewellery, local produce, with plenty of food and drink to be enjoyed too. During the day, visitors can embrace their creative side at a drop-in Christmas bauble-making workshop, and the market will continue into the night to coincide with the Winterlights trail. For more information contact l.bee@dulwichpicturegallery.org.uk

Winter Pop-Up Market
Royal Victoria Docks, Western Gateway, until 24 December 2016
The much-loved Royal Docks street food market returns to Royal Victoria Dock, featuring food stalls piled high with festive food and drinks. While taking in the sight of East London at Christmas time, pick up some gifts and treats for your closest family and friends, and enjoy the international, festive feel. For more information contact streetfoodmarkets@gmail.com

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park
Until 2 January 2017
Returning for its 10th year, head down to this annual, family-friendly event in Hyde Park. With a huge Christmas market, a stunning ice kingdom, big-top shows, an ice rink and a host of Christmas-themed activities and fun, you're sure to feel festive in good time. New for this year is The Munich Looping, the world's largest transportable roller coaster. For more information contact anna@plus1comms.com

Christmas in Leicester Square
Until 8 January 2017
See one of London's most famous squares transformed for the festive season as part of Christmas in Leicester Square. New for 2016, the festival features a traditional Christmas market, Santa's grotto for families and a Belgian spiegeltent, where world-renowned theatre group La Soiree will be presenting a dazzling line-up of old favourites and hot new acts. Shop for gifts at the Christmas market, where you'll find crafters, artists and festive foodie treats. For more information contact chloe@thecornershoppr.com

Winter Festival, Southbank Centre
Until 25 January 2017
The Southbank Centre will be transformed into a magical Christmas landscape this winter, with a bustling market, twinkling lights and a host of seasonal events. The festival offers a packed programme of free and ticketed events for all ages – from world-class theatrical performances and festive concerts, to social dances, community choirs and activities. For more information contact press@southbankcentre.co.uk

Festive nightlife

Sink the Pink: Down the Rabbit Hole
Selfridges Theatre, until 9 December 2017
Set to be outrageously funny, but strictly for adults only, the production brings theatrical satire to the traditional pantomime, in a tale of greed, property market gone mad, fat cats and rabbits. 'Sink the Pink' are London's notorious queer movement and drag performance collective, and have been spreading love across the world for the past eight years. For more information contact bruno.barba@selfridges.co.uk  

Searcy's Knightsbridge
30 Pavilion Road, Knightsbridge
To celebrate the festive season this year, the elegant Georgian townhouse, home to Searcy's Knightsbridge will be transformed into an enchanted Christmas advent calendar, where guests can enjoy the finest Christmas experiences. In order to gain access to one of the Advent doors, guests will have to win them in Christmas crackers, featured on the dining room tables. Behind each door will be a range of gifts, from mini bottles of champagne, games and masquerade masks, all designed to enhance the evening's entertainment. For more information contact james@soaringww.com

Christmas at Dirty Martini
Venues across London
Cocktail bar Dirty Martini will be celebrating Christmas this year at each of their London venues, including at their new venue, Minories, located in the heart of the City. From special Christmas cocktails and festive food menus, to perfect party space available to hire, you can also join a Christmas cocktail masterclass. For £30, and a drink on arrival, allow a bartender to teach you how to make two cocktails, and enjoy a festive sharing patter throughout the class. For more information contact amelia.pidwell@cgrestaurants.com

A Place in Time
Maman le Mot, every Friday and Saturday until Christmas
'A Place in Time' has changed the traditional Christmas party formula, offering a unique event package with a 1940s Parisian theme. Guests will be completely immersed in the experience, and are requested to come in their best French disguise for spy training, immersion into French culture and then a party to celebrate their first missions. For more information contact suzanne.hobday@palm-pr.com

Party with a lion and wardrobe this Christmas at Lee Valley
Lee Valley, 15 – 16 December 2016
A lion, a wardrobe and a winter wonderland scene will be the setting for party-goers at Lee Valley Water Centre at this year's Christmas party fair. The Narnia themed Christmas parties are available for corporate or group bookings, with a three-course meal and wine from £35 per person. Live music and a Christmas market, as well as a chance to visit Santa will also be part of the seasonal fun. For more information contact: mday@vibrantpartnerships.co.uk

The View from The Shard
Until December 31 2016
The tallest building in Western Europe has unveiled a programme of Christmas wonder, from carol singing to champagne and even a cinematic classic. The open-air Skydeck on Level 72 will also be transformed into a serene winter hideaway. You can experience 360-degree views for up to 40 miles, with winter plants, pine trees and twinkling lights. Warm-up with a drink from the 'design your own' hot chocolate bar or enjoy a glass of champagne and Christmas carols on Level 69. For more information contact klara.zakis@diffusionpr.com

Apres Ski Lodge
The London EDITION, until 31 December 2016
This basement venue will be transformed into a fantastical après ski lodge this winter. Expect a cosy wood-panelled chalet, complete with snug throws, lanterns and antler heads, in the heart of central London. Guests will sip on a selection of punches from award winning bar, the Punch Room, including 'Dickins Hot Punch' -with earl grey tea and grapefruit and lemon oleum – and prosecco. Sharing boards of cheese, charcuterie and crudities will be served alongside bowls of risotto and warming pie from The Berners Tavern kitchen. For more information contact miles.harris@purplepr.com

Scottish Winter Terrace
Jumeirah Carlton Tower, until 25 January 2017
Enjoy the finest whiskies this festive season at The Scottish Winter Terrace. The Rib Room heated terrace will be transformed into a space that celebrates Scottish outdoor pursuits and craftsmanship and guests can enjoy live music from the resident band every Friday and Saturday evening. A range of small batch, rare and aged whiskies are on offer, as well as a selection of heart-warming festive cocktails. For more information contact sarah.zezulka@jumeirah.com

Entertainment

Stand up Comedy from The 99 Club
The Strand Palace Hotel, selected dates in December
Celebrate Christmas with a giggle from resident comedy partners, The 99 Club. The show, 'Grand with all the Trimmings', features high quality comedians seen on shows such as Mock the Week, Have I Got News for You and Michael McIntyre's Comedy Roadshow. Guest will be greeted with a drink on arrival, a two course Christmas dinner and a post-show DJ to dance the night away. For more information contact suzy@mason-williams.com

John Rutter's Christmas Celebration
Royal Albert Hall, 8 December
Nominated as a finalist in the 2016 Group Travel Awards for 'Best Event for Groups', this is undoubtedly a firm Yuletide favourite. Featuring sing-along carols and an array of festive works, John Rutter conducts the much-loved Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and The Bach Choir in this symphonic Christmas event. 'From Hark! The Herald Angels Sing' and rousing fanfares, to John Rutter's famous festive quiz, these two concerts are brimming full of sparkle and Christmas cheer! For more information contact marksa@rpo.co.uk

Dick Whittington
New Wimbledon Theatre, 9 December – 15 January 2017
Renowned choreographer Arlene Phillips will be making her pantomime debut this Christmas, performing as Fairy Bowbells in the home of London pantomime. The family-fun show will be packed with big song and dance numbers, the always-popular audience participation, impressive sets and fairytale costumes. For more information contact info@amandamalpass.com

A Kylie Christmas
Royal Albert Hall, 9 – 10 December 2016
After a debut headline performance at the Royal Albert Hall last year, Australian pop princess returns to London for two dates this Christmas. Singing atop the Hall's tree, this performance will feature a range of the best Christmas classics, as well as some of Kylie's biggest hits. She will be joined on stage with a full orchestra and the National Youth Choir of Great Britain. For more information contact rickb@royalalberthall.com     

The Little Match Girl
Lilian Baylis Studio, 10 – 30 December 2016
Following a sell-out season last year, celebrated director and choreographer Arthur Pita brings his magical dance theatre show back to Sadler's Wells this Christmas. Based on Hans Christian Andersen's classic story, this tale of a young street girl's hopes and dreams is beautifully told through dance, song and original live music. For more information contact caroline.ansdell@sadlerswells.com

English National Ballet, The Nutcracker
London Coliseum, 14 December – 7 January 2017
Step into the enchanted Land of Snow this winter, as Tchaikovsky's festive ballet, Nutcracker, returns to the London Coliseum. Featuring more than 100 mesmerising dancers and world-class musicians from the English National Ballet, as well as stunning sets and Tchaikovsky's famous score, this ballet continues to enthral all ages. For more information contact press@ballet.org.uk

Handel & Hendrix Christmas Showcase
Handel House, 15 December 2016
Celebrate the Christmas season with a special concert at St. George's Hanover Square. Six members of the Handel House Talent program will perform a variety of Baroque music, both as soloists and ensembles. You can also enjoy a world premiere of the Composer-in-Residence commission of new music for Handel House, all in a church that has such a rich connection to Handel and the Georgian period. For more information contact sdoherty@handelhendrix.org

Father Christmas at the Hall
Royal Albert Hall, until 24 December 2016
This interactive festive experience will provide a magical adventure through the stunning surrounds of the Royal Albert Hall. A Victorian doorkeeper, who knows all of the Hall's secrets will lead you through the grounds, and together you will solve puzzles and follow clues to find the key to Father Christmas's grotto, where a wonderful visit awaits. For more information contact rickb@royalalberthall.com

Rooftop Winter Cinema
The Berkeley, until 26 December 2016
This Knightsbridge hotel will transform its rooftop garden into a pine-filled forest cinema this winter. Guests can enjoy festive classics on the big screen, while keeping warm with feather Moncler blankets and hot-water bottles. To complete the festive atmosphere, homemade hot chocolate, mulled wine, mince pies and festive biscuits can be enjoyed, while watching 'Miracle on 34th Street' or 'Santa Clause the Movie'. There will also be four handmade wooden chalet-inspired cabins, so you can comfortably watch the movie high above Knightsbridge and overlooking Hyde Park. For more information contact ojohnson@maybourne.com

Christmas Spectacular
Royal Albert Hall, 27 – 30 December 2016
This unique show boasts a non-stop selection of Christmas favourites performed by an all-star cast, with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, singers Claire Rutter and Peter Auty, the Jingle Belle Dancers and the Russian State Ballet of Siberia led by conductor John Rigby, all in the beautiful surroundings of the Royal Albert Hall. For more information contact rickb@royalalberthall.com

The Snowman
Peacock Theatre, until 1 January 2017
An enduring Christmas tradition at the Peacock theatre, and returning for a record-breaking 19th consecutive year, The Snowman guarantees audiences will feel full of joy and Christmas spirit. This production, from the Birmingham Repertory Theatre is a wonderful family favourite, with its wonderful mix of storytelling, spectacle and magic, based on the book by Raymond Briggs. For more information contact caroline.ansdell@sadlerswells.com

The Royal Ballet, The Nutcracker
Royal Opera House, until 12 January 2017
Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky's famous score as the enchanting world of The Nutcracker is brought to life at the Royal Opera House. Expect breath-taking sets inspired by 19th-century Christmas images, sparkling stage effects with a Christmas tree that grows before your eyes, and famous melodies in Peter Wright's spectacular production. For more information contact camilla.staubyn@roh.org.uk

Sinbad the Sailor
Theatre Royal Stratford East, until 21 January 2017
The company's annual pantomime will be directed by Olivier-nominated and award-winning playwright, Paul Sirett. With a tradition of featuring original music, hilarious audience participation and comedy for all ages, this is one of the best pantomimes in London. There will be lots of surprises on the way, so join Sinbad and his friends on a voyage to mysterious places, as they strive to complete their perilous quest. For more information contact kwalker@stratfordeast.com

The Red Shoes
Sadler's Wells, until 29 January 2017  
A beloved fairy tale and Academy Award-winning movie, The Red Shoes has inspired generations of dancers with its story of obsession, possession and one girl's dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Victoria Page lives to dance, but her ambitions become a battleground between the two men who inspire her passion. This world premiere production by Sadler's Wells' Associate Artist Matthew Bourne, is set to a score using the mesmerising music of composer Bernard Herrmann, and played live by the New Adventures Orchestra. For more information contact caroline.ansdell@sadlerswells.com