What's On in Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent

Swimming lessons with Everyone Active

Venue: Your local leisure centre

Address: Derbyshire & Staffordshire

Website: https://www.everyoneactive.com/courses-lessons/swimming-lessons/

Award-winning swimming lessons at your local Everyone Active leisure centre, for children aged from just 4 months old. Available at Moorways Sports Village and Water Park (Derby), Etwall Leisure Centre,...

Christmas at Chatsworth

Venue: Chatsworth

Website: www.chatsworth.org/events/christmas/

Immerse yourself in a Christmas feast for the senses as the magic and wonder of a new festive story, Henry and the Lion's Christmas Feast, created in partnership with Joseph Coelho OBE, inspires the sights,...

Christmas in the Garden

Venue: Chatsworth

Website: www.chatsworth.org/events/christmas-in-the-garden/

Enjoy an interactive light and sound trail around the Chatsworth Garden featuring some of its best-loved landmarks, including the historic Cascade, Rock Garden and Maze. The light trail will culminate...

Mercatum Christmas Artisan Market 2024

Venue: Haddon Hall

Address: Bakewell, Derbyshire

Website: www.haddonhall.co.uk

This year’s event will be bigger and more captivating than ever as Medieval Haddon’s beautifully-decorated courtyards, rooms and galleries play host to over 180 talented artisans and makers. Enjoy...

Magical Christmas Trail

Venue: Vicar Lane Shopping Centre

Website: www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk

Can you help Santa this Christmas? Rudolph is going on holiday so Santa needs you to pick an animal that can assist him whilst his red-nosed friend is away. Take part in the free augmented reality trail...

Jack and the Beanstalk

Venue: Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Website: www.lichfieldgarrick.com

With stunning sets, hilarious comedy, audience participation and breath-taking special effects, Jack and the Beanstalk promises to be our funniest and most spectacular pantomime ever! This fun-filled extravaganza...

Lights of Abraham

Venue: Heights of Abraham

Website: www.heightsofabraham.com/winter-lights-trail-2024

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The Magical Santa Express

Venue: Statfold Country Park

Website: www.statfold.com/magicalsantaexpress/

Join Statfold Country Park for an enchanting journey to see Santa at the ‘North Pole’ this Christmas. Be prepared to be transported to a festive wonderland aboard a beautifully lit steam train. Once...

Christmas at Apple Tree Town

Venue: Apple Tree Town

Address: Stoke, Staffordshire

Website: appletreetown.co.uk

Santa and his mischievous elf are back in their sleigh with a sack bursting at the seams and gifts for every girl and boy. The Elf Workshop will be buzzing with holiday cheer, letting kids craft some unforgettable...

Derby High Little Learners Club - Stay and Play

Venue: Derby High School

Website: derbyhigh.derby.sch.uk/pre-school/

All 2 to 4 year olds in the Derby area can join the Derby High Little Learners Club. The club runs free Stay and Play sessions every Friday morning from 9-10:30am. Parents and children are warmly invited...

Foster for East Midlands

Venue: Derby City, Derbyshire, Nottingham City, and Nottinghamshire

Website: fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk

The East Midlands urgently needs foster carers, with over 3,300 children across Derby City, Derbyshire, Nottingham City, and Nottinghamshire in need of safe homes. Local councils have launched Foster for...

Genius Tuition

Venue: Genius Tuition Derby

Address: Moore Street 

Website: www.geniustuition.co.uk

With experienced PGCE qualified teachers that have over 12 years of experience, Genius Tuition want to deliver quality teaching and learning with the aim of developing students academically and socially....

Kip McGrath in Derbyshire

Venue: Kip McGrath Education Centre Derby South

Website: www.kipmcgrath.co.uk

Kip McGrath treat students personally; building their confidence and self-esteem along the way. With qualified teachers, professional environments, Ofsted registration, weekly homework and feedback. Take...

North Pole Adventure 2024

Venue: National Forest Adventure Farm

Address: Tatenhill, Burton Upon Trent

Website: www.adventurefarm.co.uk

This magical journey transports you straight to the heart of the wondrous North Pole! Your adventure is filled with festive fun and surprises, from exploring a charming Victorian Village and decorating...

Success with S4 Swim School

Venue: S4 Swim School Venues

Website: www.s4swimschool.uk

With small group sizes, S4 Swim School promotes rapid progress, ensuring each participant receives personalised attention from experienced instructors. Upon joining, swimmers are given a swim hat,...

Cinderella Pantomime

Venue: Winding Wheel Theatre

Address: Holywell Street, Chesterfield, Derbyshire

Website: chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/shows/cinderella-pantomime/

Make a date for a midnight dance with destiny! Down on her luck and cursed with evil stepsisters, Cinderella’s destiny is in the hands of her best friend Buttons, the magic of a Fairy Godmother and a...

Breakfast with Santa

Venue: Pavilion Gardens, Tea Rooms

Address: St John's Road, Buxton

Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/breakfast-with-santa-2/

Treat the little ones to a magical start to the day! The whole family will enjoy a buffet style breakfast including tea, coffee and fruit juices, with music, colouring and a one-on-one meeting with Santa!...

Cathedral Quarter Ice Rink 2024

Venue: Cathedral Green

Website: www.derbylive.co.uk/whats-on/cathedral-quarter-ice-rink-2024

Get your skates on and glide onto this year’s ice rink at Cathedral Green, with views of the river, and a twinkling backdrop of trees.Adults and children of all abilities can enjoy whizzing around on...

Santa Special Trains

Venue: The Midland Railway – Butterley

Website: www.midlandrailway-butterley.co.uk/whats-on/santa-special-trains/

Sit back and get into the Christmas Spirit. The excitement begins as the train pulls out of Butterley Station and Santa makes his way down the carriages to visit each child at their seat. Of course, followed...

Santa's Grotto

Venue: Vicar Lane Shopping Centre

Website: www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk

Santa has travelled all the way over from the North Pole to spread festive cheer at Vicar Lane. For £8.50, every child will be able to meet the big man himself, plus receive a gift and certificate to...

The Cathedral Quarter Christmas Grotto

Venue: Derby Museum and Art Gallery

Website: derbymuseums.org/event/cqgrotto

Visit the Cathedral Quarter Christmas Grotto at Derby Museum and Art Gallery to meet the special guest, snap some photos with Santa and the elves and receive a Christmas gift, all in the magical surroundings...

Rudolph Run

Venue: Various locations

Website: www.stgileshospice.com

Join #TeamStGiles and take part in the Rudolph Run to raise funds for St Giles Hospice! Plan a date, pick your location and choose a distance which suits your school or group. By signing up you’ll receive...

Santa’s Grotto Experience

Venue: Matlock Farm Park

Address: Jaggers Lane, Near Two Dales Matlock

Website: matlockfarmpark.co.uk/coming-up/christmas-at-matlock-farm-park/

As you make your way to the grotto, you’ll enter the Christmas Canopy where your child will have the opportunity to write the most important letter of the year… to Santa Claus! You can either post...

Sing Along with Santa

Venue: Kedleston Country House

Address: DE22 5JD

Website: www.kedlestoncountryhouse.co.uk/events/#66cb40b265f55cb58

Go and meet Santa Claus in his magical grotto! Discover who has been naughty or nice, sing festive songs together, and tell him what’s on your Christmas list, with the opportunity to capture a photo...

Cinderella

Venue: Derby Arena

Address: Royal Way, Pride Park, Derby

Website: www.derbyarena.co.uk/events-and-corporate/whats-on/cinderella2024/

Everyone gets to go to the ball with Derby's annual pantomime spectacular. Cinderella has big dreams, but with her sisters digging their ugly heels in, it’s going to take help from her best friend Buttons...

Illuminated Arboretum

Venue: National Memorial Arboretum

Address: www.thenma.org.uk/what's-on/events/illuminated-arboretum

Website: Tickets on sale now for Illuminated Arboretum, the National Memorial Arboretum's spectacular winter light trail.There will be something to captivate all ages from fun hands-on elements, immersive spaces and areas for personal reflection. 

Jack and the Beanstalk

Venue: Gatehouse Theatre

Website: www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk

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Sensory Play!

Venue: Sharpe’s Pottery Museum

Address: West St, Swadlincote

Website: www.sharpespotterymuseum.org.uk/event/sensory-play-5/

Let your little ones explore the world through their senses, but don’t you worry about tidying up. Includes a range of sensory toys, paints, sand, water and other craft supplies for your child to explore!...

Storytime with Father Christmas

Venue: Chatsworth

Website: www.chatsworth.org/events/storytime-with-father-christmas/

Father Christmas will captivate little ears with the story of the first Christmas. Children will then be able to help the elves make some reindeer food and receive a small gift to take home. Includes...

Storytime with Father Christmas - Autism Friendly Session

Venue: Chatsworth

Website: www.chatsworth.org/events/storytime-with-father-christmas-quiet-session/

This is a quieter session of the Storytime with Father Christmas event, offering the same magical experience in a more relaxed environment. Includes entrance to the farmyard and playground, Father Christmas...

Breakfast with Santa

Venue: Sharpe’s Pottery Museum

Address: West St, Swadlincote

Website: www.sharpespotterymuseum.org.uk/event/breakfast-with-santa-3/

Father Christmas has, once again, taken time out of his busy schedule to visit Sharpe’s this Christmas! Bring your little ones and enjoy a wonderful breakfast courtesy of Sweet Caroline’s, have a go...

Christmas at Pickford’s House

Venue: Pickford’s House

Website: derbymuseums.org/event/christmas-at-pickfords-house

Derby Museums' popular ‘Christmas at Pickford’s House’ event returns, once again inspired by The Tiny World of Toy Theatres and the classic story ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’. Step into Pickford’s...

Christmas Fair

Venue: Pavilion Gardens

Address: St John's Road, Buxton

Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/christmas-fair/

The Octagon Hall and Lounge will have over 50 stalls offering a wonderful mix of Christmas gifts, jewellery, original artwork, photography, ceramics, woodwork, handmade cards, children’s toys and ladies...

Paddington in Peru (PG)

Venue: Buxton Opera House

Address: Water Street, Buxton

Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/paddington-in-peru-2025-pg

Paddington in Peru brings Paddington's story back to Peru, as he, and the Browns, visit his beloved Aunt Lucy. A thrilling adventure ensues when a mystery plunges them into an unexpected journey through...

Peak Village Artisan Christmas Market

Venue: Peak Village

Address: Chatsworth Road, Rowsley

Website: www.chatsworth.org/events/peak-village-artisan-christmas-market/

Enjoy the festive atmosphere and browse Christmas gifts crafted by local makers at Peak Village, Rowsley. Free entry and parking.

Messy Cathedral

Venue: Derby Cathedral

Address: Derby

Website: derbycathedral.org/events/events/messy-cathedral-christmas/

Take the children along to enjoy stories, prayer, crafts and songs. Messy Cathedral meet monthly and there is a different theme to explore at each session. Free, there will be drinks provided and you’re...

The Derby Santa Run 2024

Venue: Markeaton Park

Website: dbhc.org.uk/event/the-derby-santa-run-2024/

Whether you want to run, jog, or stroll, the 5k course is perfect for everyone! Enjoy festive tunes from the brass band, snap a photo with their lovable mascot Lambie, and explore seasonal stalls packed...

Wooden Reindeer Workshop at Biddulph Grange

Venue: Biddulph Grange Country Park

Address: Stoke on Trent

Website: www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/events/2024-12-08-wooden-reindeer-workshop-biddulph-grange

Learn how to make a beautiful, festive wooden reindeer! Please go dressed for the weather as this activity will take place completely outdoors. Please note that the cost is per reindeer made, not per person....

Jack and the Beanstalk - Autism Friendly Performance

Venue: Buxton Opera House

Address: Water Street, Buxton

Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/jack-and-the-beanstalk-autism-friendly-performance

Jack and his mother live a simple life, until one day Jack acquires some magic beans from the market and grows his very own giant beanstalk. The place he discovers at the top of the beanstalk is beyond...

Tale Trail to The Three Musketeers

Venue: New Vic Theatre

Address: Etruria Road, Newcastle-under-Lyme

Website: www.newvictheatre.org.uk/productions/tale-trail-to-the-three-musketeers/

In a small stable, meet a young boy who has become separated from his masters, the Musketeers, who are on a search to recover the Queen’s diamonds. Can you help him find the diamonds hidden along the...

Wreath Making Workshop at Biddulph Grange Country Park

Venue: Biddulph Grange Country Park

Address: Stoke on Trent

Website: www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/events/2024-12-11-wreath-making-workshop-biddulph-grange-country-park

Do you want to make a special Christmas decoration for your family or start a new annual tradition? Go and learn how to make a beautiful, festive, winter wreath! Included in your booking is a seasonal...

Christmas Jumper Day 2024

Venue: Nationwide

Website: www.savethechildren.org.uk

It’s super-simple to take part on Christmas Jumper Day. All you have to do is sign up, put the date in your calendar then on Thursday 12 December, put on your favourite Christmas jumper, donate £2 to...

The Snowman Film with Live Orchestra!

Venue: Pavilion Gardens - Buxton Octagon

Address: Buxton, Derbyshire

Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/the-snowman-film-with-live-orchestra/

Make it a Christmas to remember, with a special screening of family-favourite ‘The Snowman’ accompanied by a live orchestra. Presented by Carrot Productions – the world’s leading performers of...

Brighouse and Rastrick Christmas Concert

Venue: Buxton Opera House

Address: Water Street, Buxton

Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/brighouse-and-rastrick-christmas-concert

The world-famous Brighouse & Rastrick Brass Band return to Buxton Opera House for a fabulous festive concert that you won't want to miss. With a mix of Christmas pieces, medleys and carols to get you into...

Derwent Brass presents: Christmas at the Cathedral

Venue: Derby Cathedral

Address: Derby

Website: derbycathedral.org/events/events/derwent-brass-presents-christmas-at-the-cathedral/

The perfect family Christmas Concert, featuring a blend of festive music and carols, brought to you by the massed brass bands of the multi-award winning Derwent Brass and their special guests Derby Central...

Dick Whittington

Venue: Regent Theatre

Address: Stoke-on-Trent

Website: www.atgtickets.com/shows/dick-whittington/regent-theatre/

The Regent Theatre panto will be paved with gold! Join hero Dick Whittington (and his trusty cat!) as he seeks fame, fortune and happiness journeying to become Lord Mayor. Can he outwit the evil rodent...

Elves Winter Workshop at Peak Village

Venue: Peak Village

Address: Chatsworth Road, Rowsley

Website: www.chatsworth.org/events/elves-winter-workshop-at-peak-village/

Get in the festive spirit at Peak Village. Finish your Christmas shopping and bring the whole family for a day of free crafts, gift wrapping, decoration making, and more. Free entry and parking.

Festive Wreath Workshop

Venue: Pickford’s House

Website: derbymuseums.org/event/festive-wreath-workshop

Create your own traditional festive wreath! The wreaths can be hung on a door, or used as table decorations, making your home feel ready for Christmas. They welcome donations of foliage on the day to allow...

Rumpelstiltskin

Venue: Pavilion Arts Centre

Address: St John's Rd, Buxton

Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/rumpelstiltskin-a-buxton-opera-house-production#dates-and-times

Visit for a new spin on the traditional tale and explore Rumpel’s story as it’s never been seen before, featuring puppetry, songs, and so much more to keep your little ones entertained. Especially...

Nature Tots Carsington

Venue: Carsington Water Visitor Centre

Address: Derbyshire

Website: www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/events/2024-12-16-nature-tots-carsington

A playgroup with a difference. These sessions welcome little ones from 0 to 5 years old to get involved in fun outdoor, nature-based play. They are also a great chance for parents and guardians to meet...

The Albion Christmas Band

Venue: New Vic Theatre

Address: Etruria Road, Newcastle-under-Lyme

Website: www.newvictheatre.org.uk/productions/the-albion-christmas-band-2/

The Albion Christmas Show is a seasonal mixture of carols, spoken word and humorous readings. It really is the perfect way to start your festivities. This year will see material chosen by the band from...

Messy Play!

Venue: Sharpe’s Pottery Museum

Address: West St, Swadlincote

Website: www.sharpespotterymuseum.org.uk/event/messy-play/

Let your little ones get messy using all their senses to explore, but don’t you worry about cleaning up. Includes a range of sensory toys, paints, sand, water and other craft supplies for your child...

Nature Tots at The Avenue

Venue: The Avenue Country Park

Address: Derbyshire

Website: www.derbyshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/events/2024-12-20-nature-tots-avenue

Nature Tots is aimed at 0-5 year olds and their parents. Go on a short walk with your tot for nature connection activities. Please meet at the Avenue Country Park carpark, free event no need to book. 10-11am.

Northern Lights Sensory Forest

Venue: Victoria Centre

Website: www.victoria-centre.com

Immerse yourself in a free Nordic-inspired sensory experience at Victoria Centre. Explore the Northern Lights-themed Sensory Forest, where fun games, crafts, and interactive elements ignite your senses...

Art Club!

Venue: Sharpe’s Pottery Museum

Address: West St, Swadlincote

Website: www.sharpespotterymuseum.org.uk/event/art-club-3/

An exciting new club designed for children to explore their artistic side! Let your budding artists unleash their creativity in a fun and supportive environment, inspired by their collections, building...

Christmas Festival Derby Concert Band

Venue: Derby Cathedral

Address: Derby

Website: derbycathedral.org/events/concerts/christmas-festival-derby-concert-band/

Derby Concert Band’s Christmas Festival Concert is a traditional Christmas concert with special guests Derby Choral Union, featuring festive treats and seasonal favourites with plenty of carols to sing...

"Bramhall's Amusements" Children’s Inflatable Fun

Venue: Pavilion Gardens

Address: St John's Road, Buxton

Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/bramhalls-amusements-childrens-inflatable-fun-3/

“Bramhall’s Amusements” Children’s Inflatable Fun in the Octagon Hall! Sessions are for children age 2 years to 10 years only. Costs £6 per child plus booking fee. Advance booking is essential...

Family Nativity Service

Venue: Derby Cathedral

Address: Derby

Website: derbycathedral.org/events/special-services/family-nativity-service-4/

The short Nativity Service is ideal for young families. The Angel Gabriel narrates the Christmas story, and he is always grateful to have lots of little helpers! Your little ones are encouraged to dress...

The Muppet Christmas Carol

Venue: Buxton Opera House

Address: Water Street, Buxton

Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/the-muppet-christmas-carol-u-2025

'Tis the season for love, laughter, and one of the most cherished stories of all time! Filled with original music and dazzling special effects, The Muppet Christmas Carol will become a holiday tradition...

"Bramhall's Amusements" Children’s Inflatable Fun

Venue: Pavilion Gardens

Address: Buxton

Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/events/bramhalls-amusements-childrens-inflatable-fun-3/

“Bramhall’s Amusements” Children’s Inflatable Fun in the Octagon Hall! Sessions are for children age 2 years to 10 years only. Costs £6 per child plus booking fee. Advance booking is essential...

Taylormania - Taylor Swift All Eras

Venue: Winding Wheel Theatre

Address: Holywell Street, Chesterfield, Derbyshire

Website: chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/shows/taylormania-taylor-swift-all-eras/

An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. The show has already taken ‘Swiftie’ fans across the world by storm and features an...

Messy Play!

Venue: Sharpe’s Pottery Museum

Address: West St, Swadlincote

Website: www.sharpespotterymuseum.org.uk/event/messy-play-6/

Let your little ones get messy using all their senses to explore, but don’t you worry about cleaning up. Includes a range of sensory toys, paints, sand, water and other craft supplies for your child...

Lichfield Cathedral Choir - Choral Singing Workshop

Venue: Lichfield Cathedral

Website: www.lichfieldcathedralschool.com

Lichfield Cathedral and the Cathedral School will once again host a special free choral singing workshop on Saturday 18th January, when children aged 6-10 years from across the region can find out what...

Taylormania

Venue: Buxton Opera House

Address: Water St, Buxton

Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/taylormania#dates-and-times

An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. The show has already taken ‘Swiftie’ fans across the world by storm and features an...

Sensory Play!

Venue: Sharpe’s Pottery Museum

Address: West St, Swadlincote

Website: www.sharpespotterymuseum.org.uk/event/sensory-play-3/

Let your little ones explore the world through their senses, but don’t you worry about tidying up. Includes a range of sensory toys, paints, sand, water and other craft supplies for your child to explore!...

The Smartest Giant In Town

Venue: Buxton Opera House

Address: Water St, Buxton

Website: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/event/the-smartest-giant-in-town#dates-and-times

George wishes he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So, when he sees a new shop selling giant-sized clothes, he decides it’s time for a new look: smart trousers, smart shirt, stripy tie, shiny shoes....

H Ariana Live

Venue: Winding Wheel Theatre

Address: Holywell Street, Chesterfield, Derbyshire

Website: chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk/shows/h-ariana-live/

Celebrate the contemporary icon Ariana Grande, one of the most influential and loved artists of the generation. The sensational Hannah Thomas with her amazing band and dancers will take you on a magical...

Science Museum Live

Venue: Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Address: Castle Dyke, Lichfield

Website: www.lichfieldgarrick.com/events/science-museum-live

The Science Museum is going on tour! Experience the brand-new stage show from Mark Thompson Productions which will ignite your curiosity, fuel your imagination and inspire you in new and exciting ways....

Megaslam Wrestling

Venue: Gatehouse Theatre

Address: Eastgate Street, Stafford

Website: www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk/whatson-event/megaslam-wrestling/

In a two-hour family entertainment extravaganza like no other, the larger than life characters of Team Nasty (boo!) will battle it out with the charismatic athletes of Team Megaslam (yay!) in a show designed...

Ministry of Science Live - Science Saved The World

Venue: Regent Theatre

Address: Stoke-on-Trent

Website: www.atgtickets.com/shows/ministry-of-science-live-science-saved-the-world/regent-theatre/

Join the presenters as they dive deep into the world of science and look at how science shapes the modern world we live in with a few loud bangs along the way! 100% Educational. 200% Entertaining. 300%...

Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest Showman

Venue: Regent Theatre

Address: Stoke-on-Trent

Website: www.atgtickets.com/shows/sing-a-long-a-the-greatest-showman/regent-theatre/

Cheer on Hugh Jackman, lust after Zac Efron as you experience The Greatest Showman in the greatest way possible - with lyrics on the screen so you can join in as loud as you want. Fancy dress is strongly...

Fireman Sam - The Great Camping Adventure

Venue: Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Address: Castle Dyke, Lichfield

Website: www.lichfieldgarrick.com/events/fireman-sam-the-great-camping-adventure

Norman wants to go on an adventure, so when two famous animal explorers arrive in Pontypandy, he decides to follow them into the mountains. But when Norman discovers a rare red squirrel, one of the...

Trash!

Venue: Gatehouse Theatre

Address: Eastgate Street, Stafford

Website: www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk/whatson-event/trash/

Trash! is an energetic show about the possibilities of recycling through percussion, movement and humour. It takes place in a garbage recycling centre, where four creative workers give a new life to all...

Alice in Wonderland

Venue: Partington Theatre

Address: Glossop

Website: partingtontheatre.org.uk/event/alice-in-wonderland-directed-by-hope-davenport-freya-rowland/

This play captures the whimsical and nonsensical adventures of Alice as she navigates a surreal world populated by peculiar characters and engaging dialogues. The storyline follows Alice as she falls through...