December is always a busy month in Norfolk with both Christmas and New Year’s Eve Celebrations. If you want to take advantage and join in on the fun, you’ll need to plan ahead. Don’t worry we can help with our list of the best events in Norfolk in December.
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December 2024 Norfolk Events
If you are looking for things to do in Norfolk in December, you have come to the right place. Here you will find events happening in December 2024 in Norfolk. It includes some events that are family-friendly and/or free.
It is a busy month! There will be Christmas Light Switch Ons, Christmas Markets, Pantos and other Christmas shows, and even events where you can meet Father Christmas. Unfortunately the Norwich Tunnel of Light has been cancelled for this year.
Remember there can always be last minute changes, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the details with the organization hosting the event.
Thursford Christmas Spectacular
When: 8 November – 23 December
Held at the Thursford Collection, a famous steam and fairground museum in North Norfolk, the Thursford Christmas Spectacular is the UK’s largest Christmas show. With over 5.8 million attendees to date, this incredible production features 120 performers, including many from London’s West End.
The three-hour show is packed with music, dancing, and humour, blending popular chart hits with traditional Christmas carols. It ends with a magical finale, where white doves soar through the auditorium—a perfect start to the holiday season.
Book tickets in advance here.
Read our review of the Thursford Christmas Spectacular to learn more.
Norfolk Lights Express
When: Most days 15 November – 4 January 2025
The North Norfolk Railway has a real festive treat in store – the Norfolk Lights Express! It’s an enchanting evening train journey from Sheringham to Holt, via Weybourne, with the whole family in mind. At Sheringham station, you can grab something tasty from the buffet – from hot drinks and cakes to savoury snacks and a little something stronger if you fancy!
The 5.25-mile route is lit up with beautiful festive displays, and the train itself is covered in lights, with music to add to the magic. Once you reach Holt, it turns around and heads back to Sheringham.
Get more information here. This will sell out! Read our review of the Norfolk Lights Express to learn more.
Cromer End of Pier Christmas Show
When: 16 November – 29 December
The Cromer Pier Christmas Show is a festive treat that brings all the fun of the Seaside Special summer show with a holiday twist. The historic Pavilion Theatre on Cromer Pier comes alive with a Christmas-themed variety performance, featuring plenty of singing, dancing, comedy, and more. Hosted by the ever-popular Olly Day, this family-friendly show is full of energy and festive spirit, making it a great way to celebrate the season.
Read our review of the 2021 Cromer Pier Christmas Show. Get more information on the times of the shows and buy tickets here.
Luminate Sandringham
When: 21 November – 24 December
Luminate is 1-mile long trail through Sandringham Country Park has special effects, music, and interactive installations in addition to the lights. While it takes place during the holiday season, it is not Christmas-themed. It is more of an enchanted forest experience with roasted marshmallows.
Read our Sandringham Luminate review. We go to this event every year! You can see a short video of our visit to Luminate in 2021 here and 2023 here.
Tickets must be pre-booked online in advance here.
Winter Wonderland at Norfolk Showground
When: 22 November – 5 January 2025
This winter extravaganza features an ice skating rink and much more. You can enjoy a whole host of rides, a visit with Father Christmas, Christmas tree maze, festive food and drinks, and Christmas market stalls.
Get more information and book here.
King’s Lynn Film Festival
When: 28 November – 1 December
Discover a world of cinema at the King’s Lynn Film Festival, where a range of films awaits, from international hits to family favourites and forgotten classics. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy some of your favourite movies on the big screen at the Alive Corn Exchange in King’s Lynn (unless stated otherwise) without breaking the bank.
Get more information here.
Binham Pride
When: 2 December
Binham Pride is an annual event held at Binham Village Memorial Hall to celebrate diversity and inclusion and raise money for charity. There will be an auction, tombola, and more.
Get more information here.
Aladdin at Norwich Theatre Royal
When: 7 December – 5 January 2025
A ticket to Norwich Theatre’s 2024 pantomime is the perfect wish come true. Joe Tracini returns for his fifth year, joined by Lisa Maxwell as the Evil Aunt. Tarik Frimpong stars as Aladdin, with Meesha Turner as Jazz, and Owen Evans takes on the role of the Dame.
This family-friendly show is packed with laughs, colourful costumes, and festive fun as Aladdin embarks on a magical journey. Expect plenty of audience interaction, singing, and a sparkling performance for all ages. It’s one of the best things to do in Norwich during Christmas.
Purchase tickets here. Learn more in our review of Aladdin.
Christmas Spectacular Circus and Water Show
When: most days 7 December – 5 January 2025
The Hippodrome in Great Yarmouth was named one of the seven wonders of the British seaside by Historic England. (1) Built in 1903 by the legendary circus showman George Gilbert, it is the only surviving total circus building in Britain and just one of three circuses in the world to have a water feature.
During the Christmas season, the circus is full of festive spirit. It has become one of the biggest Christmas productions in Europe. This year, Jack Jay and Ben Langley are back again with an incredible international circus cast.
It’s a family-friendly indoor show. Given the size of the small arena, there are no bad seats.
Buy tickets in advance here. You can get discounted tickets through Groupon here.
Vivaldi Four Seasons
When: 13 December
Experience the enchanting music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons performed by The Piccadilly Sinfonietta, bathed in the warm glow of candlelight, within the historic setting of St. Peter Mancroft.
Get discounted tickets here.
Christmas Day Swim in Hunstanton
When: 25 December
Come to Hunstanton in your fancy dress as there are prizes for best solo and group fancy dress. Registration is outside Alive Oasis, don’t forget your towels and warm drinks.
Get the details here.
Cromer Boxing Day Dip
When: 26 December
The North Norfolk Beach Runners are holding their annual charity dip again! There is also a fun run before the dip.
Get more details here.
New Year’s Eve
When: December 31
There will be parties all around the county to ring in the new year. Check out our guide to the best New Year’s Eve events in Norfolk.
Looking Ahead
Check out January Events in Norfolk.
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