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 2023 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 2023 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
Thursford is a small village in North Norfolk that is home to the Thursford Collection, one of the world’s most important steam and fairground museums. It also hosts popular summer and winter shows that attract visitors from around the UK.
To date, Thursford’s Christmas Spectacular has entertained over 5.8 million making it the largest Christmas show in the country. Many of its 120 cast members have performed in London’s West End.
The three-hour show combines non-stop singing, dancing, music, and humour. Expect to hear popular chart toppers along with traditional Christmas carols. The finale even includes white doves flying across the auditorium.
Book tickets in advance here. Read our Thursford Christmas Spectacular review to learn more.
Norfolk Lights Express
When: 10 November – 1 January 2024
The North Norfolk Railway offers a festive treat – the Norfolk Lights Express, a dazzling evening train ride from Sheringham to Holt via Weybourne. This family-friendly holiday event features a well-stocked buffet at Sheringham station for hot and cold refreshments, including alcohol, soft drinks, cakes, and savoury snacks. The 5.25-mile route showcases beautifully lit festive displays, with the train itself adorned in lights and a special soundtrack to enhance the experience. After reaching Holt, the train turns back to Sheringham.
Get more information here. This will sell out! Read our Norfolk Lights Express review to find out more.
Luminate Sandringham
When: 11 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. You can see a short video of our visit to Luminate in 2021 here. We went again in 2022 and plan on going again in 2023.
Tickets must be pre-booked online in advance here. It is a bit cheaper if you can go Monday through Wednesday before 8th December. There is also the option to get a family ticket.
Winter Wonderland at Norfolk Showground
When: 17 November – 3 January 2024
This winter extravaganza features an ice skating rink and much more. You can enjoy a whole host of rides, a visit with Father Christmas, and festive food and drinks. Ice skating should be booked in advance, it is not included in admission. Ride credits also need to be purchased separately.
Get more information and book here.
Cromer End of Pier Christmas Show
When: 25 November – 30 December
The Cromer Pier Christmas Show is just as fun as the summer Cromer Pier show.
The historic Cromer Pier is home to the Pavilion Theatre. While it hosts fantastic entertainment, like the famous Seaside Special, all year long, during the holiday season they have a special Christmas-themed show.
Olly Day is back as host. Expect a high-energy variety show with singing, dancing, comedy, and more. It’s family-friendly too.
Read our review of the 2021 Cromer Pier Christmas Show. Get more information on the times of the shows and buy tickets here.
Art Fair East
When: 30 November – 3 December
You won’t want to miss one of the region’s largest and liveliest art events. Hundreds of artworks by international and regional talent will be on display at St Andrews Hall in Norwich. It’s a great opportunity to meet many artists and experts in person.
Get more information here.
Winter Beer & Gin Festival at the Pannoyer Centre
When: 1 – 3 December
Enjoy local real ale from the barrel on offer and 12 unique gins at this years’ Winter Beer & Gin Festival. They will also have a full range of wines, spirits and of course soft drinks for the designated drivers. Food will be available for purchase from local vendors throughout the weekend.
Get more information here.
Read about more beer festivals in Norfolk.
Binham Pride
When: 4 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.
Sleeping Beauty Panto at Norwich Theatre Royal
When: 9 December – 7 January 2024
An all-star cast will take to the Norwich Theatre Royal stage to perform the panto, Sleeping Beauty. It tells the story of how the Queen and Fairy work to save our Sleeping Beauty, with a prince in tow and despite the efforts of the Evil Fairy.
You can expect all the traditional pantomime ingredients including energetic songs, a live band, magic, mesmerizing dance routines, slapstick comedy, and plenty of audience participation. The show is perfect for all ages and it’s one of the best things to do in Norwich during Christmas.
Joe Tracini, who played Tommy the Cat in 2021’s Dick Whittington Panto and Jack in 2022’s Jack and the Beanstalk returns to play The Fairy. Norwich’s favourite panto dame Richard Gauntlett is also back. It also features Beverley Callard as The Evil Fairy.
Purchase tickets here. Read our Sleeping Beauty review here.
Panto Bottomless Brunch
When: 9 December
There are pantos happening all across Norfolk, but this one is different. It includes brunch and bottomless drinks at Pogue Mahon’s! Get more information here. Book asap as spots are going fast.
You might also enjoy our post about bottomless brunches in Norwich.
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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