London Theatre Shows in December 2025
Get into the festive spirit with Christmas shows in London! There are plenty of brand new Christmas productions to see, plus long-running shows, guaranteed to delight this December! There’s something for everyone this festive season with pantomimes, ballets, musicals, and family-friendly shows all available to book. Check out our guide to the best new shows for this festive season - fingers crossed you’ll find some theatre tickets under your tree!
68 Shows in London
Top Shows Opening and Closing in December
Not feeling festive yet? Book for darkly hilarious Tony-winning play Oh, Mary!, a tongue-in-cheek, fabulously queer history(ish!) play about Mary Todd Lincoln, or for some spooky fun, book for chilling new horror play Paranormal Activity. There’s also the pulse-racing High Noon, based on the Academy Award-winning film, where the action unfolds in real time, starring Billy Cruddup and Denise Gough. Plus, Sheridan Smith returns to the West End in Alan Ayckbourn’s Woman in Mind.
Musical fans can catch Olivier winner Jordan Fein’s revival of Sondheim’s Into the Woods at the Bridge Theatre, and Golden-Era classic Top Hat at the Southbank Centre, fresh from an acclaimed run in Chichester.
Best Christmas Shows in December
Two versions of the classic Dickens story are already available to book, with A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story returning to Alexandra Palace for some spooky Christmas fun and the Old Vic’s festive favourite A Christmas Carol also returning for its 9th year.
For dance, there’s Matthew Bourne’s sumptuous ballet The Red Shoes returning to Sadler’s Wells, as well as two brilliant Nutcrackers to choose from - the Birmingham Royal Ballet’s strictly limited run at the Royal Opera House and the English National Ballet’s beloved version at the London Colliseum, which has been entertaining theatregoers at Christmas for over 50 years!
Best Family-Friendly Shows in December
With the Christmas holidays in full swing, December is packed with family-friendly theatre that’s big on fun, spectacle and festive cheer. It’s the perfect time to start a new family tradition or keep the kids entertained during the school break.
Pantomimes, Christmas specials and magical stage adaptations like The Snowman or Elf! The Musical and a non-dance musical version of The Nutcracker take centre stage across London, while West End favourites such as The Lion King and Matilda The Musical continue to wow audiences of all ages. For younger children, there’s also Maddie Moate’s Very Curious Christmas, Julia Donaldson adaptations A Squash and a Squeeze and The Gruffalo's Child, and two kids TV favourites with both Bluey's Big Play and Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show.
December is one of the busiest months for theatre, so booking early is always a good idea, but you might still find special festive discounts, especially for weekday matinees.
Top comedy shows in December
December is packed with comedy shows that bring festive fun to the West End. For a Christmas show with a comedic twist, A Christmas Carol Goes Wrong brings a chaotic spin to the classic tale, full of mistimed cues, collapsing sets and brilliantly botched performances. For panto, there’s Cinderella at the Theatre Royal Stratford East, Jack and the Beanstalk at the Lyric Hammersmith, while the Charing Cross Theatre has a panto strictly for grown ups - Beauty and the Beast: A Horny Love Story.
With theatres buzzing in the run-up to Christmas, booking early is a smart move, though it’s still possible to find last-minute tickets at discounted prices.
What’s on in London in December
London comes alive with a special energy as the holiday season takes over in December. The city is fully in festive mode, with Christmas lights twinkling, markets buzzing, and events popping up in every corner. From ice rinks and light trails to Christmas markets and concerts, it's one of the most magical times to be in London.
Theatre takes centre stage in December, with Christmas themed shows, pantomimes and family-friendly shows running alongside West End staples. Seasonal favourites like The Nutcracker and festive concerts are also on the programme at opera houses and venues across the city.
Christmas markets at Southbank, Leicester Square and Greenwich serve up mulled wine, street food and handmade gifts, while iconic skating spots like Somerset House and Canary Wharf draw in crowds. Kew Gardens and Kenwood House become illuminated trails that turn a winter evening into something spectacular.
Major museums and galleries continue their winter exhibition runs throughout the month, a great option if you’re looking to escape the cold for a few hours. And if you’re in the city for New Year’s Eve, expect crowds, fireworks and one of the biggest celebrations in the world.
Tips for visiting London in December
Wrap up warm: Temperatures usually range from 4–9°C. Pack a warm coat, gloves, and waterproof boots, especially if you’re planning to walk between shows, shops or Christmas markets.
Book early, plan ahead: December is one of the busiest months for London theatre and festive shows, family productions, and weekend performances often sell out weeks in advance.
Public transport: Trains and buses run reliably, but can be crowded near major shopping hubs like Oxford Street. Check for reduced services over Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Where to eat: Cosy pubs, hotel lounges and restaurants offering festive menus are great options for a pre-show meal. Covent Garden, Soho and Charlotte Street are full of places with seasonal flair.
Evening vs matinee: With the sun now setting before 5pm, evening shows feel especially cosy. Matinees are also a great option if you want to catch a show before you catch dinner or take in some evening sightseeing.
