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Christmas is over… ‘Oh no it isn’t!’ Festive activities are slowly coming back to save our traditional holiday, as businesses are changing their plans to suit the current rules.
We are seeing socially distanced pantomimes, Christmas walks, light displays and car park entertainment, all designed to keep us safe but feeling festive in the lead up to Christmas 2020.
During the summer we teamed up with Car Park Parties, who put together a series of car park shows. These involved car park karaoke, Horrible Histories, 80s sing-a-long, plus so much more.
They are back for Christmas with their Horrible Histories Christmas extravaganza!
Although we won’t be serving at this series of events (it’s a little chilly for ice pops), we are still so excited to see what the team will do. Check out their upcoming events here.
When we thought theatre pantos were over, Cheltenham Everyman Theatre has saved the day with their reduced capacity viewing of Jack and the Beanstalk.
Tweedy and the cast will be back to bring festive feels and inappropriate laughter as they plan to celebrate ‘their best pantomime ever’.
Whilst we are talking about Cheltenham, we must mention The Outdoor Inn. They are perfect for a festive drink with your nearest and dearest.
These stunning social domes can be found on St James’s street and come with a great party package to enjoy for 2 hours with 5 of your friends/family or colleagues.
You will have to book to avoid disappointment.
A similar set up can be found on the Southbank, London in the form of Jimmy’s lodge.
Known as the ‘Pop up star’, Jimmy Garcia is renowned for his innovative and exciting pop ups including their festive inspired Christmas Lodge.
Customers can enjoy private dining in the domes along the river or relax in the socially distanced alpine style restaurant.
The ultimate way to enjoy good food and a steaming mulled cider.
Alternatively, you could enjoy a similar experience in the Tobacco Dock London Skylight domes, found on the mezzanine level and level 11.
Along with the cosy domes you can have a skate on their rooftop rink or relax with a cocktail in the heated bar.
That’s Christmas drinks sorted!
Hampton Court Palace is the ultimate backdrop for a festive skating session. Many ice rinks have cancelled their spots for this year, but so far so good, Hampton Court are taking bookings.
Whether you want to enjoy a romantic evening of skating under the stars or treat your little ones to a day on the rink with a hot chocolate, this is the picture-perfect place to do it.
Magical lighting and festive feels go hand in hand, which is why we have picked out some stunning walks and immersive experiences ready for you to enjoy this winter.
The first being the Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum.
As they gather their thoughts following a breath-taking Autumn, Westonbirt prepare for Christmas with their very own West Pole.
Set off amongst the trees and their mesmerising light displays, as you meet Santa’s little helpers and explore the Candy Cane Forest. You might even catch a glimpse of the big man himself!
Each year Longleat offers the most spectacular lantern display named the Festival of Light. With a different theme each year, the estate puts on a real display of beauty and imagination.
This takes months to set up, and unfortunately because of COVID the festival is no longer able to take place. However, they have replaced the lanterns with immersive light installations for the whole family to enjoy.
Children will also love the train ride through the breath-taking estate up to Santa’s Grotto, where he will read a festive story.
The gardens at Wisley come alive at night as you make your way around the festive trail complete with festive music.
They have a brand-new, longer route to suit the guidelines, so the magic can last longer.
Surround yourself with sparkle, at the Christmas at Stourhead after-dark lights trail.
Starting the 27th November, you can enjoy festive music and tree canopies engulfed in colour. You will find giant baubles and snowflakes, trees wrapped in ribbon, along with a tunnel of twinkling lights.
As if Sudeley Castle wasn’t beautiful enough as it is, they are adding even more pizzazz with their dazzling illuminations.
Themed on The Nutcracker, you will find spectacular water features, light beams, lanterns, plus so much more.
It’s back for its eighth year, with an enchanting winter train and their illuminated rose garden.
Kew gardens light up their already stunning venue with light installations that sparkle and glow, bringing festive cheer for their visitors.
The glittering tunnel and bells and majestic trees are not to be missed!
When it comes to imagination and excitement, Legoland has it in abundance. This year, you can experience the magic of Legoland with added festive excitement.
Enjoy the twinkling lights, snowy pine trees and seasonal festivities to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Fancy meeting Father Christmas and his little helpers at Chessington this year? Grab your nearest and dearest and take a trip to enjoy the their socially distanced festive fun.
Their show this year is based on the Gruffalo, which is great for the whole family.
Many dream of the day that they can visit Lapland and see the big man for themself, however it’s a very long way away, and travel isn’t exactly on everyone’s list this year.
Why not experience Lapland without leaving the country and travel to Ascot? You can visit the secret world of elves in a 4-hour experience as they tell the Christmas story and offer interactive activities.
Tulleys Farm have adapted their usual festivities and set up their very own Carpark Panto!
The show will feature Snowflake the Elf, Simon Stamp (Father Christmases very own postmaster) and Mr Claus himself!
There will be Gingerbread kits and build a bear, and a chance to write a note to Santa.
Peter Pan will be at Hever Castle this year, chasing his shadow and enticing you to the magical world of Neverland.
Take a magical journey through their grounds with twinkling lights, which will take you from Wendy’s nursery, through the nights sky, past the second star to the right and straight on until morning to Neverland.
It’s important to note, that none of the activities/venues above are sponsoring this post. During this kind of time, it’s so important to support each other and encourage imaginative activities.
If you have anything exciting coming up this Christmas, please feel free to email us on hola@wearepops.com to tell us more. We will be happy to share your upcoming activities.
To all a good Christmas and a more successful New Year!
Photo credits: Leftfield Images, Visit Wiltshire, Hever Castle, Not Another Mummy Blogger, Sudeley Castle, Longleat
