London's Best Events In December 2024

It doesn't matter whether you're truly swept up in the feel-good festive spirit or you're more anti-yuletide than Mr Scrooge himself, there's definitely something for you in our list of the best events and things to do in December. A hand-picked guide stocked with Christmas pop-up cinema, fondue fun and Alpine boozy brunches, get out there and make the most of this winter in London.

Last edited by Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 16th December 2024




Best New Year's Eve Events In London

Looking for things to do on New Year's Eve in London? Why, do we have the guide for you. From banging bottomless brunches to kick start your celebrations through to swanky restaurants and quirky-as-can-be parties, there's a lot to sink your teeth into.

The Best Igloos In London 2024

While it may be frightfully cold out, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy alfresco drinking and dining. Say hello to London's igloo pop-ups that promise of cute and cosy interiors, cracking grub and, of course, killer cocktails to boot.

Most Festive Things To Do In London At Christmas

Perhaps the biggest thing going on in December? Christmas, of course. And if you're after the best things to do and the most fun Christmas events in London, then you'll want to check out our guides to all things yuletide.

From Christmas theatre shows to themed brunches and afternoon teas, as well festive film screenings while floating in a hot tub, there's a jam-packed roster of everything Christmas-related this month.

Christmas At Ballie - Ballie Ballerson

@ Ballie Ballerson, London on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd December 2024

One of the best things to do this December in Shoreditch, Ballie Ballerson are providing one of the quirkiest experiences in the city complete with huge ball pits, pizza slices and brunch parties to remember. There'll be themed cocktails, festive nibbles and access to the pit starting from £6.50 per person. 

Marilyn: The Exhibition

Marilyn: The Exhibition is coming to London Bridge between October 2024 and February 2025, showcasing over 250 artefacts from the star's personal estate, collected by Ted Stampfer over the years - many of which have been in storage for decades.

Get to know Marilyn like never before, through her clothes, love letters and make up. You can nab tickets for as little as £27 per person, with VIP experiences available too.

Breakfast with Santa at art'otel Battersea

@ Art'otel London Battersea on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd December 2024

Celebrate the magic of Christmas with your family at Breakfast with Santa at the art'otel Battersea. Taking place every weekend from the 30th of November to the 22nd of December, this festive experience offers a delicious breakfast buffet in a beautifully decorated setting.

Little ones will enjoy a meet-and-greet with Santa, receive a special gift, and listen to a cosy storytime session. To top it all off, there will be photo opportunities with Santa himself. Perfect for creating holiday memories, tickets are £35 per child, and the event runs from 9am to 11am.

Avora: A New-World Cocktail Experience

@ Roscorp Laboratories on Various dates from Saturday 21st December 2024

Uncover mythical lands and befriend local residents to discover secrets as part of this fantastical immersive cocktail bar in Hoxton. Tickets to Avora: A New-World Cocktail Experience start from £42.50 each and include one hour and 45 minutes of exploration, three bespoke tipples and plenty of photo opportunities. Receive your mission brief from Dr C. Shelly, zip up your jumpsuit and embark through a film-like set via exotic foliage to save the day. 

Fabulous Brunch Events London

Taking place at top-notch venues across the capital in December, Bougie Drag & Boy Toy Events London is a great choice for those of you after a little fun. Whether you're heading to a Britney, Gaga or Buff Bingo bottomless brunch, expect there to plenty of live entertainment. Plus, there are plenty of Christmas options too.

Garage Brunch

Trying to find a killer party in December? Spend an afternoon in style at Garage Brunch's event in a secret London location. You will get the chance to sing and dance, all while enjoying a two course meal and bottomless cocktails.

Club Curling

@ Coal Drops Yard on Various dates from Saturday 21st December 2024

Glow up your winter at Club Curling at this Coal Drops Yard pop-up is a holiday hit, and this year it's even brighter, thanks to God's Own Junkyard and their neon collab with @RealHackneyDave.

Take your shot under the sign that says 'King's Cross Is Always A Good Idea,' and make it a group event - DJ sets, cocktails, and curling fun await, with lanes for six and prices starting at £9 per person.

Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair

25% off Afternoon Tea

Having won an Award of Excellence at the Afternoon Tea Awards for their outstanding service, it's safe to say that The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel knows what they're doing when it comes to this quintessential pastime. This month, they're hosting a special Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea that'll get you in the festive spirit, with warming hot drinks and dainty seasonal treats to enjoy. This experience will set you back £75 per person, or why not add on a glass of Champagne for £10 extra?

London Bridge Rooftop Bottomless Après Brunch

@ London Bridge Rooftop on Saturday 21st December 2024 and 14 other Saturdays

Having undergone a winter-ready makeover with their Après Bar, London Bridge Rooftop is the perfect place to head to if you want to get in the seasonal spirit this December. Expect Aperol-coloured ski lift gondola seating, lights galore, vintage ski gear and memorabilia, and all the covered, heated and blanket-laden space you'll need.

Their bottomless Après Brunch is also a hit, featuring breakfast-style burgers alongside fries and 90 minutes of unlimited drinks like Aperol spritzes and beer.

The London Cabaret Club

Enjoy a night of festive entertainment at The London Cabaret Club this December. Their dazzling Bond-themed Christmas show will be the immersive experience of the year, with premium tickets including Champagne, themed cocktails, a three-course meal and more. 

'Hot Tub Boat Cinema' | Skuna Boats

@ Skuna Boats on Sunday 22nd December 2024 and 2 other dates

Movie nights just got a whole lot hotter. The Hot Tub Film Club by Skuna Boats is back this winter, inviting you to float down the river, snacks at the ready, and enjoy some classic films while chilling (or rather warming up) in a 38°C hot tub. With Canary Wharf's skyline twinkling around you, this is not your average night at the movies.

For £35, you get a ticket, popcorn, and access to lockers and changing rooms. Slip into your swimsuit and catch festive flicks like Elf, and Home Alone.

BOUGIE DRAG EVENTS

Party with some of the fiercest queens around at Bougie Drag Events, who host bottomless brunches and dinners across venues in Vauxhall and Embankment. Each session promises four hours of fantastic entertainment, including lip-syncing, catwalk contests and more.

Get involved in fun competitions for the chance to win over £200 worth of prizes. While you're here, you'll also get to enjoy 90 minutes of unlimited drinks and a delicious dish to top it off.

The Escapologist

The Escapologist is the place to be on a Saturday... especially if you love Mamma Mia. Buckle up for a musical basement rave fuelled by bottomless cocktails, delicious food and ABBA anthems. As for the surprise host? It's a hilarious cabaret drag queen. 

Rouges 70's & 80's Disco and Funk

Get on your flares and shimmy on down to Rivoli Ballroom for a night of disco and funk festivities. Expect all the classics from the 70s and 80s played within the gorgeous Grade II-listed building, along with two bars to keep you hydrated throughout.

Humbug: The Immersive Christmas Dive Bar

@ The Truman Brewery on Various dates from Saturday 21st December 2024

Humbug: The Immersive Christmas Dive Bar is back in town for 2024, promising non-stop mischief, festive decor and even a shrine to Queen Mariah. Expect plenty of naughty and nice surprises throughout as Santa brings the energy to this Brick Lane party.

You'll find this quirky pop-up inside The Truman Brewery, complete with DJs playing seasonal, sing-along tunes. There are plenty of themed cocktails up for grabs too, with tickets starting from £35.

plonk

Looking to get a little activity date in the diary this December? Plonk's crazy golf experience is spread across various London locations, bringing you hole-after-hole of hilarious putting challenges and photo-worthy decor.

Haus Of Cabaret

Proud City are brightening up those December days with their cabaret performances, include festive themes, Secret Burlesque Society for the ultimate opulence and the darker, kinkier and more circus-led Kabaret Expose. Expect British meals or a 10-course tasting menu while you dine, plus weekend drag brunches complete with two courses and bottomless prosecco.

Forbidden Nights - Male Strip Show London

@ Forbidden Nights London on Saturday 11th January 2025 and 42 other Saturdays

Round up your crew and get ready for an unforgettable night at the Forbidden Nights Male Strip Show. This December, catch these dazzling performers (and their impressive abs) live and in action - if you loved them on Britain's Got Talent, now's your chance to see the magic up close.

Tickets start from just £25, which not only gets you a front-row seat to the show but also entry to the sizzling after-party at Infernos London. Expect hot moves, belly laughs, photo ops, and endless fun. Grab your tickets now and prepare for a night that gets your heart racing.

The Winter Gin Garden: Sipping History

@ 4th Floor, Ham Yard Hotel on Saturday 21st and Tuesday 31st December 2024

Found on the fourth floor of Ham Yard Hotel, The Winter Gin Garden is a cute rooftop spot where you can enjoy tasty eats and wintery drinks this December. Tickets start from £20 per person, including two drinks and your entry to the cosy space.

Enjoy creative cocktails like the Milk Punch or a Hot Chocolata, in collaboration with Sipsmith. Plus, you can munch your way through a menu of cacio e pepe and black truffle flatbreads, soy-glazed mushroom skewers and more.

Sounds Familiar Music Quiz

Escape the winter chill and take part in the hottest music quiz in town. The Sounds Familiar Music Quiz is an event unlike any other, with questions spanning genres and decades, a plethora of quirky activities and an unbeatable party vibe. 

Hip Hop Brunch LDN

It wouldn't be Christmas without a little karaoke. This December, head to a secret location in London and celebrate Hip Hop Brunch LDN's event. They're bringing three course meals, free flowing drinks and a whole lot of dancing and music throughout the evening.

Old School R&B Brunch

Old School R&B Brunch is back in London this December, giving you the chance to enjoy a slice of tropical paradise to escape the winter chill. Expect to find a buzzing atmosphere, fuelled with soul food, bottomless punch and party tunes.

The Chocolate Cocktail Club

The Chocolate Cocktail Club is a must-visit in Farringdon, serving up delicious Chocotinis, drinks served in edible reindeers and other tasty creations. This quirky bar is the ideal location for a hen do, birthday, or even just a treat for you chocolate lovers out there. You can also treat yourself to a sumptuous afternoon tea here for as little as £25, as well as 90-minute cocktail making masterclasses.

Crazy Boules

@ Sacred London: Shoreditch on Various dates from Saturday 21st December 2024

Ideal for date nights and groups of friends alike, Crazy Boules is a quirky activity bar that offers its own unique twist on the game - think petanque meets crazy golf. Their six indoor courses feature plenty of jumps, ramps and corners, while the venue is filled with neon lights and colourful decor.

You can book your space for as little as £11 per person, and after your game, be sure to unwind in the bar with a few delicious cocktails.

Mr Fogg's

if you're after fun and unique events this month, then be sure to check out Mr Fogg's This weird and wonderful venue is found in Soho, home to a regular lineup of quirky happenings. Their botanical brunches are always a hit, or try out some boozy sessions with their gin tasting and cocktail masterclasses.

They also host a number of immersive events, including a Victorian Murder Mystery where you'll work as a team to narrow down the culprit. They also offer a treasure hunt experience, using your puzzle-solving skills to crack the clues.

Lost In Light

@ Curtain Call on Various dates from Saturday 21st December 2024

Fancy doing something a little different this month? Then head to Lost in Light, taking place at Curtain Call in Shoreditch. This unique immersive experience takes place from Thursday to Saturday each week, costing £23 for an hour-long session. Artists Squidsoup and talented DJ Four Tet have collaborated to create this mesmerising performance, using light and sound in amazing ways.

Moonshine Saloon: Western Cocktail Experience

@ Moonshine Saloon on Various dates from Saturday 21st December 2024

Perfect for festive gatherings and quirky get-togethers, this stunning cocktail experience offers you the chance to take it back to the rugged landscape of the Wild West. Get totally immersed and play at smuggler in this incredible pop up, just watch out for the local Sheriff.

Albert's Schloss London

For brilliant live entertainment seven days a week, check out Albert's Schloss in the West End. This bustling Bavarian-themed bar is all about fantastic live music and cabaret shows, from DJs and dancing on Saturday nights to pianists taking requests on Wednesdays. You can also enjoy a delicious Sunday roast paired with a musical performance here, and there's tasty German fare and brilliant beer available all week long.

The Rosemary Branch Theatre

Kick off the festive season with a trip to the theatre. The Rosemary Branch in Islington has all manner of plays, comedy, puppetry, burlesque, cabaret and more lined up for you, whether you're looking for a wholesome evening out with the family or a raucous night of fun.

Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: London on Various dates from Saturday 21st December 2024

Offering up one of the most unique drinking experiences in the capital, a visit to one of Alcotraz's prison-themed cocktail bars is certainly one for the bucket list. Part immersive event, part big old booze up, you'll be tasked with smuggling, sipping and avoiding the watchful eye of the warden.

The Rhythm and Booze Project

Fancy warming your insides on unlimited drams this December? Then it's got to be the highly-rated Rhythm and Booze Project, which you'll find taking over Crol and Co in Bermondsey. Expect an experience fusing a live blues gig with an open whisky bar, meaning you can try unlimited drams across a unique tasting experience.

Backyard Comedy Club

Ease into the festive season with some low-key laughs. Head over to Bethnal Green where the Backyard Comedy Club is showing you the lighter side of life with a top-notch line-up of fresh talent and established names giving you the giggles.

Christmas in Chelsea

@ Royal Hospital Chelsea on Various dates from Saturday 21st December 2024

Step into a winter wonderland at the Royal Hospital Chelsea's light trail, a festive experience for every occasion. With illuminated trees, glowing tunnels, and sparkling Christmas displays, the grounds are transformed into a dazzling holiday escape. 

The festive market offers unique gifts and treats, with artisans showcasing everything from handmade jewellery to gourmet snacks. Don't miss the chance to enjoy crispy churros with rich chocolate sauce or a warming drink to round out your festive evening.

Nikki's

This December, head to Nikki's where you'll find plenty of unique Christmas events. From the Bad Santa singsong to an epic drag queen battle with a festive twist, the quirky East London bar has plenty of naughty yet nice happenings up its sleeve. 

Barrio Bars

With venues across the city, there's no way you can miss out Barrio's packed schedule of fun festive events. Join them this December as they get into the yuletide spirit with Latin fiestas, bottomless lunches and drinks specials all celebrating the most wonderful time of the year. 

SUPA DUPA FLY

Treat yo' self to the best December events in London when you head to venues across the city for hip hop, RnB and 90s hits from Supa Dupa Fly. There's weekly club nights with the very best DJs and even a New Year's Eve special at All Star Lanes, keeping you dancing the whole month long.

Sky Garden

On the hunt for cool rooftop events in Central London? Sky Garden is making sure your agenda is well and truly packed with a whole host of exciting goings-on. Whether you fancy live music nights (plus the chance to upgrade to a VIP experience perfect for special occasions), sunrise entry, yoga sessions or breakfasts, this place has plenty to do while admiring those views from the top of 20 Fenchurch Street.

The Big Bakes

Mark the festive season with the most wholesome activity of all: baking. At The Big Bakes in Tooting or Haggerston, you'll pair up in the hopes of whisking, folding and rolling your way to a winning bake. 

JOIA Rooftop Christmas Movie Pop Up & Dinner at art'otel London Battersea Power Station

@ Joia on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd December 2024

Get right into the festive feels this December with a trip to Portuguese restaurant JOIA at art'otel London Battersea Power Station. Their rooftop overlooks the iconic landmark, and it's up there that you'll be enjoying a Christmas movie pop-up after chowing down on a meal or a Sunday lunch.

Choose between individual seats or upgrade to cuddle up on cosy two-person sofa, with film choices like The Holiday, Love Actually, White Christmas, Elf and more in store. Better yet? Hot toddies and nougat-flavoured popcorn to tuck into.

Bongo's Bingo London

Get ready to sing along to throwback tunes and take part in dance-offs at Bongo's Bingo: the quirky bingo event with plenty of boozy fun. This takes place in Soho, London Bridge and Clapham Junction, with tickets starting from as little as £16 each. There's all kinds of audience participation involved, and you could even win everything from a karaoke machine to a Henry Hoover.