December in Suffolk is a time of warm gatherings, vibrant celebrations, and community spirit. From carol singing to Christmas markets, Suffolk is alive with cultural festivities that everyone can enjoy without stretching their budget.
Here’s a guide to some must-visit events -
Christmas Tree Festival
Where: Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich
When: Tuesday 26 November – Sunday 5 January
Get in the festive spirit as Christchurch Mansion is filled with beautifully decorated trees! Celebrate some of our wonderful Communities in Ipswich—each community group has worked together to create decorations for the Christmas Trees.
This event is suitable for all ages and is completely free. The trees will be located on both the ground floor and the first floor, which requires access via stairs.
Click here to find out more - https://ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk/events/christmas-tree-festival/
Christmas Crafts and Letter Writing
Where: East Point Pavilion, Lowestoft
When: various dates through November and December
Join East Point Pavilion for free Christmas crafts, including pompom making, creating Christmas cards, and festive drama games. Don’t forget to post your letter to Father Christmas in their special post box and come back on December 14 to receive your reply.
Click here to find out more - https://www.eastpointpavilion.com/events
Cocoa, Crafts, and Christmas Classics Movie Marathon
Where: Ipswich County Library, Ipswich
When: Sunday 8 December
Cosy up with loved ones and enjoy an enchanting lineup of holiday classics that are sure to warm your heart. We’ll kick things off with The Polar Express, a thrilling animated adventure that will transport you straight to the North Pole. Next, dive into the fun and heartwarming Arthur Christmas, where Santa’s clumsy son races to save Christmas. Finally, laugh along with the delightful Muppets Christmas Carol, a charming twist on the classic tale with all your favourite Muppet characters.
While the movies roll, indulge in delicious hot chocolate to keep you warm and toasty. Plus, between screenings, we’ll have festive craft activities that will inspire your Christmas creativity! Whether you want to make your own holiday decorations or create fun keepsakes, these activities are perfect for kids and adults alike.
Click here to find out more - https://getcreative.suffolklibraries.co.uk/things-to-do/cocoa-crafts-08-12
Exhibition: The Snowman™ and The Snowdog
Where: The Hold, Ipswich
When: Friday 25 October 2024 - Saturday 18 January 2025
This delightful exhibition is a visual treat for all ages. It features over 40 original illustrations from the film, along with behind-the-scenes drawings and preparatory sketches. These unique pieces, based on characters created by Raymond Briggs, offer a fascinating insight into the creative processes involved in bringing The Snowman™ back to life for a new generation of viewers.
Tickets prices range between free to £5.
Click here to find out more - https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ticketshop/iframe/event.php?eventhash=e-mbeoek&target=&iframe=true
Christmas Carnival
Where: Haverhill Arts Centre, Haverhill
When: Saturday 30 November
Haverhill Town Council invite you to attend their Christmas Carnival – don’t miss fairground rides, a maker’s market, and craft fair. Round off your visit with the Christmas lights switch on and free fireworks display!
Click here to find out more - https://haverhillartscentre.co.uk/performance/christmas-fireworks/
Christmas Cabin – Santa’s Red Nose Rescue
Where: Arc Shopping Centre, Bury St Edmunds
When: Friday 29 November to Tuesday 24 December
Theatre Royal’s Christmas Cabin is back for its third year! A festive, interactive mini-performance for children aged 2-7 and their families.
Step inside Santa’s living room as he prepares for the biggest night of the year, Christmas Eve! But just as Santa is wrapping the final presents and packing up the sleigh, there’s a problem… One of his reindeer is feeling poorly and without them, the magical sleigh can’t deliver the presents! Help Santa and the reindeer take to the skies and complete their Christmas quest.
Tickets from £5. Click here to find out more - https://theatreroyal.org/events/santas-red-nose-rescue/
Father Christmas sails into Snape Quay
Where: Snape Maltings, Snape
When: Saturday 14 December
A firm favourite in the Britten Pears Arts Christmas calendar, come and join us to greet Father Christmas as he sails around the narrows of the winding River Alde and disembarks at Snape Maltings Quay.
As well as welcoming Father Christmas, there’s all kind of free and low cost musical fun at Snape Maltings this winter.
Click here to find out more - https://www.brittenpearsarts.org/events/father-christmas-sails-into-snape-quay
Let’s Dance! Holiday Club
Where: DanceEast, Ipswich
When: Friday 3 to Saturday 4 January
Filled with creative dance sessions, Let’s Dance! Holiday Club is a fun, energetic and imaginative way for children and young people to learn and express themselves through movement. DanceEast will provide a nutritious hot lunch, healthy snack, and drink, as well as arts and crafts activities. It’s a great chance for young people to form new friendships, build confidence and develop fresh new skills.
Free places are available to those on income/benefit related Free School Meals.
Click here to find out more - https://www.danceeast.co.uk/workshops/lets-dance-holiday-club/
Plan a few outings, bring friends and family, and enjoy Suffolk's festive offering without stretching the budget!