As the festive season approaches, Hampshire is ready to dazzle visitors with an array of Christmas shows and festive attractions. From enchanting pantomimes to captivating outdoor performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this magical time of year. Join us on a journey through Christmas Shows and Pantos to see in Hampshire 2023 that promise to make your Christmas truly special.
Christmas Shows
Come along to Beaulieu this festive season for a fun, theatrical day out that all the family will enjoy, together! Watch fun rehearsals of the Montagu family pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk, inside the beautifully decorated Palace House, or catch the magic of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol performed outdoors in the Beaulieu Abbey.
Celebrate the yuletide season with a traditional Christmas Concert from 2023 National-Finalists Otterbourne Brass Band, at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens on 7th December at 7.30pm. The band is celebrating its 100th anniversary, having provided quality music to Winchester and beyond since 1923.
Hawk Conservancy TrustSee Father Christmas and his magical owls at the Hawk Conservancy Trust for a festive show like no other! Will you help the owls, alongside Evergreen the elf, save Christmas? Included in your ticket: tuck into supper, enjoy an interactive flying display, PLUS a gift for all the children!
Steam Illuminations returns to The Watercress Line (November to January). Experience an incredible light show on and in a steam train, consisting of thousands of coloured lights and LED wristbands, creating a kaleidoscope of different colours and flashing patterns. New for 2023 ‘Canopy of Lights’ a sound to light show inside every carriage.
Join Santa and the Polar Explorers at Birdworld’s ‘Adventure Stories from the North Pole’ show (image above), included in entry ticket price! Meet Horatio the Polar Bear, a warm and magical friend of Santa’s. He’s travelled all the way from the North Pole! Horatio is excited to meet friendly faces, share Christmas stories, and tell you about his special job as the Guardian of The Gifts. Everyone will make a wish to send them to the North Pole while Santa has photos with the children, and the elves entertain and delight visitors young and old, ensuring everyone leaves with a warm, seasonal smile.
Get ready for a Christmas Immersive Journey at Tapnell Farm. With Christmas fast approaching and the clock ever ticking down to the big day, there seems to be a glitch with the North Pole Elves not receiving mail. Santa has called on children who send their Christmas letters to help him track down the mail, find Sonny the snowman, and save Christmas in time! Selected dates between 1st – 24th December.
Panto
Cinderella at Theatre Royal WinchesterBetween 30th November – 1st January, Theatre Royal Winchester’s traditional family pantomime this year is Cinderella – the rags to riches story of a servant girl turned beautiful princess who meets a handsome prince at the ball, only to disappear at midnight. Packed with corny jokes, original songs, live music and audience participation, the panto is suitable for the whole family. A livestream, watch at home, option is also available.
Don’t miss the South Coast’s biggest pantomime this year! Catch Ashley Banjo & Diversity and Christopher Biggins as they star in Mayflower Theatre’s spectacular festive panto, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Book now or you won’t be able to look yourself in the mirror!
New Theatre RoyalJordan Productions return to New Theatre Royal Portsmouth for the third year! Once again bringing stunning sets, hilarious jokes and slick choreography. Join them for Aladdin, the genie-us pantomime that takes the whole family on a magical carpet ride like no other! Don’t miss this fabulous festive family treat that’s guaranteed to make all your wishes come true! 8-31 December.
The Christmas shows, pantomimes, and attractions mentioned here are just a taste of what Hampshire has to offer. Whether you’re attending a Christmas concert or taking your family to a captivating performance, you’re sure to create cherished memories. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Hampshire is ready to make it even more special for you.
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