Best Events In London: December 2026

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By Scarlett Welch Editor, DesignMyNight Scarlett has covered the UK's best restaurants, bars and events for DesignMyNight since 2023. She holds an MA in Media & Journalism, with bylines in The Crack magazine and South London News, among others. Last updated on 23rd July 2026

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 in London.

We've created a hand-picked guide stocked with Christmas pop-up cinemas, fondue fun and Alpine boozy brunches, get out there and make the most of this winter.

Find out more about how we curated this guide in our Editorial Policy.

December 2026 In London: Best Things To Do, Events And Activities




Christmas Events In December London

Best New Year's Eve Events In London 2026

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 London Igloos For 2026

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.

Silent Disco Christmas Special

@ The Silent Disco Boat on Saturday 19th December 2026

Following 10 sold-out dates throughout the year, Silent Sounds are finishing the season off with a bang. Their Silent Disco Christmas special takes place on a two-storey boat complete with bars and live DJs, who'll be playing festive tunes directly into your headphones.

Sing along to Mariah Carey and other Christmas classics, choosing your own channel, while you float past some of London's most iconic landmarks on this four-hour cruise.

Food, Drink And Nightlife Events In December

The Hip Hop Orchestra Brunch - Shoreditch

@ Blues Kitchen Shoreditch on Every Saturday

Whether you're feeling worse after too much festive cheer or looking to get well and truly into the holiday spirit, the Hip Hop Orchestra Brunch has got just what you need. Think non-stop anthems spanning hip hop, afrobeats and RnB from live DJs and the incredible Re:Imagined Orchestra.

To keep you dancing from the first minute to the last, there's fuel in the form of burgers and BBQ, plus 90 minutes of bottomless booze. Tickets to this epic afternoon start from just £16.50.

Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair

Complimentary Bottle of Champagne for parties of 6+ adults and 2 other offers

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?

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.

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

Discounts available on certain events

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. 

BOUGIE DRAG EVENTS LTD

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.

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.

Circe's Rooftop

Celebrate the festive season above it all at Circe's Rooftop, where London's skyline sparkles just for you. Whether you're planning a pre-Christmas catch-up or an end-of-year bash, this spot blends mythological elegance with full-on winter magic.

For the ultimate December celebration, gather your crew and reserve a Cloud 9 Pod. These heated, star-lit igloos are made for festive fun, complete with curated menus, fairy lights, Grey Goose cocktails, and private music. December in London doesn't get cosier (or cooler) than this.

Rouges 70's & 80's Disco and Funk

Dance on into the holiday season at Rouges 70's & 80's Disco and Funk night. Under the iconic domes of the Rivoli Ballroom, you'll boogie to the defining tunes of the decades.

In charge of the soundtrack, DJ Kobayashi will keep the dancefloor full all the way through to 2am. Grab your tickets to get down from just £17.60.

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.

London's Ultimate Baking & Cocktail Competition

@ Bake Master London on Saturday 8th August 2026 and 13 other Saturdays

Looking for a quirky date idea this month, or a fun outing with a friend? Then check out The Ultimate Baking Challenge, hosted by Bake Master. This is an 80-minute session, where you'll get the chance to bake and decorate your very own three-tier cake.

They can cater to all dietary requirements, and you can choose whatever toppings you like. There's tie for photos included, as well as a cocktail or mocktail making section, with other drinks available to purchase throughout.

Big Top 90's VS 00's Brunch

@ Trapeze on Saturday 8th August 2026 and 64 other Saturdays

Swap your Christmas jumper for double denim at the 90's VS 00's Bottomless Brunch. The faded circus glamour of Trapeze's main bar is coming alive with all the biggest hits and best-loved remixes of the past two decades.

The resident ringmaster will lead you through three hours of live singalongs, lip sync battles, conga lines and epic dance offs. Tickets start from just from £43.94 and include 90 minutes of bottomless booze.

Ballie Ballerson London

Discounts available on certain events

Shoreditch's iconic club Ballie Ballerson may be best known for its Instagrammable ball pit, but did you know that they also host all kinds of events? They've got a lineup of weekly goings-on, from bottomless brunches to huge Saturday parties and even nights dedicated to girl band classics.

There are also some special events for this month, including Christmas mass karaoke, where drag queens will be hosting sing-along fun on stage. Plus, there's a cracking New Year's Eve party to check out.

Experiences And Entertainment This December

The Kino Show: Showgirls in Film

@ The Bedford on Sun, 20th Dec 2026 @ 17:00 - 20:00

The Kino Show invites you to step into a world of feathers, sequins, smoke-filled cabarets and brilliant burlesque. This sensational performance celebrates iconic showgirls from over the years - from the artistry of Sally Rand and Josephine Baker to the allure of Golden Age icons like Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth.

Expect plenty of cracking tunes along the way, from the likes of Chicago, The Last Showgirl and Moulin Rouge, among others. Grab your tickets from just £17.60.

Hexmoor: Wizarding Prison

@ Hexmoor: London on Various dates from Tuesday 4th August 2026

Looking for something totally unique to spice up your December plans? Then head to Hexmoor in Hoxton, the world's first immersive wizarding prison. This quirky experience was created by the team behind Alcotraz, Avora and Moonshine Saloon, promising interactive theatre and gorgeous set design.

Don your official jumpsuit and lose yourself in a world of mystery and the dark arts, with plenty of magical surprises along the way. You'll work with the inmates to free yourselves from the prison, all while enjoying three delicious cocktails as part of your ticket price.

Fabulous Brunch Events

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.

Sounds Familiar Music Quiz - London

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.

The Christmas edition promises festive tunes aplenty, as well as a vibrant atmosphere. Tickets start from just £20, and groups of all sizes are welcome. Find them in the West End, Islington and beyond.

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.

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.

Rivoli Pop up Cinema

If Will Ferrell, Bruce Willis and Macaulay Culkin are your dream Christmas dinner guests, you're in luck. They're all set to appear at Rivoli Pop Up Cinema this festive season. 

The iconic 1950s ballroom is screening Elf, Die Hard, Home Alone and Gremlins across the 20th and 21st December, so grab your popcorn and your tackiest jumper for a nostalgic night in front of the silver screen. 

Hip Hop Brunch™

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.

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.

Moonshine Saloon: Western Cocktail Experience

@ Moonshine Saloon on Various dates from Tuesday 4th August 2026

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.

The Murdér Express Part Deux -Jewel Of The Empire

@ Pedley Street Station on Various dates from Thursday 6th August 2026

Add a little mystery to your festive celebrations this year with a ticket to The Murdér Express. Climb aboard an old-school train carriage (at your own risk) and embark on an immersive dinner set in the early 20th century, where you'll be watching a crime investigation unfold between courses - and even joining in some sleuthing yourselves. 

Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: London on Various dates from Monday 3rd August 2026

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.

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.

Forbidden Nights - Male Strip Show London

@ Forbidden Nights London on Saturday 15th August 2026 and 54 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any unique or unusual December events in London?

Yes - London's December calendar goes well beyond Christmas markets. Alcotraz is a fully immersive prison-themed cocktail bar where guests smuggle in spirits and mix their own drinks. The Magic Hour is an exclusive close-up magic show hosted at the Sheraton Grand Park Lane and Andaz Shoreditch. For something theatrical, Forbidden Nights Male Strip Show runs this month. The Candlelight Club brings Gatsby-era 1920s jazz nights with dinner add-ons, and Garage Brunch hosts a secret-location afternoon party with a two-course meal and bottomless cocktails.

What December events in London are good for groups or Christmas parties?

Several events on the DesignMyNight December list are ideal for groups. Flight Club in Victoria offers interactive darts oches with bottomless drinks - perfect for a work do. Lodge d'Argent, the ski chalet pop-up at rooftop bar Coq d'Argent, can be hired privately for up to eight people with fondue and Courvoisier cocktails. Proud Cabaret City is hosting Rock the Belles for a bottomless brunch with RnB and dancing. The Sounds Familiar Music Quiz welcomes groups of all sizes from £20pp, and Biscuiteers' festive workshops are a fun hands-on option for smaller parties.

What's on in London between Christmas and New Year?

While specific dates vary year to year, London typically offers continued runs of West End shows, immersive experiences, and festive pop-ups throughout this period. Events featured in the DesignMyNight December guide - including Alcotraz, The Magic Hour, and The Candlelight Club - run across the full month, making them solid options for this quieter window. It's worth checking individual listings for exact dates, as some events pause over Christmas Day itself.

Are there free things to do in London in December?

Yes - not everything in December London requires a ticket. The city's Christmas lights are free to enjoy, with Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street and Covent Garden all putting on spectacular displays throughout the month. Many of London's world-class museums remain free year-round, including the British Museum, V&A and Natural History Museum, which often have seasonal programming.