Winter culture in London
It's the most wonderful time of the year... but it's also an expensive time, so we've compiled a list of free and low-cost activities to enjoy this festive period.
Olympic Park’s Winter Adventure
01/12/2025 – 24/12/2025
Each evening a different venue in the Olympic Park will open its doors and unlock a special, free Winter Adventure for you to experience. Expect a joyful mix of music, food, art, performance and sport with each moment celebrating east London’s creativity and the vibrant communities that make it so special. Free to attend!
Winter Light at the Southbank Centre
21/11/2025 –18/01/2026
Head to the Southbank Centre for the Winter Light exhibition. Thought-provoking installations explore themes like identity, the environment and technology, all brought to life by leading artists including Samia Halaby, David Batchelor, Rafaël Rozendaal, France Lise McGurn, Jakob Kvist, Nathaniel Rackowe, Squire & Partners, Liz West, Otecki and Tavares Strachan.
Bring your friends and family and immerse yourself in this unique celebration of light.
Free carols at the Royal Parks
6/12/2025 and 13/12/2025
Get into the festive spirit with a quartet of carol singers spreading cheer throughout the Royal Parks. This December, the parks will be welcoming a quartet of carol singers, performing festive favourites and helping to spread the joy of the season. They'll be visiting park cafes, so you can sip on a hot drink and enjoy a mince pie as the sound of carol singing fills the air.
Craft Victorian-style Christmas decorations at Guildhall art gallery
13/12/2025
Get into the festive spirit by making beautiful Victorian-style Christmas decorations at the Guildhall Art Gallery, just like the ones adorning their 12-foot tree. There will also be story sessions celebrating creativity, art and artists.
Winter Past at the Museum of the Home
18/11/2025 – 11/01/2025
Discover the homes and traditions of winters past, present and future in the annual free Winter Past - Museum of the Home exhibition.
You'll find out how seasonal festivities and personal traditions influence the way individuals spend time at home during the winter months.
LGBTQ+ Winter Market
14/12/2025
Head to the LGBTQ+ Community Centre for the LGBTQ+ Winter Market. You'll find a whole host of crafters, artists and sellers. It's the perfect place to find a unique gift for your loved ones and embrace the festive atmosphere.
Take the family to go see the Muppet Christmas Carol at the Rio Cinema
20/12/2025
The Rio’s beloved and historic Saturday Morning Picture Club is back for a special December screening of the Muppet Christmas Carol. In this magical musical adventure our favourite fuzzy puppet friends attempt to bring Christmas cheer to even the grumpiest Scrooge! Before the screening, there will be arts and crafts activities in the lobby. Tickets are just £3!