Festive Family Fun: Pantomime & Christmas Shows

The festive season is fast approaching — and what better way to celebrate than with a pantomime or Christmas show filled with laughter, sparkle, and a touch of magic? From traditional tales and musical adventures to interactive shows for little ones, Essex theatres and venues are bursting with festive fun this year. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a school holiday treat, or a special evening to get into the Christmas spirit, we’ve gathered the very best pantomimes and Christmas performances across the county for 2025.

1. Mother Goose

Venue: Mercury Theatre
Town: Colchester
Date: 22nd November – 18th January
Price: From £10.00
Description: Roll up, roll up for the greatest show on earth! To celebrate ten golden years of the legendary duo Antony Stuart-Hicks and Dale Superville, the Mercury Theatre present the mother of all pantos – Mother Goose!
Website: Mother Goose

2. The Ho Ho Ho! Mrs Christmas Show

Venue: Mercury Theatre
Town: Colchester
Date: 2nd December – 24th December
Price: From £10.50
Description: It’s the annual North Pole Yuletide Party and you’re all invited! Mrs Christmas is making all the preparations, but things aren’t going as planned. Mrs Christmas and the Elves will need your help to make sure everything is ready before Father Christmas arrives for the celebrations. Full of fun, magic and wonder, it’s the perfect festive treat for all the family to enjoy together!
Website: The Ho Ho Ho! Mrs Christmas Show

3. Aladdin

Venue: Chelmsford Theatre
Town: Chelmsford
Date: 28th November – 4th January
Price: From £18
Description: Flying into Chelmsford is our 2025 pantomime with all the ingredients of a perfect family Christmas treat. Join Aladdin and his friends as they face off against a wicked sorcerer, find magic rings, meet genies, and embark on a hilarious adventure filled with boos, cheers, and Christmas sparkle!
Website: Aladdin

4. Sleeping Beauty

Venue: Harlow Playhouse
Town: Harlow
Date: 28th November – 4th January
Price: From £17.00
Description: Let the magic unfold this Christmas with the enchanting pantomime Sleeping Beauty. In the kingdom of ‘Harlowtopia,’ a beautiful princess awaits her true love’s kiss. With wicked fairies, brave heroes, and plenty of booing, hissing, and laughter, this magical show promises fun for all the family with toe-tapping tunes and spectacular costumes.
Website: Sleeping Beauty

5. The Tailor of Gloucester with Christmas Dinner

Venue: Layer Marney Tower
Town: Colchester
Date: 4th – 7th December
Price: From £81
Description: Step into the enchanting world of The Tailor of Gloucester Dining Show by Minty Spectre. Follow the tale of a poor tailor tasked with creating a wedding coat for the Mayor on Christmas Day. The magical story unfolds between courses of a delicious three-course Christmas dinner in the stunning surroundings of Layer Marney Tower.
Website: The Tailor of Gloucester with Christmas Dinner

6. Step Into Christmas

Venue: Cliffs Pavilion
Town: Southend-on-Sea
Date: 21st November
Price: From £34.00
Description: Back by popular demand for 2025! Step Into Christmas is the ultimate feel-good festive concert, packed with dazzling performances, Christmas classics, and live music to fill your heart with holiday cheer. Whether you’re starting a new festive tradition or keeping the magic alive, it’s the perfect way to kick off the season.
Website: Step Into Christmas

7. Christmas – The Candlelight Concert

Venue: Charter Hall
Town: Colchester
Date: 3rd December
Price: From £27.75
Description: Experience the enchantment of Christmas – The Candlelight Concert, a magical evening of live music, festive favourites, and candlelit atmosphere. Performed by incredible singers and a live band, this concert offers a fresh take on beloved Christmas songs for a heartwarming night of celebration.
Website: Christmas – The Candlelight Concert

8. The Great Christmas Snow Patrol

Venue: Harlow Playhouse
Town: Harlow
Date: 6th December – 24th December
Price: From £10.00
Description: Jack and Lily are dreaming of a white Christmas, but there’s no snow in sight! Join them on a magical mission to the clouds in this fun-filled, interactive show for little ones. With songs, storytelling, and a special meet-and-greet with Santa, this festive adventure is perfect for 2–6 year olds and their families.
Website: The Great Christmas Snow Patrol

9. Santa’s On His Sleigh!

Venue: Palace Theatre
Town: Southend-on-Sea
Date: 8th December – 24th December
Price: From £17.50
Description: It’s Christmas Eve and Santa’s sleigh has broken down! Can you help him fix it before the big night? Join Santa, the elves, and Rudolph in this interactive festive show featuring songs, games, and plenty of laughter. Children can meet Santa after the performance and hand him their Christmas lists.
Website: Santa’s On His Sleigh!

10. The Snow Queen

Venue: Palace Theatre
Town: Southend-on-Sea
Date: 13th December – 28th December
Price: From £20.00
Description: The Snow Queen brings a beloved winter tale to life in a brand-new musical adventure. With a feel-good original score, lovable characters, and enchanting visuals, this is a Christmas story full of wonder, friendship, and magic — perfect for the whole family to enjoy together.
Website: The Snow Queen

11. Dick Whittington Panto

Venue: Colchester United
Town: Colchester
Date: 14th December
Price: From £9.00
Description: Join us for a magical afternoon of family fun with Dick Whittington, a classic pantomime filled with laughter, music, and audience participation. Follow Dick on his journey to London to seek his fortune in this timeless festive adventure.
Website: Dick Whittington Panto

12. Pop-Up Panto: Goldilocks & The Three Bears
Venue: Hedingham Castle
Town: Halstead
Date: 22nd & 23rd December
Price: From £12.50
Description: Enjoy a festive pop-up pantomime full of circus tricks, songs, and silliness for all ages. When the villainous Sir Cuss kidnaps Daddy Bear, Goldilocks and Mummy Bear set out on a daring rescue mission. After the show, children can meet Father and Mother Christmas and receive a special gift.
Website: Pop-Up Panto: Goldilocks & The Three Bears

So, gather your loved ones, put on your Christmas jumpers, and get ready to make magical memories this festive season! With dazzling pantomimes, heartwarming concerts, and enchanting family shows happening all across Essex, there’s something for everyone to enjoy — from toddlers to grandparents.

If you’re on the lookout for even more free or family-friendly Christmas events in Essex, head over to the Essex Mums Facebook page, where our community has shared their favourite festive happenings, local shows, and hidden gems to help make your December extra special.