How to Find Low-Cost Christmas Events for Your Family
Christmas is magical, but it can also be expensive—especially when you’re trying to keep little ones entertained.
The good news? Across the UK, there are countless festive activities that won’t drain your wallet.
With a bit of planning and some clever searching, you can give your family a brilliant Christmas season without the financial stress.
Look for Free Council-Run Festivities
Many local councils host Christmas light switch-ons, markets, children’s craft sessions, and community carol services at no charge. These can be some of the most joyful events of the season, and they’re usually just a short walk or bus ride away.
Check your council’s website or social media pages, as these often list all upcoming festive activities.
Use What’s On Guides
Regional “What’s On” listings, such as VisitScotland, VisitWales, Visit England, local news sites, and community magazines—regularly publish guides to affordable or free Christmas events.
Search using phrases like “free Christmas events near me” or “cheap festive days out [your county]” for up-to-date listings.
Visit Local Museums and Heritage Sites
Many museums, galleries, and heritage properties offer seasonal workshops, trails, and family days for a small fee—or sometimes free with a pre-booked ticket.
Community museums often run low-cost Santa visits, storytelling sessions, and make-and-take craft activities that are perfect for little ones.
Try Libraries and Community Centres
Libraries are unsung heroes of the festive season. From storytime sessions to Christmas jumper craft clubs, family film afternoons, and even mini pantomimes, libraries offer some of the most affordable events around.
Community centres also host budget-friendly activities such as wreath-making, festive discos, and charity fun days.
Join Local Facebook Groups
Community Facebook groups often share smaller, hyper-local events that don’t appear in official listings. School fêtes, church bazaars, Scouts Christmas fairs, and charity Santa runs are often inexpensive and great fun for children.
Look for “Pay What You Can” Events
Many theatres, arts centres, and charities offer “pay what you can” performances, craft sessions, and workshops around Christmastime. These events are designed to be accessible to all families, regardless of budget.
It’s always worth checking your local arts venue’s website to see what’s available.
Explore Nature-Based Festivities
Not all Christmas outings need a ticket. Many parks, woodlands, and nature reserves run free festive trails, wildlife walks, and outdoor scavenger hunts. Even a DIY Christmas trail, complete with decorated sticks, pinecones, and hidden clues—can turn a simple winter walk into a magical day out.
Take Advantage of Early-Bird Deals
Some ticketed events offer discounted entry if you book well ahead. Early-bird tickets can make attractions like light trails, children’s shows, and Christmas farms more affordable.
Sign up for venue mailing lists so you never miss a deal.
Check Supermarket and Shopping Centre Events
Big retailers and shopping centres often put on free activities such as craft mornings, Santa meet-and-greets, and Christmas parades. These can be surprisingly high-quality and perfect for younger children.
Don’t Forget Local Schools and Churches
Nativity plays, charity fairs, carol concerts, and Christmas raffles are inexpensive, family-friendly, and often support good causes. You’ll also be helping your local community at the same time.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to make Christmas magical. With a bit of searching and a willingness to explore what’s already happening locally, you can create a season full of memories, laughter, and festive cheer—without blowing the family budget.