Christmas Activities in Leicester & Nottingham
The festive season is here! Christmas is the perfect time to create magical memories with your little ones. Whether you’re planning your first Christmas as parents or looking for fun ways to entertain toddlers, Leicester and Nottingham offer a range of fantastic activities. Here’s your ultimate guide to Christmas events and activities for babies and toddlers in these vibrant cities.
Visit Santa’s Grotto
There’s nothing more magical than a visit to Santa. Both Leicester and Nottingham have enchanting grottos tailored to young children:
- Leicester: Check out the Santa’s Grotto at Highcross Shopping Centre, where your little one can meet Father Christmas in a sensory-friendly environment.
- Nottingham: Visit the Winter Wonderland on Old Market Square for a magical grotto experience combined with festive lights and carousels.
🎄 Pro tip: Book early to avoid long queues, and opt for quieter times if your baby prefers a calm atmosphere.
Twinkling Light Trails
Little eyes will light up at the sight of dazzling Christmas lights!
- Belgrave Hall Gardens in Leicester offers a stunning light trail perfect for a relaxed evening stroll with a pushchair.
- Light Post Farm Wander through the 1km festive farm trail illuminated by sparkling lights, and enjoy a variety of seasonal delights at White Post Farm.
Christmas Storytime at Local Libraries
Encourage a love for books this festive season!
- Leicester and Nottingham libraries often host Christmas-themed storytime sessions featuring classic festive tales and sing-alongs. These are great for babies and toddlers to enjoy in a calm, warm setting.
Baby and Toddler-Friendly Festive Theatre Shows
Introduce your little one to the magic of theatre with performances designed for younger audiences:
- De Montfort Hall in Leicester is showcasing family-friendly Christmas shows with shorter runtimes for little attention spans. Snow White is running from 13th December to 5th January.
- Nottingham Playhouse offers a toddler-friendly panto experience, perfect for their first introduction to live performances. Jack & the Beanstalk is running from 29th November – 18th January.
Festive Baby Groups and Play Sessions
Local playgroups often host Christmas-themed sessions. Look out for:
- St. George’s Nursery in Sherwood and at their Leicester nurseries and holding free baby group sessions. Check them out here: https://stgeorgesnursery.com/baby-groups
Winter Walks and Christmas Markets
Bundle up and head out for a wintery walk:
- Bradgate Park in Leicester offers scenic views and plenty of space for toddlers to explore.
- Nottingham Arboretum is a lovely spot for a quiet stroll or a mini adventure.
Stop by Christmas markets for hot chocolate and festive cheer. Many stalls cater to young families with child-friendly treats and gifts.
Festive Crafts at Home
If you’d prefer to stay warm indoors, create your own Christmas magic at home:
- Make salt dough ornaments with hand or footprints.
- Host a festive sensory play session with fairy lights, shiny baubles, and tinsel (supervised, of course).
- Read more ideas here: Inset Link for Blog – Festive Activities to Enjoy at Home with Babies and Toddlers
Plan Your Festive Adventures Today!
Leicester and Nottingham are brimming with opportunities for festive fun, whether you’re venturing out or staying cosy at home. From meeting Santa to exploring twinkling lights, these activities will spark joy for the whole family.
Why Choose St. George’s Nursery?
At St. George’s Nursery, we understand the importance of creating magical moments for little ones, especially during the festive season. Our nurseries in Leicester and Nottingham provide a nurturing environment filled with seasonal activities, sensory play, and opportunities for your child to learn and grow.
Ready to start your child’s learning journey with St. George’s Nursery? Book a visit to one of our nurseries in Leicester or Nottingham today!
