For merry moments… it must be Hull
Lights… late-night shopping… Santa spotting in Queen Victoria Square… it can all only mean one thing. Festive season 2022 is officially ON! The big switch-on takes place on Thursday 17 November, and we’re spoilt for choice with outdoor spectaculars, festive markets, fun-packed shows and family activities. Here are just a few highlights to get us all in the Christmas spirit. After all, this is where the magic happens…
Thursday 17 November 2022, entertainment from 5pm, lights 6.45pm. Free. Queen Victoria Square, Hull.
Five… four… three… two… one… Hull’s own Rugby League World Cup winner Connor Lynes is doing the honours and lighting up Queen Victoria Square in style this year. The Physical Disability Rugby League star who helped the England squad romp to victory against New Zealand in 2022 tweeted, “so proud to have been asked to switch on the Hull Christmas lights”. Everyone’s invited to join Connor, the deputy Lord Mayor, DJ Darren Letham, local performers and a VIP direct from the North Pole, for a night of fun and – weather permitting – fireworks.
Plus: Why not make a night of it?
Pop over to St Stephen’s shopping centre for its Christmas Lights Switch-on with Tribfest for more free entertainment from 5pm to 8pm on Thursday 17 November. With Collingwood Primary School Choir, Carrie Martin and Beautiful South/Housemartins tribute act The Beautiful Couch. And don’t miss: Santa’s Arrival Parade from Hull New Theatre at 11.15am on Saturday 20 November 2022. Free.
FREE FESTIVE FUN
The Magic of Christmas
Saturday 26 November 2022, from 10am to 4pm. Free. Museums Quarter, High Street. Meet magical Christmas characters including the sparkly Winter Fairy and mischievous elves, plus Dickensian characters including Scrooge and Bob Cratchit. There’s also live music, storytelling, face painting, craft activities, food and drink and a Christmas Trail.
Countdown to Christmas
Friday 2 December, from 5.30pm to 8pm. Free. Humber Street and Fruit Market. Fruit Market shindig for all the family. Join a festive dance workshop by Holly Gibbs, be dazzled by Ed Grimoldby’s fire show (as seen in Faustus) and enjoy the festive sounds of All For One Choir, dancing from Kingston Swing and vintage songs from Ruth Getz. Plus, late-night shopping and, of course, Father Christmas.
Victorian Kitsch-mas Market
Saturday 10 December 2022, from 9.30am to 3pm. Free. Trinity Square and inside Hull Minster. Craft, food and gift stalls, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and Victorian-style horse-drawn carriage rides.
PANTO SEASON – OH YES IT IS!
If you only go to one show this season, make it a panto.
Jack and the Beanstalk starring Gareth Gates at Hull New Theatre. Tickets from £17.50 plus booking fees.
Jack, Mum and the Beanstalk at Hull Truck. For ages 3+. Tickets from £10. Pay-what-you-can performance available.
Robin Hood: Prince of Thorngumbald, by Middle Child Theatre Company at Social. Tickets from £12.
For more fantastic family events to help spread a little seasonal cheer, see our full Christmas list.