Christmas Comes Alive at Alexandra Palace

Few places capture the spirit of a London winter quite like Alexandra Palace. Each year the People’s Palace turns its sweeping hilltop home into a season of light, performance, music and pure festive escapism. This Christmas is no exception. From dazzling theatre to legendary darts, and from ice shows to carols beneath a twenty foot tree, the iconic landmark returns with a programme that feels both nostalgic and thrillingly alive.

From 21st November 2025 until 4th January 2026, Ally Pally becomes a celebration of everything we love about this time of year, all wrapped into one remarkable setting.

A Theatre Steeped in Ghostly Magic

The Palace Theatre, one of London’s most atmospheric spaces, once again plays host to Mark Gatiss’s acclaimed production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story. Returning for a third season, the play draws audiences into a supernatural world where flickering shadows and Victorian echoes shape a retelling that is both chilling and full of heart. Neil Morrissey steps into the role of Jacob Marley, joined by Matthew Cottle as a wonderfully layered Scrooge. It is the perfect winter escape, bold, beautifully staged and alive with Dickensian drama.

Sleeping Beauty on Ice

A short walk from the theatre, another story unfolds. From 4th to 8th December, the Alexandra Palace Ice Rink becomes a stage for Sleeping Beauty, performed by the talented cast of Alexandra Palace Ice Rink Amateur Productions. It is an Ally Pally favourite, a production that blends graceful skating, imaginative movement and a tale that has enchanted generations. It lands as one of the most charming family outings of the season.

Festive Skate Sessions

Of course, the rink is open for festive skating throughout the holidays. Between 11th December and 5th January, visitors can glide across the ice to the soundtrack of ultimate party favourites before warming up in the East Court Cafe with hot chocolate, mulled wine, mince pies and a selection of winter treats. It is one of the capital’s most joyful traditions.

Music to Lift the Season

On 15th December, the Philharmonia Festive Brass brings an evening of rich sound and seasonal classics to the Palace Theatre. Expect soaring arrangements, familiar favourites and a concert that leaves audiences wrapped in festive warmth.

Santa Comes to the Palace

From 28th November to 23th December, Santa’s Grotto returns to the East Court. Children can meet Santa, take a photo and leave with a small gift, while parents get a moment to take in the glow of the Palace’s winter decorations.

Visitors in the park will also be welcomed by free carol performances inside the East Court from 21th December until 4th January. School choirs, community singers and local ensembles will fill the space with music around the Palace’s impressive Christmas tree.

A Festive Market of Books and Gifts

Waterstones arrives with a seasonal pop up bookshop, ideal for last minute presents, while the Ally Pally Gift Shop offers exclusive cards and beautifully curated items to take home. It brings a personal touch to festive shopping, far removed from the rush of city centres.

The Return of the Darts

No Christmas at Alexandra Palace would be complete without the world famous Paddy Power World Darts Championship. Running from 11th December to 3rd January, it transforms the Palace into a cauldron of sport, atmosphere and high energy drama. It is one of London’s most electrifying festive events and remains a pilgrimage for fans across the world.

A Palace with Purpose

Alexandra Palace has been bringing people together since 1873. The Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust cares for the Grade II Listed building and its surrounding parkland, funding its restoration and ongoing cultural programme through events, donations and visitor support. That spirit of community, celebration and creativity continues to define everything the Palace offers.

This year, London is once again invited to discover the magic on the hill. A place where music fills the corridors, stories unfold on ice and stage, the lights of the tree glow through the East Court and families from across the city come together for moments they will remember long after the season ends.

Have yourself an Ally Pally Christmas.

For more information and to book tickets, visit alexandrapalace.com/Christmas