Seasonal celebrations
Join in the New Year celebrations to join the crowds in exclaiming out loud at fireworks displays staged around the country. It’s a fittingly colourful start to the year in which we take every opportunity to celebrate annual events. At Easter time, join an egg hunt, perhaps in a national park or stately home. (It’s a good idea to let the children find at least one.) In December, begin the Christmas celebrations by inhaling the smell of mince pies and mulled wine at one of the festive markets. Don’t miss a carol service in a centuries-old church or cathedral and laugh uproariously with the kids at a traditional pantomime.
December events: Visit Hyde Park at Christmas and witness a Winter Wonderland
Gather the family and get your skates on for the UK’s biggest outdoor ice rink at London’s Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.
Location: London
December events: Celebrate the Winter Solstice at Burning the Clocks
Brighton marks the shortest day of the year with the Burning the Clocks winter solstice parade.
Location: Brighton & Hove, East Sussex
December events: Join the biggest Christmas Day party in Britain
Wake up on Christmas morning and head down to Eastbourne's Bandstand for a festive live concert you won't forget.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
December events: Meet Father Christmas at Drusillas
A magical Christmas experience is waiting for all the family at Drusillas Park this winter.
Location: Alfriston, near Eastbourne
November events: Get into the festive spirit at Hertford Christmas Gala
Start off the festive season at Hertford's annual Christmas Gala.
Location: Hertford, Hertfordshire
November events: Start your shopping at the Weald and Downland Christmas Market
Find the perfect gift and enjoy a great day out at the Weald and Downland Open Air Museum.
Location: Chichester, West Sussex
Glide into Christmas at the Tunbridge Wells Ice Skating rink
A favourite festive destination, ice skating in Royal Tunbridge Wells offers something for skaters, shoppers and spectators this season.
Location: Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent