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SKATE · PLAY · SHOP · DINE PRESENTS
Yorkshire’s ultimate festive day out returns to Lotherton
24 November 23 December 2017 thechristmasexperience.co.uk
Sat 18 November 2017 – Sun 7 January 2018 BOOK NOW AT
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in this
welcome As I write this it’s almost half term and as a family we’re steeling ourselves for the impending visit of a small dog. It is only for four days to help out a friend but I’m beginning to wonder if I’ll regret the kind offer made over a glass of wine or two one evening earlier in the month: “Oooh we’ll have the dog - the kids will realise then how much work is involved and won’t pester for one any more…”
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Naturally the kids are absolutely delighted that their usually boring parents have agreed to have the pup, and they are already arguing over who gets to walk him and whose bed he will sleep on. They don’t seem to be arguing about picking up poo though… We’re drilling them into the habit of putting things away as I’ve been reliably informed that the dog likes underpants and frequently runs into the garden with them. That’ll be a tough one for my eldest who, although he can find the laundry basket, still has trouble lifting the lid and placing dirty laundry inside. He’s laughing it off at the moment but he won’t be when he has to go to school ‘commando’.
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I’m also not sure how the cat is going to feel about this one. She’s not always that keen on her own family, and does that hilarious arched back skipping move every time she sees a dog. So I’m going to make sure I’m camera-ready for those encounters. Truth be known I’m actually a little bit excited myself. I’ve never really thought we’d get a dog, so this half term might just help me make up my mind one way or the other. Wish me luck!
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Swimmers Academy & Baby Swimmers
Swimmers Academy Beginners through to Advanced, whatever their age and ability Survival skills, stamina and stroke techniques.
Baby Swimmers
Through fun and games,see your little one progress to a confident little swimmer! Free Phone 0808 1 33 44 55 Mobile Friendly 0333 8008 345
www.babyswimmers.co.uk
Why not take your little one swimming
Brain Tumour Research Charity Christmas Cards
Baby Swimmers & Swimmers Academy runs classes from 6 weeks old up to 14 years old, with classes in York every day!
Caroline, who sadly lost her mother Janet to a brain tumour three years ago, was inspired by the Christmas Hope Trees which decorate the charity’s Research Centres of Excellence across the UK each year.
The popular swim school has put together a structured Awards Programme, using STA Starfish and Stanley Awards so you can see your babies and toddlers progress to being confident little swimmers. Classes are fun with singing and skill-related activities. Physically your baby will gain greater muscle control and handeye co-ordination and alertness is also improved through word association. Swimmers Academy runs classes for children whatever their age and ability from beginners at 4 years old through to advanced levels for teenagers. Focusing on stroke technique and distance as well as lifesaving skill , they follow the STA Awards all the way up to gold in both survival and swimming skills. To find out more call 0333 8008345, email info@babyswimmers.co.uk or visit www.babyswimmers.co.uk
The Hope Tree cards have been added to the other festive favourites in the range. All cards are priced at £4 per pack of ten, with at least 60% of the proceeds going towards supporting vital research. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity focused on funding sustainable research to find a cure for brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer. To order your cards visit www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/christmas-cards
‘All Different, All Equal’
Anti-Bullying Week runs from 13 to 17 November this year and the theme, ‘All Different, All Equal’ aims to promote difference and equality in schools. The idea is to help children and young people celebrate what makes them, and others, unique and help them understand why it’s important that every child feels included at school and able to be themselves without fear of bullying. The Anti-Bullying Alliance will be supporting schools with a range of free activities to help them take action to prevent bullying and create safe environments for their pupils. Anti-Bullying Week will also see the ‘Power for Good’ award made to teachers, school support staff and youth workers who go beyond the call of duty to help children with issues such as bullying, relationships, family life and mental health. To get involved visit www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk
Two Languages, Too Much?
CLASSES FOR ALL AGES AT DERWENT DANCEWORKS
Are two languages at a time too much for the mind? In a new study, an international team of researchers reports that bilingual infants as young as 20 months can efficiently and accurately process two languages.
Qualified tuition with experienced teachers.
With 9 subjects on offer in our timetable! Contact us now to arrange a free trial of your new class in Thorganby, Escrick or South Bank. Contact Miss Kate 07985 687 807 derwentdanceworks@hotmail.com www.derwentdance.co.uk
Pioneering charity Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to their range of Christmas cards this year, signing up supporter and artist, Caroline Copland, to design a new card.
“By 20 months, bilingual babies do not just think that ‘dog’ and ‘chien’ are two versions of the same thing” reports Casey LewWilliams, Assistant Professor of Psychology and Co-Director of the Princeton Baby Lab in the USA. “They implicitly know that these words belong to different languages.” “One of the most obvious implications of these results is that we needn’t be concerned that children growing up bilingual will confuse their two languages. Indeed, rather than being confused as to which language to expect, the results indicate that even toddlers naturally activate the vocabulary of the language that is being used in any particular setting.” Lew-Williams suggests that this study also provides a likely explanation of why bilinguals show cognitive advantages across the lifespan. “We believe that everyday listening experience in infancy -- this back-and-forth processing of two languages -- is likely to give rise to the cognitive advantages that have been documented in both bilingual children and adults.”
A Ve n u e Fo r All Occa s io n s Flexible spaces for Christenings, Children’s Parties and other events large or small
Catering Services
Sports Hall
Pool
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news Parents Eligible for Childcare Compensation
Thousands of parents who have missed out on Tax-Free Childcare due to technical problems with the Childcare Service website may be able to claim compensation from the Government. The Childcare Service website, which is run by HMRC, has been plagued with technical glitches since it went live in April, affecting parents’ ability to register for Tax-Free Childcare and 30 hours childcare. In order to receive 30 hours free childcare in September, eligible parents needed to have received a code from HMRC by 31 August and taken it to their childcare provider to secure a place. New guidance published on the gov.uk website under the heading ‘Childcare Service Compensation’ states that: ‘If you’ve been unable to access TaxFree Childcare through your childcare account for technical reasons, you may be able to claim compensation.’ For more information call HMRC on 0300 123 4097 or visit www.gov. uk/guidance/childcare-servicecompensation
familiesonline.co.uk
Brackenfield raises £640 in their Macmillan Coffee Morning
Brackenfield School took part in the world’s biggest coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research on Friday 29rd September raising an amazing £640 for this worthwhile cause. The money was raised by Year 6 pupils who planned and ran their own stalls including Soak the Teachers, cake stalls, preloved books and toys stalls, treasure hunts, lucky dip and even a virtual reality experience. Each class was able to spend time enjoying the activities at the start of the day. The morning started with an assembly on Macmillan where children learnt about the charity and of course, there was plenty of coffee for parents. Mr. Bolton, Deputy-Head was delighted with the event:
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“The pupils showed tremendous enterprise in their ideas for such a range of stalls and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.” Principal, Anthony Comerford added: ”This is such a worthwhile charity, one that so many of us have direct experience of. There was a lovely atmosphere in the hall and everyone should feel so pleased with raising such an amazing amount for MacMillan. A big thank you goes to all the parents who helped and attended, including baking such wonderful cakes, and to Year 6 and their Form Tutor, Mrs. Wardell for organising such a successful event.”
rugbytots.co.uk The world’s favourite rugby play programme
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Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland – home to the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink, The Ice Factor - returns to York Designer Outlet from 18th November, and this year boasts the biggest rink ever, at an astounding 975 sqm! That’s nearly 100 sqm bigger than last year! Also larger this year is the family of Bobo the Penguin stabilisers – there are now 20 of the friendly penguins to help little ones take their first steps on the ice. The rinkside café PapaKitchen once again offers a cosy après-skate ambience and the perfect location for warming up after skating or having a party with friends. The vintage funfair will delight children and adults alike with its stunning rides from the
competition
golden era of fairgrounds as well as games stalls offering prizes galore. Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a visit to Santa, so follow the new Polar Express walk to his enchanting log cabin, with giant-size reindeer and sleigh, and collect a special gift for every child. Four-time award winner, Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland most recently won the FamilyFriendly Experience Award at the 2017 Visit York Awards, securing its place as one of the best events to visit with your family at Christmas.
WIN family tickets to Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland & Christmas at York Museum Gardens
Families Magazine has two family tickets to give away – one to Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland and one to Christmas at York Museum Gardens. In addition to your family ticket you’ll also get free hot chocolates to warm you up! To enter the competition all you have to do is answer the following question: Which sport, played on ice, can children learn to play this year at Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland? Email your answer to competitions@familiesvoy.co.uk and 2 winners will be selected on 8th December. Put Christmas Competition 2017 as the subject header. Winners will be notified by email. Ts & Cs will be sent by return of email.
Christmas at York Museum Gardens This winter, see York Museum Gardens like you’ve never seen them before! From Thursday 16 November, York will welcome its newest festive attraction, Christmas at York Museum Gardens – a magical, after-dark illuminated walk filled with colour, music and the biggest display of lighting and special effects York has ever seen. The journey begins in a Christmas Courtyard with a vintage funfair ride, UV face painting and delicious festive fare. Visitors will walk beneath trees drenched with seasonal colour and discover the ‘12 Frames of Christmas’, a rainbow forest of musical trees and a spectacular projection onto the iconic ruins of St Mary’s Abbey. Along the way children can find hidden Christmas messages in a unique game of UV hide-and-seek. A specially-commissioned installation by a Yorkshire artist will transform the Museum lawn, and children will be captivated by musical tree stumps at the 14th century Hospitium, Father Christmas in his secret workshop, a display of ever-changing coloured mirror balls and an enchanting 20m tunnel of light. The walk ends with a dazzling Finale of Fire on the Library lawn, and even the chance to toast your own marshmallows in the Undercroft’s Fire Bar or enjoy a warming mulled wine or hot chocolate.
6 Families Vale of York
familiesonline.co.uk
By Justine Crow
for the
reading
As a bookseller, one of the least favourite phrases that I hear from passing parents is “No. You’ve got too many books already.” What sort of a message is that? I mean, those very same mums and dads also grumble that their kids just aren’t interested in reading any more. No excuses - Winter is the perfect season for hunkering down and burying noses, so here are some suggestions for filling your youngsters boots with words.
0-2 Years
3-5 Years
6-8 Years
9-11 Years
Twinkle Twinkle ABC by Barney Saltzberg
The Bear & the Piano Sound Book by David Litchfield
Santa Claude by Alex T Smith
Father Christmas & Me by Matt Haig
Phaidon RRP £8.95 And we begin with this artful and melodic board book that mixes and matches possibly the two most sung baby songs on the planet (well, your particular parental planet at any rate) accompanied by a banjo, a growling bear and a pirouetting cow (of course!) Perfect for winding down and instilling the irresistible idea in those little minds that bedtime means books.
Frances Lincoln RRP £14.99 Now that you’ve warmed up the vocal chords above, everyone can enjoy this new sound edition of last year’s sumptuous hit picture book for preschoolers. Not too loud though, or – whispers - you’ll wake the baby.
The Snowbear by Sean Taylor & Claire Alexander
Harpercollins RRP £20.00 For fifty years children have been entertained by the antics of Lowly Worm, Hilda Hippo and Huckle Cat and I think the deep affection for the Busytown stories persists because they convey diversity, combined with slapstick and familiarity. Everything and everyone is on the go here in aeroplanes, umpteen diggers and buses, and of course Mr Frumble’s Pickle Car. Just don’t get a ticket from Sergeant Murphy!
Frances Lincoln RRP £11.99 Iggy and Martina head off into the snow to play but somehow they wander off just a little too far and after all their hard work getting cold hands whilst patting the snow into shape, who do you think comes to their rescue?
Richard Scarry’s Best Treasury Ever by Richard Scarry
Hodder RRP £5.99 Claude, the daft dog with the knack for being in the wrong place at the right time, has done much to encourage early readers in these pocket sized stories with lots of pictures alongside clear un-daunting text. Our eponymous hero is back and wearing a certain festive person’s trousers, which are just little too big (ho ho ho!) and is causing mayhem with his best friend dear old cuddly Sir Bobblysock.
Scaredy Cat, Scaredy Cat by Phil Earle Hodder RRP £6.99 I have thoroughly enjoyed the barmy adventures of the inhabitants of Storey Street and recommend the previous three titles that can be read in any order – upside down.. inside out.. etc. For our final visit we meet young resident Kay Catt, a timid soul with much to worry about. Enter Wilf Wilkinson, the weirdest pensioner ever to set foot in the street. Never mind a flat cap and cardi, this old codger has a pointy hat. Just like a.. um.. wizard?
Justine Crow is co-founder of the famous South London bookshop ‘Bookseller Crow on the Hill’ based in Crystal Palace. As well as being a blogger and reviewer, parent of three and qualified swimming teacher, she also co-authored The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury.
Canongate RRP £14.99 The third in the tinsel decked trilogy by a brilliant thinker and writer of books for all ages, in which we meet Amelia and her newly adoptive parents, none other than Father and Mary Christmas (who wouldn’t want them for a mum and dad?). But wait, everything we love about this very special time of year is under threat from a certain jealous Easter Bunny and his rabbit henchmen. Yikes!
The Book of Dust by Philip Pullman David Fickling RRP £20.00 By heck, this really is a major publishing event. Set ten years before the Northern Lights, we meet a new character, Malcolm, who navigates the Thames in his canoe ‘La Belle Sauvage.’ One day he discovers that the priory across the water has a visitor, an infant named Lyra… In a hundred years time, should bookshops still exist, long after flash-in-the-pan celeb authors have been forgotten, Pullman will be on the shelf right next to the great storytellers such as Dickens and Swift. If we do our job right as parents now, our children’s children will still have their noses buried in really good books like this. You can never have too many of them.
Hosting International Students We are looking for families to host children attending boarding school in the UK when they are unable to travel home at weekends and half term holidays. In exchange for your hospitality you will receive a generous compensation package as well as the experience that hosting an international student can bring to you and your family. For further information please contact: jane@collegeguardians.co.uk www.collegeguardians.co.uk 01684 581600
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Families Vale of York 7
10 Things Your Family Must Do this By Claire Winter
Every day we get closer to Christmas the children (and adults) get a little bit more excited. Here are some great ideas to get in the festive mood with the whole family.
Panto
It wouldn’t be Christmas without a Panto. Oh no it wouldn’t! Many families make it a tradition to watch a festive show and all our local theatres have a panto this Christmas. Try Jack & the Beanstalk at York Theatre Royal or at The Grand Opera House, Beauty & the Beast. If you’re in Harrogate you can also see Beauty & the Beast. If Panto isn’t your thing you could take a trip to Leeds to see The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe or try The Ugly Duckling at Junction in Goole. There’s also going to be a special screening of The Snowman at York Minster on 16th December – sure to make you feel really Christmassy!
If you fancy a trip further a field then why not go to the big smoke and watch ‘Pinocchio’ at the National Theatre. They have bought the rights from Disney so it will include all the popular songs that your kids love. Plus, its directed by John Tiffany, the Broadway hit maker responsible for ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ (www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/pinocchio). Check out Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland at the Designer Outlet or visit the real ice Ice-skating rink at The Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park this Christmas. Be sure to wrap
Ice
up warm and sample a festive hot chocolate to keep out the cold!
Bake with the kids
Make festive gingerbread men with the children. The smell of baking, ginger and cinnamon immediately evokes the scent of Christmas. You could also be ambitious and bake biscuits to construct a gingerbread house too. Don’t worry you can also cheat and buy a readymade set from supermarkets like Asda, Aldi and Lidl!
Make reindeer food
Generate excitement about the arrival of Father Christmas and his reindeer by making a special food for Rudolf and friends. You can pre-make it and have it ready to sprinkle on the lawn or hallway on Christmas Eve, so Santa and his friends know where to go! Mix oats with edible glitter (don’t use normal glitter as it could be harmful to animals) and cake sprinkles and then pop the mixture in a suitable bag. You can also get the kids to design their own festive labels and give the bags to family and friends at school.
Christmas market
Many cities and towns across the UK now have wonderful choice of markets, where you can buy a vast array of gifts, drink mulled wine and soak up the festive atmosphere. York has St Nicholas Fair from 16 Nov – 22 Dec with festive stalls, food and drink as well as an opportunity to relax and soak up the Christmas atmosphere. Harrogate Christmas Market will run from 16 – 19 Nov.
Christmas light show
Bakin g wit h the
Stately homes and gardens are lighting up with festive brilliance across the country. Look out for ‘Light up the North,’ an annual series of lighting festivals across Northern England. ‘Illuminating York’ is one of the most popular ones and this year they will be opening up some of the city’s most famous buildings at night, where there will be cutting edge lighting installations.
kids
Deck the halls
Put on some Christmas tunes and decorate the house as a family. Get all the decorations out and have fun making your home all Christmassy. Collect some greenery from the garden or whilst you are on a walk. The traditional holly and ivy looks great draped over a mantelpiece or around a doorframe. You could also get the kids to make their own decorations - card, glue and glitter is all you need!
Christmas lights
If you’re on budget this a great way to get into the festive spirit without having to spend a fortune. Most towns and cities also have a festive switch-on, where a local celebrity or panto star turns on the lights and there is usually some free entertainment too.
Find out what your local food bank needs at Help others Christmas time. Maybe they are collecting stocking fillers for children or need extra festive food. Get your children to think of someone locally who might like a visit or some extra help during the Christmas period.
Snuggling up with a hot cocoa and Christmas film watching a festive classic can be just
erland ter Wond in W ’s e ir Yorksh
what the doctor ordered after a hectic day of Christmas shopping. It’s a Wonderful Life, The Polar Express, Elf, Miracle on 34th Street and Home Alone are just some of the films people love to watch.
Join in the Christmas fun and share your Christmas moments with us on twitter and facebook using the hashtag #FamiliesMagsFestiveFun 8 Families Vale of York
familiesonline.co.uk
By Jane Rogers
Traditions Christmas is a special time for families, but I know many parents are dismayed at the whole commercialization of this time of year. It’s not all about the presents and the toys and how much stuff we’ve got is it? There’s more to it than that. It’s also about spending time together and being a family in whatever shape or form, and it’s about making memories. I know many families have their own Christmas traditions, and this can be a great way to make this time special.
Here are some ideas that parents have shared with me: One Mum told me that throughout the year she makes a note of anything important, funny or interesting that happens to her children. She jots each event on a piece of notepaper, folds it up and puts it in a jar. At the end of the year the jar holds a record of achievements and special memories e.g. ‘Charlie swam a whole length without armbands’ ‘Sophie had her story read out in class’ and ‘Eva took part in her first Fun Run for charity.’
rk ckeld Pa g at Sto e-skatin
Then on Christmas Eve she lights candles in the sitting room and sets up a tepee kept especially for the occasion. Everyone sits inside, and they take it in turns to put their hand in the jar and read about the memories from the year. I thought this was lovely, I wish I had thought of doing something similar when my boys were young. Another family always buys new pyjamas for the kids, and on Christmas Eve they change into them and go on a drive round the local area looking at the Christmas lights on people’s houses. There is one house in particular that everyone looks forward to seeing. The owner seems to be trying to outdo all the others and every year something new has been added, it even has a great big inflatable Father Christmas in the garden. This next idea I think is rather nice and those of you with a new baby might want to start this tradition now. The Mum who told me about it says that every year she buys one new Christmas tree bauble. She keeps them in a special box, and when her daughter grows up and leaves home she is going to give them to her to put on her own tree. I wish I had thought of some of these ideas when my boys were young, we just did all the usual mince pies and stockings for Santa.
York Theatre Royal Panto
Recently though I have started my own family tradition: As each of my boys walks through the door at Christmas time I light a candle on the mantelpiece to mark their return. Jane Rogers is founder of The Cambridge Parent Coach. Her two parent workbooks: ‘How to encourage good behaviour so you can enjoy your children’ and ‘How to use positive discipline to improve your child’s behaviour’ are available on Amazon Follow The Cambridge Parent Coach on Facebook
Open up the world for your child with our Montessori nurseries. hts Christmas lig
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Families Vale of York 9
Treasures Top Toys This By Zhara Armstrong of Treasures Toyshop, Wetherby
Once the leaves start to turn our chats with customers become more focussed on what are going to be the sought after toys this Christmas. Parents start watching a little more closely what their children are drawn to and how long they linger. The top picks this Christmas that have made our list are hopefully the toys that your children will still be playing with after the Christmas holidays are over.
Our Generation Poseable Andalusian Horse £59.99 Age 5 – 12 years
Our Generation dolls are beautiful, great fun with plenty of accessories and children love the size of these dolls (18 inches). This white horse arrived this summer and is striking; it comes with plenty of accessories to keep it looking lovely and moveable joints for more fun horse riding. Keep the box too to convert into jumping fences or to use as a horse stable.
Rubik’s - £8.99 Age 8 – 100 years Addict-A-Ball - £14.99 Age 6 – 100 years We have a tradition of adding a new family game to our home each Christmas and in this age of technology this is one I am keen to keep. If you have not yet tried Dobble and Tenzi these are worth a look, they continue to be our bestselling games (try these out at Treasures). New to our list this year Addict-A- Ball and Rubik’s 2*2. AddictA-Ball is a tricky 3D maze which twist and turns through the ball. The aim is to simply get the ball from the maze start to end without falling off. True to its name once you have started you won’t want to stop. Suitable for all the family and a brilliant present for those children who have everything! Rubik’s cube remains popular and the 2*2 edition will make a great stocking filler.
Pokémon Trainer Kit £22.99 Age 4 (ideal age 6 – 9 years) If you have a Pokémon fan you will already be familiar with names like Charmander and Squirtle. The Poke balls are perfect for younger children who want to play Pokémon but loose interest in the cards. The belt can hold up to 6 poke balls and the pouch can hold a further 6, this set includes a special edition Flareon.
10 Families Vale of York
familiesonline.co.uk
Ninjago Green Ninja Mech Dragon £44.99 Age 8 – 14 years One of several LEGO Ninjago movie sets, this kit allows you to ride the Green Ninja Mech Dragon into battle against the Green Ninja’s evil father, Garmadon.
Hatchimals
Crazy Aaron’s Mixed by Me – Glow in the Dark
4pk with bonus - £9.99, Glittering Hatchimals £64.99 and the Hatchimal Surprise - £74.99 Age 5 – 10 years Still riding high on last year’s Christmas success, Hatchimals are set to feature in letters to Father Christmas across the land once again. The collectable eggs starting at £1.99 have been very popular and the 4-pack with a bonus character will make a great addition to this year’s Christmas stocking. If you are looking for the big Christmas present the New Hatch, Hatchimals Surprise maybe the one. The magic will be the moment your child hatches their egg to find they have twins, (this could be a good present to share). Once hatched the twins go through 3 development stages: baby, toddler and kid - needing your child to care for their creature through each stage. Once developed the twins will interact, dance and have a range of games. Children may need some help to get the most out their Hatchimal.
£19.99 Age 6 – 12 years Putty, slime and play foam have been a huge hit this summer. It’s easy to see why as once you start playing with putty it’s very relaxing. Children at Treasures tell me Arron’s Crazy putty is “the best”. This award-winning set Mixed by Me, will make a great gift. As well as mixing your own colours there are 3 special effects included shimmer, sparkle and glow in the dark. Plenty of combinations and little mess. Another sure winner.
Top Model Diary with Secret Code and Music
Latches Barn £34.99 Age 3 – 6 years
£17.99 Age 6 – 12 years Always a popular choice and the designers at Top Model are constantly adding new lines and features. Having your own secret code to open the diary is a hit with children and the music goes down well too. A sure winner.
PJ Masks Vehicle with figures (5 to collect) - £13.99 Headquarters - £49.99 Both from age 3 years The toys for this lovely programme arrived earlier this year and have been an instant success. Three school friends Connor, Amaya and Greg become Catboy, Owlette and Gekko at night and go on adventures solving mysteries and generally doing good. The vehicles and the figures are the most popular and for the big Christmas line there is the PJ Masks Headquarters.
This beautifully crafted sturdy wooden barn is brightly painted both inside and out. It features six brass-hinged doors with locking latches and locks and a brass handle on top so you can easily carry your barn from room to room. Comes ready to play with 4 farm animals and room for you to add more. This is a lovely classic wooden toy gift.
Friends Snow Resort Chalet £39.99 Age 7 – 12 years We have seen a renewed interest in Friends Lego since the snow theme launch. The detail included with this Chalet is super: two mini figures Amy and Andrea in winter outfits with skis and their cute husky puppy, who even has his dog bed in the girls’ bedroom. There’s also an outdoor hot tub and a snowmobile for exploring – so there’s plenty to keep your child entertained.
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HING JANUA
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We are excited to announce the launch of our weekly activity academies for 5+ and 8+. Every week is packed full of exciting and innovative activities and in January we discover all things STEAM in Space. Children by nature are curious, by introducing young minds to the concepts of Science Technology Engineering Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) in a fun and engaging environment we open up a limitless world of imagination and creativity.
Academies taking place at: Joseph Rowntree School Haxby Rd, York YO32 4BZ Wed | 6pm to 7pm Bootham Jr School, Rawcliffe Ln, York YO30 5QB Sat | 10am to 11am and 11.15am to 12pm Check our website and facebook page for up-to-date information on events, amendments and additions to times and locations.
/technologyinplay-york
technologyinplay.club
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Families Vale of York 11
Affordable family from Genoa
by Paul Wojnicki
Why Genoa is a great place to begin a cruise
Not only is Genoa fantastically picturesque, it’s full of child friendly attractions too. We arrived in the city the night before our cruise and wished we’d had an extra night (or two). Still we did manage to squeeze in a visit to Europe’s largest aquarium, we saw a mock galleon and explored a real life submarine at the maritime museum. Harrison and Ella loved all of this but the highlight for them was the fantastic Asensore Castello d’Albertis, an elevator-cum-train, which runs along an indoor track for part of the journey before turning into a traditional elevator and whisking us to the entrance of a hilltop castle. We loved the city so much that we returned again in the summer and visited nearby Portofino, the Cinque Terre and the seaside suburb of Boccadasse which is walking distance from the port.
Value for money
Child friendly reputation
Cruises can be exceptional value for money when you consider everything that’s included in the price. Our cruise with MSC in the Easter holidays cost just £630 (minus flights) and included all meals for six days, free use of kids clubs, pools, and a sea view cabin. Not to mention the shows and entertainment that were included and the fact that we got to visit five different ports. Sure the flights pushed the holiday up to around £850 in total but a week at the seaside could easily cost a family of four that much once you’ve factored in the hotels and meals.
Italian cruise lines have something of a reputation as being extremely child friendly. This was evident when we boarded at the terminal in Genoa. We’d spent the day exploring MSC’s hub city (see above) and were tired and eager to board when we arrived at the port. We eyed the long queue of passengers wearily and I anticipated a long wait before we got to our cabin. Not so. We were only in the reception area a minute or two before we were approached by a representative who informed us that families with young children are entitled to priority boarding and whisked us through a separate entrance straight onto the ship. Onboard our ship, which was one of the fleet’s older mid-range vessels, were two swimming pools, a large “Spray Park” with water cannons, giant water buckets and wet slides, a cinema, an under 3’s club sponsored by Chicco, a club for 3-6 year olds, a Lego club and an amusement arcade/chillout room for teenagers wanting to get away from their boring old parents. In fact it was so much fun onboard that it almost felt like a shame to get off in each of the five ports we visited.
Casual dining facilities Flexible embarkation ports Parents with younger children will find the buffet restaurants a godsend if their toddlers are anything like ours. Harrison and Ella’s table manners are hit and miss at the best of times, so it’s nice to just let them pick what they like from the buffet and eat it in a relaxed atmosphere. MSC’s buffet food passed Harrison and Ella’s stringent test for the most part, but if they didn’t like something we simply went back to the buffet to try something else. The silver service restaurants apparently serve finer cuisine but we were not ready to inflict our two monsters on other passengers for a few years yet.
Paul Wojnicki is a freelance journalist who now specialises in family and overland travel. 12 Families Vale of York
Italian cruiselines like MSC tend to offer flexible embarkation and disembarkation ports, which meant we could have started our cruise in Genoa or Marseille. We chose Genoa because we wanted to explore the fascinating city but Marseille is also a good option, as it’s just three hours by train from Disneyland Paris. Tickets on the Ouigo service from Disney to Marseille cost as little as 10 euros per person even in high season. There were also flexible disembarkation ports, so we chose to disembark in Sicily and visit Mount Etna.
Factfile
MSC cruises can be booked directly on their website or via Thomas Cook. Independent travel agents should also be able to book for you. Genoa can be reached by train from Milan (1.5hrs) Pisa (2hrs) or Nice (3 hrs) all of which can easily be reached from Leeds. For more information on Genoa’s attractions check out www.visitgenoa.it familiesonline.co.uk
Christmas at Temple Newsam
what’son nov/dec 2017
The Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park
1 Nov - 8 Jan Stockeld Park Stockeld Park will be opening its doors for the Christmas Adventure on 1st November. Famous for its exciting adventure zones, visitors can glide across the real ice rink, play in the interactive playgrounds in the Enchanted Forest or take the trail at dusk to wonder at the beautifully illuminated ancient woodland. The energetic can try the Nordic Ski trail through the woods instead of taking the path or choose to get lost inside the Giant Snow Flake shaped Yew Maze - where the race to the centre is as fun as finding the exit. This year’s highlights include Santa’s Arrival and Sleigh Parade on 11 & 12 November. Santa’s Breakfast Panto and Sky Diving Santa will be special attractions this season and Disco on Ice will run on 3 & 10 Nov. If you have younger children, head for the award-winning Grotto to see the elves and share your wish list with Santa. If you want to stock up on presents or update your decorations there’s a large Christmas Gift Emporium where there’s something to satisfy every budget and after all the excitement, relax in the licensed Woodland Café, serving home-made, locally sourced food and warming drinks. Parking and entry is free to enjoy the shop and the cafe. Simply pay by experience. Open daily from 10.30 - 20.30. Closed 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22 Nov. Please check website for exceptions and for offers. Stockeld Park, Via A661, Wetherby, LS22 4AN www.stockeldpark.co.uk 4 Nov - 3 Dec (weekends only)
Build it at Brimham Brimham Rocks Make a bird feeder from recycled packaging or try your hand at making Christmas decorations from birch twigs. 01423 780 688 www.nationaltrust.org.uk 9 -12 Nov
Living North Christmas Fair 2017 in York York Racecourse Something for everyone & all you need for Christmas, under one roof! www.livingnorth.com 11 & 12 Nov
Christmas Shopping Showcase RHS Garden Harlow Carr Meet the makers and sample some of the
festive delights on offer this year in the Harlow Carr Shop & Plant Centre 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk 14 Nov - 23 Dec
Christmas Opening at Burton Agnes Hall Burton Agnes Hall Welcome the 2017 Christmas season at Burton Agnes Hall with the whole family. 01262 490324 www.burtonagnes.com 16 Nov
York Christmas Lights Switch On 2017 York Town Centre Soak up the city’s medieval charm and scents of spiced mulled wine this season, as fairs, family fun and festival flavours transform York into a festive fairytale. www.visityork.org
16 Nov - 22 Dec
St Nicholas Fair Christmas York
York City Centre, Parliament Street, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 8XS, York’s favourite market is back and its better than ever! www.visityork.org 16 - 19 Nov
Harrogate Christmas Market The Stray The four-day festive market will be filled with high quality Yorkshire & Harrogate products. 01423 500600 www.harrogate.gov.uk 16 - 17 Dec
Edwardian Christmas Treasurer’s House, York A perfect way to escape the hustle & bustle and get in to the festive spirit with home cooked food. Thurs - Sun only. 01904 624247 16 Nov - 1 Jan
Christmas at York Museum Gardens York Museum Gardens York Museum Gardens will be transformed into an after-dark experience jam packed with music, colour, special effects & a wonderful display of lighting. Begin in a Christmas courtyard where you can enjoy festive treats like mulled wine, hot chocolate & local food and then move on to a vintage fairground ride & games stall. You can walk beneath the trees where there will be the 12 Frames Of Christmas, the rainbow forest of musical trees, a spectacular projection onto St Marys Abbey ruins & children can find hidden Christmas messages in a game of UV hide and seek along the way. 08442 097362 www.christmasatyorkmuseumgardens.co.uk 17 - 19 Nov
Whitby Christmas Market 2017 Whitby Marina Car Park As always, this annual event in Whitby will be full of festive cheer, a brilliant weekend for all the family, with lots of events and stalls. www.whitbytowncouncil.gov.uk 18 Nov
Be sure to check before you set off. These were correct as we went to print but may have changed. Check if you need to book ahead too.
familiesonline.co.uk
Sky Diving Santa Stockeld Park Watch Santa leap a daring 12,500 feet out of his Special Jet and sky dive alongside his elves (weather permitting). 01937 586101 www.stockeldpark.co.uk
Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland York 2017 18 Nov - 7 Jan York Designer Outlet Festive fun at this four-time award winning event in York 2017! Skating, funfair, grotto and designer shopping! 01904 682700 www.yorkshireswinterwonderland.com 18 Nov - 17 Dec
Christmas Opening Nunnington Hall Discover the Hall as it would have been at Christmas through history, from the Georgian era to the war years & after. 01439 748283 18 Nov - 23 Dec
Christmas at Castle Howard Castle Howard Glittering baubles, twinkling lights and flickering candles combine with foliage, fruits, trees and twigs for an unforgettable start to the festive season. 01653 648 444 18 & 19 Nov
Chocolates for Christmas Temple Newsam Estate Learn to make chocolates from a professional chocolatier! 0113 336 7460 www.whatson.leeds.gov.uk 23 Nov - 30 Dec
NEW ‘Glow’ Winter Illuminations RHS Garden Harlow Carr See Harlow Carr in a different light this winter as special lighting effects bring a touch of magic to the most northerly RHS garden. 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk Families Vale of York 13
Magical Sleigh Rides Christmas 25 Nov - 24 Dec Piglets Adventure Farm For a truly unforgettable Christmas experience, visit Piglets Adventure Farm this festive season! Jump aboard Santa’s magical Sleigh for a ride through the twinkling Woodland Village. There you will be greeted by Mrs.Claus & taken to see Santa in his Grotto. Children can share their wishes with Santa & they’ll be given a special golden key to unlock his Toy Shop & choose a present from a huge selection. You can also mix reindeer food to take home for Rudolph, leave your Christmas wish on the Wishing Tree in Santa’s Tepee, or visit the Animal Barn to see cute animals. There’s even something for grown-ups too in the Elf Airlines Sleigh Port where adults can enjoy a delicious bratwurst, mulled wine or refreshing beer in the warm surroundings before or after your sleigh ride. So jump aboard for an exciting Christmas at one of York’s best-loved attractions. Call 01904 499 700 or visit www.pigletsadventurefarm.com for more details
Where’s Santa 11 & 12 Nov
25, 26 Nov & 2,3,9,10,16,17, 23 Dec
Santa’s Arrival and Sleigh Parade
Audience with Father Christmas
Stockeld Park Join Santa and his wonderful reindeer as he arrives at Stockeld Park to mark the opening of the magical Santa’s Grotto. 01937 586101 www.stockeldpark.co.uk 11 Nov - 24 Dec
Santa’s Grotto Stockeld Park Visit Santa in his magical grotto at Stockeld Park. 01937 586101 www.stockeldpark.co.uk 18 Nov - 24 Dec
Breakfast with Santa/Tea with Santa Wyevale Garden Centre, York Make Christmas 2017 even more magical for the children with a character breakfast or tea with Father Christmas. 0844 288 5067 mwww.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk 24 Nov - 23 Dec
Fireside Father Christmas Harewood House Mr Claus and his elves will be welcoming groups of lucky children to hear a Christmas story read by Father Christmas and to receive a special gift. 0113 218 1000 www.harewood.org
Castle Howard Make Christmas memories that will last a life time with a visit to see Father Christmas at these popular Fireside Audiences. www.castlehoward.co.uk 01653 648 444 25, 26 Nov & 2,3,9,10,16,17, 23 Dec
Enchanted Evening with Father Christmas Castle Howard Add a touch of magic to your Christmas with an exclusive evening with Father Christmas. www.castlehoward.co.uk 01653 648 444 25, 26 Nov & 2,3,9,10 Dec
Santa’s Breakfast Panto Stockeld Park Santa will be hosting a brilliant Breakfast Panto show, which will excite and entertain little ones this winter season. 01937 586101 www.stockeldpark.co.uk 25, 26 Nov & 2,3,9,10,16,17 Dec
Storytime with Father Christmas
25 Nov - 17 Dec
Beningbrough Hall and Gardens Father Christmas will read you stories and everybody will have the chance to go up and meet him. 11.30 - 15.30 01904 470666
Santa’s Grotto Fountains Abbey
25, 26 Nov & 2,3,9,10,16,17 Dec
Fountains Abbey If you’ve been a good boy or girl then pay Santa a visit in his cosy grotto and he may have a special something for you. 01765 608888 www.nationaltrust.co.uk
Father Christmas Nunnington Hall Meet Father Christmas in his grotto and tell him your Christmas wish. 01439 748283
Christmas at Temple Newsam 9 & 10 Dec If you’re looking to get into the festive spirit, head to Temple Newsam! Don’t miss this popular 500 Years of Christmas weekend with a packed day of merry-making with strolling story tellers, Christmassy crafts, a festive farm & more! Rock like Henry VIII at the Tudor carol karaoke or enjoy music from Jane Austen’s era & carols. Take a secret winter wonderland journey to meet Father Christmas from:12-15,19-22 Dec,1.30-4pm. Call 0113 3367461 to book.
14 Families Vale of York
25, 26 Nov & 2,3,9,10,16,17, 23,24 Dec
24 Nov - 23 Dec
Santa Steam Specials
The Christmas Experience
Keighley and Worth Valley Railway Santa Claus travels along the Railway spreading goodwill all round. www.kwvr.co.uk
Lotherton Hall Lotherton’s popular Christmas Experience festival returns with a bang! 0113 281 3259 www.thechristmasexperience.co.uk
26 Nov - 24 Dec - Tues, Sat & Sun
Santa Train Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway All aboard the Santa Steam Train from Bolton Abbey Station this December for some special Christmas railway magic! 01756 710614 www.embsayboltonabbeyrailway.org.uk 1 - 24 Dec
Stories with Santa RHS Garden Harlow Snuggle up with Santa for a classic Christmas tale, have a sing-along & a story with the man himself and if you have been very good, receive a small gift. 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk 2,3,8,9,16,17 & 18 - 23 Dec
Father Christmas Bolton Abbey, Bolton Abbey Visit Father Christmas and his elves in their Romany caravan deep within Strid Wood. 01756 718 009 www.boltonabbey.com 2 - 20 Dec
Santa Train North Yorkshire Moors Railway Join Santa & his special helpers on a magical adventure aboard the Santa Express. Tues, Weds, Sat & Sun.01751 472508 www.nymr.co.uk 2,3,9,10,16,17,23 & 24 Dec
Santa’s Grotto Ripley Castle Families will enjoy this beautiful fairytale location and should wrap up warm to explore the stunning Gardens and Deer Park....look out for Rudolph! 01423 770152 2 - 22 Dec
Santa’s Little Helpers Abbey House Museum This festive Christmassy experience could make even Scrooge feel jolly! Visit Santa in his magical grotto, then write him a letter, decorate an ornament for your tree & enjoy the Christmas trail and counting competition. 0113 230 5492www.leeds.gov.uk 16 & 17 Dec
Father Christmas’s Winter Wonderland Brimham Rocks Follow the Christmas Cracker trail through the rocks and visit Father Christmas in his 2017 snowy winter wonderland. 01423 780688 www.nationaltrust.co.uk
25 & 16 Nov
Music and Lights Fountains Abbey Tuck into festive food then wander through the estate to see the trees twinkling with light and the abbey all aglow. 01765 608888 www.nationaltrust.co.uk 25, 26 Nov & 2,3,9,10,16,17 Dec
Artrageous! Beningbrough Hall and Gardens Join the much loved family art workshop for a Christmas themed craft this December, with a different activity each weekend. 01904 470666 25 Nov - 24 Dec
Victorian Christmas at the Castle York Castle Museum Stroll along the beautifully decorated cobbled street, Kirkgate. Meet Victorian residents and discover the stories behind the traditions of Christmas. www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk 25 Nov - 31 Dec
Fountains Abbey Festive family crafts Fountains Abbey Get creative with all the family this Christmas 2017 and make your own rustic garland out of natural materials. 01765 608888 www.nationaltrust.org 30 Nov - 3 Dec
Country Living Christmas Fair Harrogate Convention Centre Beautiful decorations, festive food and the perfect gifts. www.countrylivingfair.com 1-24 Dec
Magic of Christmas RHS Garden Harlow Carr Put on your best Christmas jumper and get in the festive spirit on a Christmas trail. 0845 265 8070 www.rhs.org.uk 2 & 3 Dec
Christmas at the Abbey Kirkstall Abbey Celebrate Christmas with a very special Nativity play inside the abbey. 0113 230 5492 www.leeds.gov.uk familiesonline.co.uk
s t o t e l tab
15 - 23 Dec
Enchanted Brodsworth
.co.uk bletots www.ta
pm Brodsworth l, Selby 2 High Scoo y b rl Hall a B m p 1 , 11 Nov e tr isure Cen See Brodsworth lit up after m e p L 1 ey rd rl o fo M tre, Castle 12 Nov dark with this magical ports Cen S e n m a p L 2 Lock opportunity to explore Market 1 s a m 18 Nov st ri h the grounds & Father y Indoor C le e is u G m 19 Nov tre 1.30p Christmas will be in his n e C s rt o p Rothwell S grotto. 2pm 1 t 26 Nov e rk a M 01302 722598 ell Indoor w th o R 3 Dec 16 Dec
The Snowman Tour 3 Dec
The Great Barn Christmas dressing event East Riddlesden Hall Help to decorate the Great Barn with garlands and lanterns. 01535 607075 9 Dec
On the Hoof at Fountains Abbey Fountains Abbey Can you spot the difference between the Red, Sika and Fallow deer? The deer ranger will give you some pointers and you’ll learn about their job managing the wild herd 01765 608888 www.nationaltrust.co.uk 10 Dec
Fountains Abbey Christmas Carols by Candlelight Fountains Abbey Annual family Christmas carol service. 01765 608888 www.nationaltrust.co.uk 10 Dec
Beverley Festival of Christmas Town Centre, Beverley Four fantastic Victorian Christmas Market locations and a whole range of festive entertainment. www.beverleyfestivalofchristmas.co.uk 13 Dec
Christmas at the Workhouse Ripon Museums Get an idea of what it was like for the inmates celebrating Christmas during the Victorian and Edwardian times. 01765 690799 www.riponmuseums.co.uk
York Minster Experience the magic of The Snowman film this Christmas - brought to life with a big screen & live orchestra. www. carrotproductions.com 16, 23 & 30 Dec
Jack in the Green Fountains Abbey Festive family storytelling 01765 608888 www.nationaltrust. co.uk 16 & 17 Dec
A Twilight Christmas East Riddlesden Hal As dusk starts to fall see the Christmas story brought to life as never before. Beautiful family event not to miss this Christmas www.nationaltrust.co.uk 20 Dec
Worldwide Winter Celebrations Leeds Discovery Centre Go on a trip around the world in 20 objects to discover global celebrations & traditions at this festive time of year. 0113 378 2100 www.leeds.gov.uk 27 - 31 Dec
Music and Lights Fountains Abbey Tuck into festive food then wander through the estate to see the trees twinkling with light and the abbey all aglow. 01765 608888 www.nationaltrust.co.uk 30 Dec 2017
The Snowman Tour Hull City Hall Experience the magic of The Snowman film this Christmas brought to life with a big screen and live orchestra.
Jingle Bell Bop 17 Dec Riley Smith Hall, Tadcaster Part party, part panto, see Santa, his elves and his fairies take you on a magical interactive journey that’s sure to get you in the festive mood. Santa’s head Elf, Elfie, will guide you through the show and introduce you to the rest of our characters as well as Father Christmas himself. Unlike a conventional sit down panto children will be on their feet during the show and between each short stage act there are dance for the children to join in with. There are plenty of chances for children to join in with the traditional pantomime shouts such as “he’s behind you” and the show is relaxed and inviting for children of all ages. www.jinglebellbop.co.uk
familiesonline.co.uk
theatre 18 Nov
Ugly Duckling Junction, Paradise Place Moving through all four seasons, tutti frutti bring to life Hans Christian Andersen’s well known tale. 01405763652 www.junctiongoole.co.uk 20 - 25 Nov
Hairspray Bradford Alhambra The smash hit musical comedy Hairspray is coming to Bradford with a production that is guaranteed to have you dancing. www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 20 - 25 Nov
My Fair Lady York Grand Opera House The tale of a cockney flower girl transformed into an elegant lady features one of musical theatre’s greatest scores. 0844 871 3024 www.atgtickets.com 24 Nov - 7 Jan
Aladdin City Varieties Music Hall A cast of talented actor-musicians will wow Leeds audiences in this high-octane rock n’ roll panto! 0113 243 0808 www.cityvarieties.co.uk 25 Nov - 30 Dec
Crumble’s Search for Christmas West Yorkshire Playhouse From the writer of The Night Before Christmas, this magical story of secret burrows and blustering blizzards, is perfect for 2-6 year olds, and their grown-ups. 01132137800 www.wyp.org.uk 29 Nov - 21 Jan
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe West Yorkshire Playhouse Step through the wardrobe this winter into the magical kingdom of Narnia … and the Playhouse as you’ve never seen it before. 01132137800 www.wyp.org.uk 1 - 31 Dec
Beauty and the Beast Cast, Doncaster Doncaster’s traditional family pantomime returns in 2017 even more spectacular than ever! www.castindoncaster.com 1 Dec - 6 Jan
Jack and the Beanstalk Carriageworks Theatre Leeds’ traditional pantomime is back, with a giant of a Christmas show! 0113 376 0318 www.leeds.gov.uk 6 Dec - 21 Jan
Beauty and the Beast Harrogate Theatre Follow the bookish and beautiful Belle and the Beast, a troubled prince who has been placed under an evil spell for a hundred years. 01423 502116 www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk 7 - 31 Dec
Peter Pan Hull New Theatre With spectacular high-flying effects, and an unmissable underwater 3D sequence which will take the audience on an adventure deep into the ocean. 01482 300 306 www.hulltheatres.co.uk 7 Dec - 7 Jan
Wizard of Oz The Georgian Theatre Royal Click your heels together and transport yourself to the wonderful world of Oz! 01748 825252 www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk
14 Dec - 3 Feb
Jack and the Beanstalk York Theatre Royal York Theatre Royal’s panto is a Yorkshire institution that families across the region go back to year after year. This year the UK’s longest-serving dame Berwick Kaler will be reunited with regular sidekick Martin Barrass who has played the dame’s on-stage ‘son’ for more than 30 years but was missing from last year’s Cinderella line-up after being seriously injured in a road traffic accident. Now fully-recovered, he’ll join other long-time panto stars, including the villainous David Leonard, the ever-youthful Suzy Cooper and York’s favourite Brummie A J Powell. At the time of going to press, and true to tradition, there was no sign of a plot! But we’d be surprised if the production doesn’t deliver breathtaking sets and gorgeous costumes, amazing lighting design, singalong songs and foot-tapping choreography, and loads of fun! 01904 623568 www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk 9 - 16 Dec
Aladdin Joseph Rowntree Theatre Rowntree players present the all-time favourite panto. 01904 501935 www.josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk 15 - 31 Dec
Aladdin Bradford Playhouse Can the street urchin Aladdin win the heart of the beautiful Princess Jasmine who is carefully guarded by the befuddled Emperor? 01274 800415 www.bradfordplayhouse.org.uk 15 - 23 Dec
Dick Whittington Junction, Goole, 01405763652 Join hero ‘Dick Whittington’ on an adventure to London, where the streets are paved with gold. Wed - Sun. www.junctiongoole.co.uk 15 Dec - 7 Jan
Beauty and the Beast Grand Opera House, York Three Bears Productions are back at Grand Opera House with one Panto’s greatest stories. 0844 871 3024 www.atgtickets.com 16 Dec - 28 Jan
Cinderella The Alhambra Theatre Join Cinders as she transforms from rags to riches, outwits her very Ugly Sisters, and wins the heart of the dashing Prince Charming. 01274 432000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk 20 Dec - 6 Jan
Nativity! The Musical Leeds Grand Theatre Your favourite festive film is now a major new musical and perfect seasonal comedy for all the family. 0844 848 2700 www.leedsgrandtheatre.co 21 - 31 Dec
Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood York Barbican Shane Lynch brings panto back to York Barbican for 2017! 0844 854 2757 www.yorkbarbican.co.uk
Families Vale of York 15
A MAGICAL, AFTER-DARK, ILLUMINATED EXPERIENCE PRESENTS
16 NOVEMBER 2017 – 1 JANUARY 2018 christmasatyorkmuseumgardens.co.uk
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