Exploring the Festive Spirit: Top Events to Enjoy in North London This Weekend (December 20-21)
As the holiday season reaches its peak, North London offers an array of exciting activities and events to make your weekend memorable. From outdoor adventures and musical performances to unique workshops and community celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of notable events happening across the region this weekend. Feel free to share any additional recommendations in the comments!
Hampstead Heath Christmas Hike
Location: Hampstead Heath Station, NW3
Date: December 21
Cost: Free
Embrace the winter outdoors with a leisurely Christmas hike around Hampstead Heath, organized by Alex Mytton. The walk begins at Hampstead Heath Overground at 12:30 pm and continues until around 3 pm. Afterward, participants are invited to gather at The Duke Of Hamilton pub—outdoor seating is covered and heated, with food available (let Alex know if you’ll be dining so they can reserve accordingly). Remember to wear warm clothing, suitable footwear, and bring water. Dogs are welcome to join this festive stroll.
The Magic Circle Christmas Show
Location: 12 Stephenson Way, NW1
Dates: December 19-29
Cost: Ticketed event
Experience the wonder of magic with The Magic Circle’s annual Christmas showcases at their headquarters in Euston. Before the main performance, explore their museum featuring Houdini’s handcuffs, King Charles’s cups and balls, and more. Enjoy close-up magic, try your hand at the Bunco Booth gambling game, and snap photos in the Zig Zag Illusion. The evening continues upstairs with professional magicians performing astonishing sleight of hand, mind-reading feats, and illusions—past shows have included levitations and bottomless whisky bottles. Multiple showtimes are available; tickets start from £14. This rare public opening offers an enchanting festive experience.
Thriftmas Fair at Abney Public Hall
Location: Abney Public Hall, N16
Dates: December 20-21
Cost: Free
Discover a treasure trove of vintage finds at Thriftmas, Stoke Newington’s first festive thrift market hosted by the team behind Hackney Flea Market. Over 60 independent traders will be selling a curated selection of vintage clothing, jewelry, ceramics, nail art, temporary tattoos, and more. The event spans two days at Abney Hall and offers affordable options for all budgets—perfect for holiday shopping or scouting unique gifts.
Sing Along This Christmas with Crouch End Festival Chorus
Location: St Michael’s Church, N6
Date: December 20
Cost: Tickets from £5; discounts available for under-40s and students
Join Crouch End Festival Chorus for their cherished Christmas concert featuring traditional carols, festive songs, and selections from Karl Jenkins’s Stella Natalis. Audience participation is encouraged in this warm, joyful celebration. Choose between a 4 pm matinee or an evening performance at 7:30 pm. The concert lasts approximately 80 minutes, with no intermission. Tickets are reasonably priced, and discounts make this event accessible to all.
Tottenham Marshes Winter Walk
Location: Tottenham Marshes, N17
Date: December 20
Cost: Free
Enjoy a refreshing outdoor walk along Tottenham Marshes with City Daze. Meet at Tottenham Hale station’s main exit at noon for a scenic trek lasting until 2 pm. Afterward, participants can socialize and relax in the area. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with nature and unwind before the holiday festivities.
Celtic Christmas Music with Tim Edey
Location: Kings Place, N1
Date: December 20
Cost: Ticketed
Celebrate the season with folk guitarist Tim Edey, renowned twice-winning BBC Folk Musician of the Year. His performance features a blend of traditional seasonal music from Ireland, Galicia, and beyond, including classics like The Wexford Carol and Fairytale of New York. The two-hour concert includes an interval and promises an immersive folk journey through festive melodies.
Angel Comedy Christmas Food Drive
Location: The Bill Murray, N1
Date: December 20
Cost: Free (donations encouraged)
Spread some holiday kindness by supporting Hackney Foodbank at The Bill Murray. Drop off food and toiletries from 2 pm onwards, enjoy mulled wine, participate in caroling, and meet special guests—including Santa! The list of needed items includes canned goods, UHT milk, pasta, rice, cereal, and toiletries. Entry is free for the food drive, with subsequent comedy events (21-23 December) offering both entertainment and fundraising opportunities.
Barnet Choral Society Christmas Concert
Location: St John the Evangelist, N11
Date: December 20
Cost: Ticketed
Join Barnet Choral Society for an evening of festive choral music at Friern Barnet’s St John the Evangelist. The concert features traditional and seasonal songs with interactive elements and concludes with a charitable collection supporting North London Hospice—an uplifting way to celebrate the season.
Ceramic Bauble Marbling Workshop
Location: Camden Arts Projects, NW5
Date: December 21
Cost: Ticketed
Get hands-on this holiday with a creative workshop where you’ll marble three large ceramic baubles in your chosen colors. These personalized decorations will be ready to adorn your Christmas tree, offering a sustainable, artistic alternative to mass-produced ornaments. The session promises a calming, plastic-free experience, culminating in beautiful keepsakes to cherish or gift.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, captivating performances, or creative activities, North London offers a vibrant array of ways to celebrate the weekend. Enjoy the festive season and make the most of what the region has to offer!
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