Discover the Top Events and Activities in North London This Weekend (December 6-7)
As the festive season kicks into high gear, North London offers a diverse array of events perfect for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly festivals, cultural experiences, or unique shopping opportunities, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a curated guide to the most exciting happenings this weekend, with additional suggestions in the comments section.
Hornsey Town Hall Festive Grand Launch
📍 Hornsey Town Hall, N8 | Date: December 6 | Free
Celebrate the reopening of Hornsey Town Hall after its refurbishment with a full day of festive festivities. Enjoy a vibrant Christmas market, visit Father Christmas’ grotto, and explore captivating art exhibitions, including offerings from Crouch End Open Studios. The event features line dancing, a Christmas tree lighting at 6 PM accompanied by a stunning light show projected on the building, and a lively evening lineup of jazz, blues, and soul performances in the Crossover Jazz Room. Comedy nights at Downstairs at the Kings Head also add to the entertainment. While some talks require tickets—like the insightful session with Katy Hessel on living an artful life—entry to the main event areas is free. Food and drinks will be available throughout the day, making it a perfect family outing or cultural exploration.
Myddleton Road Winter Festival
📍 Bowes Park, N22 | Date: December 7 | Free
Experience the charm of Bowes Park at its annual Christmas Market on Myddleton Road. From 12 PM to 5 PM, browse over 40 traders offering unique gifts and seasonal treats. The event features Santa’s grotto at Cafe Bowes, live music from the London Brass Band, carol singing with Bowes Park Community Choir, festive rides, and warm mulled wine—ideal for a laid-back day out with loved ones.
Alfies Christmas Party
📍 Alfies Antique Market, NW8 | Date: December 6 | Free
Step into a vintage wonderland at Alfies Antique Market’s Christmas celebration. This art deco marvel hosts live music, mince pies, and seasonal drinks across its four floors of antiques and vintage collectibles. While it’s a popular spot among tourists, locals will appreciate discovering one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts amidst thousands of curated pieces from knowledgeable dealers.
Kentish Town City Farm Christmas Fair
📍 Kentish Town City Farm, NW5 | Date: December 7 | Entry: Paid (£)
Join the festivities at Kentish Town City Farm’s Christmas Fair from noon onward. Enjoy Santa’s grotto, animal handling sessions, festive games, a BBQ, mulled wine, and stalls selling homemade decorations and jams. The event also features carol singing, a raffle, tombola, and a lucky dip. Entry costs £1 for adults and 50p for children, with the farm opening specifically for the fair.
Primrose Hill Designer Sale
📍 St Mary’s Church, Primrose Hill, NW3 | Date: December 6 | Entry: £2
Find the perfect Christmas gift at this exclusive one-day sale featuring works from over 50 designers, jewellers, ceramicists, and makers. From handcrafted jewelry to unique homeware, the event runs from 10 AM to 5 PM. Take a break at the tearooms offering homemade cake and enjoy the opportunity to purchase distinctive, locally-made items—a biannual event not to be missed.
The Christmas Charity Supermarket at Coal Drops Yard
📍 Coal Drops Yard, N1C | Dates: December 5-7 | Free
Over the weekend, Coal Drops Yard transforms into a vibrant charity shop pop-up, showcasing second-hand fashion, designer pieces, books, homeware, records, and jewelry. This initiative supports charities including Traid, the British Heart Foundation, Havens Hospices, and Fight for Sight. The event runs from 10 AM to 5 PM each day, with opportunities to find unique gifts and participate in the Repair Shop, where on-site artisans fix pre-loved items.
Illustrators’ Fair at Granary Square
📍 The Crossing, N1C | Date: December 6 | Free
Art enthusiasts will appreciate London’s largest illustration fair, showcasing the work of local independent artists. Visitors can purchase prints, greeting cards, gift wrap, badges, zines, and more—directly from the creators. The event is held at The Crossing, near Granary Square canal-side, perfect for combining with the festive offerings nearby.
Festive Dog Show at the Museum of Homelessness
📍 Finsbury Park, N4 | Date: December 6 | Free
Celebrate the holiday spirit with a charming dog show at the Museum of Homelessness. All dogs are welcome, especially street dogs. Participate in fun categories such as waggiest tail or best costume, and support a good cause—funding emergency supplies for those experiencing homelessness. The event features handmade gifts, dog costumes for sale, exclusive merchandise, a tombola, badge-making workshops, and treats for dogs and owners. Every street dog gets a stocking filled with goodies.
Camden Market’s Festive Singalong with The Big Sing
📍 Hawley Wharf, NW1 | Date: December 6 | Free
Join a lively community singalong at Camden Market, where over 100 voices will perform classic Christmas carols around the market’s festive tree. Known for their impressive and spirited renditions of holiday favorites, The Big Sing adds a fun, communal touch to your weekend.
Winter Open Studios at The Chocolate Factory
📍 N16 | Date: December 7 | Free
Discover the creative process at The Chocolate Factory’s Open Studios event. From 11 AM to 6 PM, explore the workspaces of 27 local artists specializing in ceramics, painting, textiles, and jewelry. Engage with artists directly, learn about their craft, and pick up unique gifts—an inspiring alternative to traditional Christmas markets.
K-Pop Christmas Market at Big Chill King’s Cross
📍 N1 | Date: December 6 | Free
Celebrate K-Pop culture at the Big Chill in King’s Cross with a themed Christmas market. Browse vendors offering fan merchandise, accessories, and themed crafts like bracelet making and PC decorating. Participate in dance-alongs and enjoy music videos, making it an ideal outing for K-Pop fans and newcomers alike.
The Young’uns Christmas Concert
📍 Artsdepot, N12 | Date: December 6 | Paid
Experience heartwarming harmonies with The Young’uns, an acclaimed folk trio from Stockton. Their Christmas concert features traditional and contemporary tunes performed a cappella, blending storytelling with musical talent that has earned BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.
Highgate International Chamber Music Festival Finale
📍 St Anne’s Church, N6 | Date: December 7 | Paid
Conclude your cultural weekend with the finale of the Highgate International Chamber Music Festival, showcasing masterpieces by Shostakovich, Beethoven, Dvořák, and Brahms. Features performances by Wu Qian and Alexander Sitkovetsky of the Sitkovetsky Trio, providing a refined and intimate musical experience.
Chickenshed Theatre’s Christmas Concert
📍 Chickenshed Theatre, N14 | Date: December 6 | Paid
Enjoy Chickenshed Theatre’s annual Christmas fundraiser, featuring festive songs, mince pies, and mulled wine. The event supports inclusive theatre initiatives, making it a meaningful outing for families and theatre lovers alike.
Barnet Christmas Fayre
📍 Barnet High Street, EN5 | Date: December 7 | Free
Experience Barnet’s festive cheer at the annual High Street Christmas Fayre. The event features stalls, food vendors, craft markets, live music, and performances throughout multiple venues. Highlights include Santa’s Grotto at The Bull Theatre (free, donations welcome) and a magic show with Santa’s elves. The Mayor will officially open the festivities at noon, setting the tone for a lively community celebration.
Plan your weekend around these vibrant events and make the most of the festive season in North London. For regular updates on local happenings, subscribe to our weekly newsletter here. Happy holidays and enjoy your weekend!
Note: Please check event websites or contact organizers for the latest details and any ticket requirements.