Hull get ready! The Museums Quarter is being turned into a Victorian winter wonderland for a weekend of festive fun and merriment. Live music and Victorian street performances, craft your own Christmas hat, there’s something for all the family to enjoy on Saturday 23 November and Sunday 24 November, 11am-4pm.
Hop on a Victorian Ride
This year the Museums Quarter is bringing history to life in the heart of Old Town. Visitors can ride a traditional carousel or take a horse and carriage ride through the cobbled streets just like in Dickens’ time. Look out for Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, Ebeneezer Scrooge and Bob Cratchit who will be wandering and performing across the grounds.
These interactive performances are a great way to introduce the younger ones to the classic characters and British Sign Language interpretation will be available throughout the day for many of the mini-performances.
Festive music and choirs
There’s plenty of live music to get you in the mood. On Saturday 23 November hear the Hull Visual Choir, Barton Community Brass Band and Hull Choral Union. On Sunday 24 November it’s the Beverley Brass Band and All for One Choir. Whether you’re local or visiting these talented groups add to the festive magic.
Creative crafting for all
Get creative at the festive crafting stations! Kids and adults can make Christmas crackers, top hats and crowns to take home. Every day at 1pm there’s a Christmas hat competition for kids with the winner receiving a family ticket to Hull New Theatre’s 2024 panto “Goldilocks and the Three Bears”.
For families with children who may need a quieter environment there are pre-bookable relaxed craft and storytelling sessions for neurodivergent children or children with anxiety. These quieter sessions are limited in space so book early to secure a place.
Warm up with festive food and Christmas shopping
What’s a winter event without food and drink? Throughout the weekend you’ll find hot and cold festive treats and stalls selling handmade gifts for Christmas shopping. The gift shops at the Hull and East Riding Museum and Streetlife Museum will also be open with gifts from books to trinkets.
And remember, entry to the event is free, with only a small fee for the carousel and horse and carriage rides (£2 per person).
Practical tips for a smooth visit
As expected, this popular event tends to get busy around midday, so if you’re looking for a quieter time, consider arriving early or later in the afternoon. Event maps and schedules are available online to help plan your day. Whether you’re looking to introduce little ones to holiday traditions, find unique gifts, or simply soak in the festive vibe, Hull’s Victorian Christmas weekend is sure to deliver.
