Christmas - it’s a costly time of the year.
There’s the Christmas presents, the Christmas meal, or transport if you’re someone set to jet away from Leeds to sunnier climates (lucky you). And when it comes to keeping the kids occupied, whether it’s new games or their wishlists, it all starts to add up.
But it doesn’t have to; thankfully, the city and surrounding areas have several activities on offer, many of which are either free or have a nominal fee. If those prices do seem slightly higher, bear in mind that is a three-course Christmas meal you’re paying under £10 for - only marginally higher if you’re after desserts!
We’ve picked 21 events and activities around the city that won’t break the bank this festive season and should keep all the family entertained. From brisk winter walks to brass bands, choral services and a touch of Panto (oh yes, there is), we’ve tried to keep most of the events under the £10 threshold.
Here’s what you can do in Leeds over the festive period that won’t add to the additional costs of this time of year.
7. Nutcracker vs Mouse King (daily until New Year)
The Royal Armouries Museum is free to enter, and throughout the festive season, they put on a variety of exciting live shows, including the classic Christmas battle, Nutcracker vs Mouse King. Check the timetable when you enter on the day. 🎄 Royal Armouries Museum, Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT | Royal Armouries
8. Bridge St Brass Quintet (December 3)
The Royal Birmingham Conservatoire's Bridge St Brass quintet will be getting you into the festive spirit with arrangements of classics like Fairytale of New York, and music from the film The Polar Express - all completely free. 🎄 Leeds Conservatoire, 3 Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7PD | Leeds International Concert Season
9. Beckett Kitchen Christmas Dinners (until December 12)
Head to Beckett Kitchen on campus for a full meal with all the trimmings. Seating times are 12:00, 12:30, 13:00 and 13:30 on December 3, 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12, with a meal costing a mere £9 - and an extra £1.95 for pudding. 🎄 Beckett Kitchen, City: Portland Building, Portland Way, Leeds, LS1 3HE/Beckett Kitchen, Headingley: James Graham Building, Headingley Campus, Leeds, LS6 3QS | Canva
10. Carol Singing on Campus (December 4)
Spread some Christmas cheer on campus by joining in with the carol services. This charming and free activity offers an inclusive atmosphere perfect for connecting with others this season. 🎄 Outside the Leslie Silver building, Leeds Beckett University (City Campus), LS1 3HB | Canva
11. Community Choir Festive Songs (December 5)
Drop in to the Leeds City Museum to hear the museum’s own Community Choir perform a delightful selection of festive songs, adding a wonderful soundtrack to your visit. 🎄 Leeds City Museum, Millennium Square, Leeds, LS2 8BH | Canva
12. Fidget Theatre: The Elves and the Storyteller (December 6 -31)
A dazzling show recommended for ages 3 to 7 years old, where a team of elves must reignite the Storyteller’s love for stories, songs, and laughter in time for Christmas. This event operates on a flexible budget model, meaning you can pay what you feel. 🎄 Leeds Central Library, Room 700, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS1 3AB | Leeds Central Library