Christmas in Croydon: 7 Unmissable Activities

Santa is on his way, and the vibrant London borough of Croydon is pulling out all the stops. 

Home to some of the country’s best live music venues, foodie experiences and enough vintage clothing and memorabilia to make anyone swoon, there’s a reason why this eclectic corner of the capital has become so popular over the years. 

Throw a bit of festive cheer into the mix, and you’ll discover unique gifts, memorable Christmas parties and a whole range of activities to enjoy with the entire family.

To help you get in the festive spirit, we’ve rounded up 7 unmissable activities in Croydon this Christmas:

Explore The Cronx Boutique

This December sees the launch of The Cronx Boutique’s first-ever Christmas pop up.

Bringing one of the finest alternative shopping experiences to the heart of the borough, you can pick up one of a kind gifts and get creative at one of the many craft events on offer throughout the season. 

Born from the collaborative minds of three local brands, the Croydon Photographer, IvyRose London and East Croydon Cool, the pop-up is the perfect place to give back to the community and enhance local pride. 

From stocking fillers to Secret Santa gifts to finding stunning artwork and clothing, you’ll find exclusive pieces and more beside East Croydon’s station. 

Discover the Enchanted Forest Christmas party experience

If you want to feel like you’ve just stepped through the wardrobe to Narnia this Christmas, then look no further. 

Nestled in the heart of Croydon sits a large old wardrobe surrounded by suitcases and trunks.

Follow the path of glimmering candles up to the secret entrance, and just like Lucy Pevensie, push through the old coats and breakthrough into the Enchanted Forest. 

While inside, you’ll walk through frosted trees, twinkling towers of twigs and a series of street lamps to light your way.

Feel like the ‘White Queen’ and perch on the stunning throne, surrounded by the magic and sparkle of the glittering forest around you.

Offering one of the most immersive and memorable private party packages for 200 guests or more, the combination of the enchanting and captivating surroundings matched with extraordinary entertainment makes for a Christmas party night to remember! 

Step back through time and make your escape

Leave what you think you know behind and step back through time at Croydon’s top escape room, Exciting Escapes.

Once the door closes, you are left with nothing but your gut instinct, your senses and your investigative skills. 

With five highly themed, fully immersive, authentic Escape Rooms to choose from with four new games on their way, you can battle it out against your friends, family and work colleagues all under one roof.

From uncovering Cold War secrets to thwarting a spy network’s dastardly plans before it’s too late, there’s something for everyone to get their teeth sunk into in this Big Brother meets Crystal Maze phenomenon! 

So if you are looking for an action-packed night, you won’t forget, book your Christmas party at Exciting Escapes this festive season.

You can even dress up for the part to get your detective on! Will you make it out on time?

Experience the Palace of Light Festival 

Set in the historic Crystal Palace Park, the award-winning Lightopia returns to Croydon this Christmas.

The festival promises to be one of the capital’s finest festivals of lights where the whole family can take in all the remarkable sights of the Palace in all its finery during this festive period. 

Witness incredible installations and wander along illuminated routes in this fantastic winter wonderland.

Opening on 19th November until 2nd January, make sure you make your way down to central London’s largest Christmas light display!

Wander down the iconic Maple Road

Historically, there has always been a thriving market along the iconic Maple Road. This Christmas, local traders have come together to give you one of the best festive shopping experiences in the area. 

You can browse over 40 stalls offering a wide selection of delicious global cuisine, unique handmade gifts, art, flowers, local craft beers and ale, and more within the big, traffic-free street. 

As you browse, the local Salvation Army band will be out playing traditional tunes for charity while you sample delicious roasted chestnuts and other Christmas favourites. 

Get crafty with Wild London

Led by the remarkable London Wildlife Trust, you can create your own festive butterfly decorations to adorn your walls this Christmas.

Using simple needle felting techniques, this event is perfect for beginners and the more advanced to showcase their skills. 

What’s more, some of the wool you’ll be using has come from the sheep living on Hutchinson’s Bank Nature Reserve, so you’ll be creating something incredibly unique this Christmas!

With various dates to choose from throughout December, this is the perfect activity for those cold winter days. 

Watch a classic panto at Fairfield Halls

Panto is coming to Croydon’s Fairfield Halls this Christmas, and it’s going to be one of the most spectacular events of the year! 

Beauty & the Beast is produced by Imagine Theatre and stars legendary children’s entertainers Dick and Dom. This rip-roaring, magical adventure will delight the whole family. 

In this tale as old as time, you’ll encounter the cursed Beast as he battles with his demons before finding freedom with his true love Belle.

Surrounded by a whole host of magical and entertaining characters, with a few twists and turns along the way, will village girl Belle win the beasts heart before it’s too late? 

Featuring all the classic ingredients of a traditional pantomime, including side-splitting laughs, big song numbers, dance and all the audience participation that we all love, this is a show that bursts with all the magic and fun that will entrance young and old alike.

 

Christmas in Croydon is set to bring all the magic and festive fun to delight the whole family. Whether you want to get crafty, find a one of a kind gift or make your escape, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.