November & December 2010
20/10/2010
A York Christmas
A York Christmas 2010 begins in November with a host of food and craft festivals.
In the lead up to Christmas, York presents a full season of Christmas markets, with food and drink and festive cheer in abundance.
KEY DATES 2010
Children's Christmas Fayre: 18 - 21 November
St Nicholas Fayre: 25 - 28 November
Made in Yorkshire Christmas Market: 2 - 12 December
International Christmas Fayre: 1 - 19 December
Early Music Christmas Festival: 2-11 December
Festival of Angels: 11 - 12 December
Christmas Farmers' Market: 21 December
Monks Cross Christmas Market 9 - 12 December
York's attractions also offer a whole host of festive events and activities, with updated listings available at www.visityork.org/christmas
November Events 2010
St Nicholas Fayre
25-28 November
St Nicholas Fayre is the busiest and most popular of all York's Christmas markets, offering everything from gifts and crafts to the best of local produce at this traditional festive weekend. Visit one of the Victorian costumed traders at Parliament Street or Coppergate Square for gifts, arts and crafts from across the UK. You'll also find roast chestnut sellers and warming hot chocolate drinks laced with brandy there. Move on to St Sampsons Square to find the finest Yorkshire fares for your festive larder with a selection of the very best of the region's producers. For a spell away from the winter weather, warm up in one of York's historic halls and houses at one of the Fayre's indoor markets. York's beautiful Georgian Mansion House will be splendidly decorated for Christmas, with all proceeds from the entry fee going to The Lord Mayor of York and Sheriff's Charities.
Public contact: For more information visit www.visityork.org/christmas
Press contact: Kay Hyde, PR Manager, Visit York, tel: 01904 554451, email: kh@visityork.org
York Minster
Night time tower trips
Friday 5th November, 6.30pm, 7.30pm and 8.30pm.
Adults £10, under 16s £5
A chance for visitors to take a night time trip up the central tower for spectacular views of the city of York. Minimum age is five. Each trip is limited to thirty people. Trips may be cancelled in bad weather.
November Concert
Saturday 6 November, 7.30pm
Vivaldi's exhilarating Gloria, Mozart's exquisite Clarinet Concerto, Beethoven's moving Mass in C: a perfect concert to brighten a dark November evening, performed by York Musical Society.
Bach and the Romantics
Saturday 13 November, 8pm
Chapter House
Tickets £14
A concert by the Chapter House Choir including Bach's Singet dem Herrn ein neues Lied, Schumann's 4 Doppelchörige Gesänge and 3 Psalms by Mendelssohn.
Public contact: Visit http://www.boxoffice.yorkminster.org/ or telephone 0844 939 0011 for more information and to book tickets for York Minster concerts and events in November.
Press contact: Lisa Sinclair, Communications and Marketing Officer,
Tel: 01904 557248
National Railway Museum
Model Railway Weekend
6 & 7 November 2010
Free admission
See seven fascinating layouts all brought together under one roof as they are lined up in the Great Hall. The display includes Manchester Model Tramway Group which contains pieces more than 50 years old, Tarrag Shed and Hassall Harbour Bridge by the Alsager Model Railway Association. Layouts will run from 11am - 4pm.
World Toilet Day Trail
20 & 21 November 2010
Free admission
Be part of our special celebration of World Toilet Day (19th November). Did you know that nearly half the world's population don't have access to toilets and proper sanitation causing disease, health problems and death? During this one-off weekend you can take part in our toilet themed trail highlighting items from the collection and answering the big question, what happen when you flush the loo on a train?
Winter Wonderland at the NRM
From 27th November 2010
Free admission
Get into the Christmas spirit at the National Railway Museum. Celebrate the beginning of the festive season during York's St Nicholas fair weekend (27th - 28th November) and step into a huge Human Snow Dome or do a few laps of the exciting Ice Rink* in the Great Hall. Keep the kids entertained with Christmas craft activities while you hunt for the perfect gift ideas in our extensive onsite shops.
*Small charge applies
Public contact: For more information, visit http://www.nrm.org.uk/, telephone 08448 153 139 or email nrm@nrm.org.uk
Public contact: For more information, visit http://www.nrm.org.uk/, telephone 08448 153 139 or email nrm@nrm.org.uk Press contact: Emma Rodgers, Tel: 01904 686262 Email: emma.rodgers@nrm.org.uk
Barley Hall
St Nicholas Fayre
25 - 28 November
10am - 5pm, Barley Hall, £2 adult, £1 conc., £5 family of four
Medieval traders gather to sell their wares. Living history and unique gifts. Medieval storytelling on 27th November. Traditional wine and ale at the bar.
Public contact: Visit www.barleyhall.org.uk , telephone 01904 610275 or email barleyhall@yorkat.co.uk
Press contact: David Scott, telephone 01904 543426 or email dscott@yorkat.co.uk
Bedern Hall
Inspired Art Exhibition
25-28 November 2010
Be inspired this Christmas at Bedern Hall by the Inspired creative collective of artists & designers. An exciting opportunity to view their latest work and a chance to meet and talk to the artists and designers themselves. Your chance to buy a unique and individual gift for Christmas. The 4th annual Christmas exhibition will feature: Adrienne French - Landscape painter; Catherine Boyne-Whitelegg - Ceramic artist; Jo Bagshaw - Jewellery Designer & Maker; Petra Bradley - Vintage Textiles and Print Maker; Rebecca Stoner - Textile Designer & Maker.
The cafe will also be open serving a range of festive goodies.
Public contact: Opening times: Thursday 25th November 6pm-9pm | Friday 26th November 10am-5pm | Saturday 27th November 10am-5pm | Sunday 28th November 11am-4pm. For more information telephone 01904 646030 or visit http://www.bedernhall.co.uk/ Press contact: Roger Lee, Tel: 01904 646030, email: roger@bedernhall.co.uk
Treasurer's House
Bee's Tea
Friday 5 November 2010, 2pm
Although the house is closed on Fridays, throughout November Treasurer's House is holding a number of exclusive ticketed events and the first of these will give you an opportunity to learn more about the fascinating lives of bees. For example, did you know that these fascinating creatures fly at 35 mph and that they have 5 eyes? After a peek inside their hive, enjoy a honey-inspired high tea in the historic tearoom.
Tickets are £12.50 - booking is essential.
Walk, Learn, Eat
Friday 12 November, 11am - 1pm
Second in the series of ticketed events in November, this one will consist of a tour along the historic streets of York with an official National Trust Guide followed by a warming lunch and a glass of mulled wine.
Tickets are £15.00 - booking is essential.
Lunch and Scrabble
Friday 19 November, 11am - 2pm
The third of the ticketed events in November will give visitors the opportunity to join fellow Scrabble fans for a delicious lunch and a few games of this old favourite.
Tickets are £15.00 per person, no prior booking is required.
Public contact: For more information please contact 01904 624247 Email: treasurershouse@nationaltrust.org.uk
Press contact: Jane Whitehead, Property Manager, Treasurer's House, Minster Yard, York. Tel 01904 624247; Fax 01904 647372; email treasurershouse@nationaltrust.org.uk; http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
The Farmers Cart
Taste of Christmas, Cuisine and Crafts
5, 6, 7 November 2010
10am - 4.30pm
Free entry
A unique chance to view, taste and buy from an exclusive range of Christmas delicacies, gifts and crafts from a plethora of local specialists.
There will be free tastings from a host of Yorkshire's finest speciality food producers including local micro brewers, artisan chocolatiers, Yorkshire cheeses, master bakers and specialist wines and spirits.
Free cookery demonstrations from celebrated Michellin starred Chef Andrew Pern of The Star Inn and other renowned Yorkshire chefs.
Public contact: The Farmers Cart, Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane, York, YO32 9ST. http://www.thefarmerscart.co.uk/ Press contact: Nicola Kent, Farm Shop Manager, Tel: 01904 499183.
York Maze
York Maze Fireworks Spectacular
Friday 5 November 2010
York Maze will open at 4.00pm on 5th November when the children's play areas, jumping pillow and other activities will be available. Minster FM will be there to get the party started, there will be a fire juggling show at 6.30pm, giant bonfire lit at 7.30pm and the spectacular fireworks to music show at 8.00pm. York's favourite party band HUGH will be playing live in the barn from 8.30pm. Event closes 10.30pm. There will be side-shows and lots of different food stalls selling everything from curry to hot dogs, plus a cafe and licensed bar.
The York Maze Fireworks Spectacular is a ticket only event, there will be no admission on the night without a ticket. This year tickets are being sold exclusively on-line via the York Maze website http://www.yorkmaze.co.uk/. Fireworks tickets cost £10.00 for adults and £7.50 for children (3-15), plus a £1.50 per transaction (not per person) booking fee. Please note it is anticipated that this will be a sell out event so please ensure you buy your tickets in plenty of time.
Public contact: For tickets and further details visit http://www.yorkmaze.co.uk/ Press contact: David Leon, Partners Leisure, Tel: 01904 610077, Email: david@partners-group.co.uk
National Centre for Early Music
Rosie Brown Quartet
Saturday 6 November 7.30pm
Featuring Jamil Sheriff piano, Chris Wright drums and Frank Grime bass, the group will be playing a mixture of original compositions from their new CD 'Bicycles and Dreams' plus choice jazz standards and Brazilian bossa nova.
Tickets: £12.00 (concessions £10.00; students £5.00)
National Centre for Early Music Jazz Weekend
Arnie Somogyi's Ambulance
Friday 19 November 7.30pm
Ambulance was launched at Ronnie Scott's in 2004 and went on to become the first ever jazz group awarded a Britten-Pears creative residency at the prestigious Snape Maltings venue and music centre in Aldeburgh. The subsequent CD, 'Accident and Insurgency', was nominated CD of the Year at the BBC Jazz Awards in 2008 and Ambulance was nominated Jazz Ensemble of the Year at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards.
Tickets: £13.00 (concessions £11.00; students £5.00)
National Centre for Early Music Jazz Weekend
Julian Marc Stringle and The Dream Band
Saturday 20 November 7.30pm
Twice winner of 'Best Clarinet ' at the British Jazz Awards, Julian now leads the Latin influenced 'Dream Band', a group of virtuoso jazz-funk players who are fast becoming a big draw at festivals throughout Europe.
Tickets: £15.00 (concessions £13.00; students £5.00)
http://www.julianmarcstringle.com/
National Centre for Early Music Jazz Weekend
Late Learners' Jazz Workshop
Sunday 21 November 9.30am - 12.30pm
Join the regular late learners workshop designed for people who have returned to or started playing music later in life. Led by jazz musician Rob Lavers and his session musicians. No grades required, just bring along your instrument and enthusiasm.
Tickets: £40.00 (no concessions)
National Centre for Early Music Jazz Weekend
Claire Martin and Gareth Williams
Sunday 21 November 4.00pm
Multi-award winning jazz vocalist and BBC Radio 3 broadcaster Claire Martin performs in an intimate duo setting with her long standing pianist, the dynamic Gareth Williams.
Tickets: £15.00 (concessions £13.00; students £5.00)
http://www.clairemartinjazz.com/ | http://www.garethwilliams.biz/
National Centre for Early Music Jazz Weekend
Farrago - Members of the University of York Jazz Orchestra
Sunday 21 November 8.00pm
An ensemble of students from the University of York Jazz Orchestra play a mix of original compositions, arrangements and contemporary jazz. The concert will be an eclectic mix of jazz styles, played by some of the University's most talented musicians.
Tickets: £7.00 (concessions £6.00; students £5.00)
Lulo Reinhardt
Tuesday 30 November 7.30pm
This is the first UK tour of this unique show of gypsy guitar legend Lulo Reinhardt complete with band. Lulo Reinhardt is the grandnephew of jazz legend Django Reinhardt and represents one of the most unique voices in gypsy-jazz music today..
Tickets: £15.00 (concessions £13.00)
Public contact: Please call the Box Office on 01904 658338 or visit http://www.ncem.co.uk/
Press contact: Melanie Paris, tel: 01904 632220, email: Melanie.Paris@ncem.co.uk
York Dungeon
Friday 5th November 11am - 4pm (last admission)
Come face to face with Guy Fawkes and hear from the man himself about his life in York. Enter the Dungeon to hear and see the gruesome story of his trial, torture and execution.
Public contact: Tel: 01904 632599 http://www.thedungeons.com/ Press contact: Krissi Neal, Tel: 01904 464012, Email: Krissi.neal@merlinentertainments.biz
Quilt Museum and Gallery
Embroidery workshop - Goldwork ‘Phoenix rising from the flames'
Saturday 6 November, 10am - 4pm
Create your own stunning interpretation of one of St Anthony'sHall's medieval roof bosses in this fabulous one-day workshop with City and Guilds tutor and Embroiderer, Ann Holden. Advance booking is essential for this workshop. A requirements list will be sent on booking.
Public contact: For bookings please contact York Adult Learning Service at Explore Library. Telephone: 01904 552806
Creative Gold and Metal Work - Embroidery Retreat with Tracy Franklin
Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 November , 10am - 4pm
£100 Quilters Guild and Embroiderers' Guild Members, £150 Non Guild Members
Join the fantastic and inspirational Tracy Franklin for this two-day Embroiderer's Retreat here at the Quilt Museum and Gallery in York.
Public contact: For more details and booking please call 01904 613242 or email info@quiltersguild.org.uk Press contact for The Quilt Museum: Contact Janet Rae, email janrae@ednet.co.uk
York Designer Outlet
Christmas at York Designer Outlet
Thursday 18 November, 4pm until 8pm
Join York Designer Outlet for their Christmas launch event when the centre will be lit up for the festive season. Enjoy free entertainment for the whole family including music, carol singing, mulled wine and mince pies. Plus for children, a family of animated bears will be singing popular yuletide songs and there will be early Christmas presents given away too.
Public contact: Visit http://www.yorkdesigneroutlet.com/
Press contact: Sally Gilbank 01904 682705 sally.gilbank@mcarthurglen.com
or Mammy Kufuor at Citypress 0161 2350314 mammy@citypress.co.uk
Castle Howard
NSPCC Christmas Shopping Fair
Friday 5 November
9.30am - 3.30pm
Castle Howard hosts the NSPCC's annual shopping extravaganza, offering unique and interesting Christmas gift ideas for the family. Tickets cost £7.50 per person with all proceeds to the NSPCC.
Castle Howard Wedding Fair
Sunday 7 November
Open from 11am
Enjoy browsing over 40 quality exhibitors in sumptuous surroundings at Castle Howard's first Wedding Fair. Tickets cost £10.00 for a pair if you pre-book online or £15.00 on the day. For more information call 01653 648632.
Christmas at Castle Howard
Saturday 27 November to Sunday 19 December
Enjoy a traditional family Christmas at Castle Howard with breathtaking decorations in magnificent surroundings. Open from 10am daily. For admission prices and details of how to book a visit to Father Christmas please see http://www.castlehoward.co.uk/
Meet Father Christmas at the Fireside
Saturday 27 & Sunday 28 November
The cosy fireside setting of the Grecian Hall is sure to delight children as they join others to meet Father Christmas for fun and stories. Tickets costs £10 per child, which includes a personalised invitation, admission to the House and gift. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Pre-book online at http://www.castlehoward.co.uk/
Artsmix Contemporary Art Market
Sunday 28 November
Shop and browse a unique mix of up-and-coming Yorkshire-based designers and artisans selling high quality ceramics, textiles, jewellery, sculpture, paintings and fashions in the Stable Courtyard at Castle Howard. The market which is organised in conjunction with the Leeds-based Artsmix enterprise (http://www.artsmix.co.uk/) is open 10.00am until 4.00pm with free admission.
North York Moors
Explore Danby Castle and Little Fryupdale
Wednesday 3 November, 10am to 12.30pm
Join Ranger Matt Fitzgerald on this free guided walk following field paths, tracks and quiet country lanes.
Please note the paths may be muddy in places. The Moors National Park Centre is around one mile from the Danby stop on the Esk Valley Railway.
Walk in the footsteps of Romans
Sunday 7 November, 1pm to 2pm
Cawthorn Camps near Pickering is one of Britain's finest Roman camps and has some wonderful views of the Tabular Hills, Cropton Forest and the surrounding moorland. Join Ranger Jay Marrison on an easy stroll around the camp to find out more about its fascinating history. The walk is free and is suitable for wheelchair users.
Light on Land
Saturday 13 to Sunday 28 November
Sutton Bank National Park Centre
Chris Ceaser has been photographing the North York Moors National Park for many years and has built up a beautiful and inspiring collection of images capturing the moors, dales and coast throughout the changing seasons. This free exhibition offers a chance to chat to Chris about his work and purchase greeting cards and a range of framed, mounted and canvas prints.
The Centre is open from 11am to 4pm and entry is free.
Artisan Christmas
Thursday 18 to Tuesday 30 November
The Moors National Park Centre, Danby
A not-to-be-missed opportunity to snap up some unique Christmas gifts made in the local area by members of regional arts and crafts association, Brigantia. Brigantia's members include artists and photographers, glass and jewellery makers, sculpters, woodturners and potters who create beautiful pieces inspired by the North Yorkshire landscape.
The Centre is open from 11am to 4pm and entry is free.
Christmas Fair
Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 November
The Moors National Park Centre, Danby
Get into the Christmas spirit at our Victorian Christmas Craft Fair with over 30 stalls selling festive food and crafts, a visit from Santa, pony-trap rides, barrel organ music and children's craft activities.
The event runs from 10.30am to 4.30pm and entry is free.
Public contact: For more information on any of the events above or to book, telephone 01439 772738.
Press contact: Rachel McIntosh, Communications Officer - North York Moors National Park Authority, Tel: 01439 770657 Email: r.mcintosh@northyorkmoors-npa.gov.uk
Christmas Craft & Produce Market
Monday 29 & Tuesday 30 November
Craft and Produce Market with over 20 stalls selling a mix of handmade crafts and delicious local produce for Christmas. Located in the Stable Courtyard - open from 10.00am until 4.00pm with free admission.
Public contact: Telephone 01653 648621or email house@castlehoward.co.uk
Press contact: Rachel Jack, telephone 01653 648624 or email rjack@castlehoward.co.uk
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal
Winter Abbey Tours
Saturday & Sunday 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28 November
1.30pm
Normal admission charges apply
Join a free tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the Abbey and monks. Meet at Porter's Lodge.
A Walk Through Time
Saturday 13 November
10.30am
Normal admission charges apply
Discover more about the natural history behind the landscape of Studley Park on this 2 hour walk. Meet at the Visitor Centre.
Public contact: For further details on all events, telephone 01765 608888.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Admission Prices:
Adult £8.50
Child £4.55
Under 5 FREE
Family £21.60
National Trust and English Heritage Members FREE
Open daily 10am-5pm
Further information, Tel: Estate Office, 01765 608888 / http://www.fountainsabbey.org.uk/
Press contact: Please contact Alexa Morton, Visitor Experience and Marketing Manager, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Estate Office, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY. Tel: 01765 643199. Email: alexa.morton@nationaltrust.org.uk
December Events 2010
Festival of Angels
11-12 December 2010
A true winter festival, transforming York's most unique streets into a winter wonderland of ice-sculptures, stalls, al fresco dining, street entertainment, live ice-carving and guaranteed "snow" showers. Popular with both visitors and residents the festival takes place on Saturday 11th from 11am until 6pm and Sunday 12th December from 11am until 5pm, across the streets of Swinegate, Back Swinegate and Grape Lane.
Public contact: For more information visit www.visityork.org/christmas
Press contact: Kay Hyde, PR Manager, Visit York, tel: 01904 554451, email: kh@visityork.org
York Early Music Christmas Festival
2-11 December 2010
The York Early Music Christmas Festival, promoted by the National Centre for Early Music takes place in December each year and is a popular way in which to start the Christmas season.
Public contact: For further information contact The National Centre for Early Music, St Margaret's Church, Walmgate, York, YO1 9TL. Tel (01904) 632220 or visit the website at www.ncem.co.uk
Press contact: Melanie Paris, tel: 01904 632220, email: Melanie.Paris@ncem.co.uk
York Minster
Handel's Messiah
Saturday 4 December, 7.30pm
Tickets £9 - £20.
York Minster provides the perfect setting for Handel's magnificent musical telling of the life of Christ. Performed by York Musical Society.
York Minster's Christmas Carol Concert
Friday 10 December, 7pm
Tickets £10 - £20
The Minster's annual ever-popular Carol Concert features the Songmen and Choristers of the Minster Choir who will be joined by readers Michael Palin and Honeysuckle Weeks. Minster Choir ‘Christmas from York' CDs will be available for sale (£10).
Public contact: Visit http://www.boxoffice.yorkminster.org/ or telephone 0844 939 0011 for more information or to book tickets for York Minster concerts and events in December.
Press contact: Lisa Sinclair, Communications and Marketing Officer,
Tel: 01904 557248
Mansion House
What the Dickens?
16th - 17th December, 7.30pm
Tickets £12. Includes a mince pie and a mulled wine.
Gather in the glorious setting of the state room to hear about the life of the great novelist, together with songs from musicals based on his stories, all presented by York Musical Theatre Company. This intimate evening revives a long tradition of Christmas entertainment in the Mansion House by this company, which was founded in 1902. Just the thing to get you in the festive spirit!
Public contact: Pre-booking: 01904 615505.
Press contact: David Scott, telephone 01904 543426 or email dscott@yorkat.co.uk
Barley Hall
Throughout December
Deck the Halls, 10am - 3pm
Normal admission prices apply
Visit Barely Hall during the festive season and see the house beautifully decorated to celebrate a medieval Christmas.
Meet the family
4th and 5th, 11th and 12th, 18th and 19th of December, 10am to 3pm
Normal admission prices apply
Meet members of the Snawsell family, help them to prepare for Christmas and find out more about life at Barley Hall.
A Medieval Christmas
9th December
Every twenty minutes from 6pm - 8pm, ring for details, Barley Hall, £6 adult, £4 conc. Includes a goblet of mulled wine.
Enjoy a festive atmosphere with Lord and Lady Snawsell and their family, with tales and music to entertain you into the night. Pre-booking essential: 01904 615505.
Public contact: Visit www.barleyhall.org.uk , telephone 01904 610275 or email barleyhall@yorkat.co.uk
Press contact: David Scott, telephone 01904 543426 or email dscott@yorkat.co.uk
Bedern Hall
The Feast of Christmas
16 December 2010
Our 5th successive year of this popular event. Tickets are already selling fast. For anyone curious about the foods we eat at Christmas, join us for a hotch-potch of good food, wine, company and entertainment.
Tickets: £40 including welcome drink, 5 courses and entertainment. Booking closes 9 December 2010.
Public contact: For more information, telephone 01904 646030 or visit http://www.bedernhall.co.uk/ Press contact: Roger Lee, Tel: 01904 646030, email: roger@bedernhall.co.uk
Fairfax House
Christmas Twilight Tour
Thursday 2 December
This exclusive led by York Civic Trust Director, Peter Brown, who will be talking about how the Georgians would have celebrated Christmas, including details of the foods they would have eaten. This will be followed by mulled wine and mince pies.
Christmas Floral Decoration Workshops
Tuesday 7 December 1.30pm to 5pm, at the Friends' Meeting House, York (for wreaths)
Saturday 11 December 1.30pm to 5pm, at the Friends' Meeting House, York (for table decorations)
Hands-on workshops giving visitors to Fairfax House the opportunity to make their own Christmas wreaths on 7 December and table decorations on 11 December.
Winter's Tales
Sunday 12 December, 11am and Sunday 19 December, 11am and 4pm
Christmas story-telling sessions where Molly the scullery maid takes visitors through Fairfax House, sharing festive stories and reading classic tales from Dickens and Wind in the Willows.
Public contact: For more detailed information about any of the activities happening please visit http://www.fairfaxhouse.co.uk/ email info@fairfaxhouse.co.uk or ring 01904 655543. Press contact: Hannah Phillip, tel: 01904 655543 email: hannahphillip@yorkcivictrust.co.uk or Melanie Paris, tel: 01904 647408, email: hello@melanieparis.com
Quilt Museum and Gallery
Fabulous Felt Flowers
Friday 17 December, 10am- 2pm
£10 plus cost of materials
Join felt maker Chris for a fabulously floral workshop and learn how to make felt flowers using two different wet-felting methods.
Public contact: Advance booking and payment essential - call 01904 613242 or email info@quiltersguild.org.uk for more information.
Christmas workshop
Saturday 11 December , 10am - 12.30pm & 1.30pm- 4pm
£5 per person, per session
Christmas workshop using sewing and embroidery machines for visitors aged 7 - 16 years. Get in the festive spirit by joining in this special yuletide workshop with Jamie from VSM. Children can use embroidery and sewing machines to create their own Christmas project to take home.
Booking essential - places fill quickly so please book early.
Public contact: Call 01904 613242 or email info@quiltersguild.org.uk to book.
Festive Fabric Fun for Families (Tots to tens and their families)
Wednesday 22 December, 11am - 1pm & 2pm - 3.30pm
This fun, simple workshop is designed to get the whole family making projects from recycled fabrics. No need to book. Free drop-in workshops.
Places allocated on a ‘first-come, first-served' basis on the day.
Public contact: Call 01904 613242 for more information. Press contact for The Quilt Museum: Contact Janet Rae, email janrae@ednet.co.uk
York Designer Outlet
Late night shopping
Thursday 2 December - 30 December 2010
Late night shopping starts on Thursday 2 December when the centre will be open until 8pm Monday to Saturday until 30th December. Plus for a little help this year in finding that perfect Christmas gift or festive outfit customers can book a free 2 hour personal shop.* (*excludes Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day).
Public contact: For more information, visit http://www.yorkdesigneroutlet.com/ or call Customer Information on 01904 682700.
Press contact: Sally Gilbank, Marketing Manager, Tel: 01904 682705
Castle Howard
Meet Father Christmas at the Fireside
Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 December, Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 December, Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 December
The cosy fireside setting of the Grecian Hall is sure to delight children as they join others to meet Father Christmas for fun and stories. Tickets costs £10 per child, which includes a personalised invitation, admission to the House and gift. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult. Pre-book online at http://www.castlehoward.co.uk/
Christmas Craft & Produce Market
Tuesday 7 & Wednesday 8 December, Tuesday 14 December
Craft and Produce Market with over 20 stalls selling a mix of handmade crafts and delicious local produce for Christmas. Located in the Stable Courtyard - open from 10.00am until 4.00pm with free admission.
Classical Christmas Evening Dinner
Wednesday 8 December, Wednesday 15 December
Enjoy a fabulous evening of traditional Christmas fare in the elegant Long Gallery with musical accompaniment. The evening starts at 7.30pm with a drinks reception in the Great hall. Tickets cost £55 per person. Pre-booking is essential - for details visit http://www.castlehoward.co.uk/ or call 01653 648632.
Public contact: Telephone 01653 648621or email house@castlehoward.co.uk
Press contact: Rachel Jack, telephone 01653 648624 or email rjack@castlehoward.co.uk
North York Moors
Beneath the Restless Sky
Wednesday 1 December - Sunday 30 January 2011
The Moors National Park Centre, Danby
Joe Cornish is one of the UK's most acclaimed landscape photographers. He has worked in some of the world's most stunning locations but is still obsessed by the dramatic and contrasting landscape found on his own North Yorkshire doorstep. This breathtaking exhibition will showcase the North York Moors National Park in all its glory and should provide plenty of inspiration to get out and explore.
The Centre is open daily from 11am to 4pm throughout December and on weekends only from 11am to 4pm in January.
Public contact: For more information or to book an event, telephone 01439 772738.
Press contact: Rachel McIntosh, Communications Officer - North York Moors National Park Authority, Tel: 01439 770657 Email: r.mcintosh@northyorkmoors-npa.gov.uk
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal
Christmas Theatre - Mr Fezziwig's Christmas
Thursday 2 December
7.30pm
Guaranteed to rouse your Christmas spirit, a great start to the season for all the family. Pre-theatre festive suppers available in Fountains Restaurant. Booking essential, tel. 01765 643164 / 643199 or email. fountainsbookings@nationaltrust.org.uk
Winter Abbey Tours
Saturday & Sunday 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 December
1.30pm
Normal admission prices apply
Join a free tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the Abbey and monks. Meet at Porter's Lodge.
Music & Lights
Saturdays & Sundays 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 December
3.30pm - 5pm
Normal admission prices apply
Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Abbey and Hall bathed in coloured lights with seasonal music. Last admission 4pm.
Christmas Twinkle - Angels and Stars
Saturdays & Sundays 4-5, 11-12 & 18 - 31 December
11am-3pm
Normal admission prices apply
Make your own Christmas decorations for our trees or to take home. Drop in self-led activities for children in Swanley Grange.
Christmas Lunches
Monday 6 - Thursday 23 December (Mon-Thu only)
12pm-1.30pm
Bring your family, friends or work colleagues to enjoy a delicious three course Christmas lunch in Fountains restaurant. Booking essential, tel. 01765 643198 or email. Fountainsbookings@nationaltrust.org.uk
Christmas Theatre - A Yorkshire Christmas Carol
Thursday 9 December
7.30pm
Enjoy festive theatre for all the family. Pre-theatre suppers available in Fountains Restaurant. Booking essential, tel. 01765 643164 / 643199 or email. fountainsbookings@nationaltrust.org.uk
On the Hoof
Saturday 11 - Sunday 12 December & Tuesday 28 December
10.45am - 12.45pm
Enjoy the sight of the wild deer herd munching through their winter feed. 15 minute walk from the Visitor Centre, by St Mary's church.
Traditional Christmas Evening
Saturday 11 & Saturday 18 December
6pm-10.30pm
Enjoy a seasonal four course dinner with live Christmas entertainment in the floodlit Abbey ruins and Fountains Restaurant. Booking essential, tel. 01765 643198 email. fountainsbookings@nationaltrust.org.uk
Carols by Candlelight
Sunday 12 December
3pm
Normal admission prices apply
Traditional carol service in the Abbey with candles for children.
Christmas Story-telling
Monday 20 December
2pm
Lots of Christmas stories. Suitable for 4-9 year olds. Booking essential, tel. 01765 643166.
Christmas Abbey Tour
Monday 27 - Thursday 30 December
1.30pm
Normal admission prices apply
Join a free tour to discover fascinating facts and stories about the Abbey and monks. Meet at Porter's Lodge.
Public contact: For further details on all events, telephone 01765 608888.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Admission Prices:
Adult £8.50
Child £4.55
Under 5 FREE
Family £21.60
National Trust and English Heritage Members FREE
Open daily 10am-5pm
Further information, Tel: Estate Office, 01765 608888 / http://www.fountainsabbey.org.uk/
Press contact: Please contact Alexa Morton, Visitor Experience and Marketing Manager, Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal, Estate Office, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 3DY. Tel: 01765 643199. Email: alexa.morton@nationaltrust.org.uk
Events running throughout November and December 2010
York Castle Museum
Christmas at the Castle
25 November - 24 December 2010
See, hear and taste the traditions of Christmases past this year as York Castle Museum comes alive with the festive spirit. The museum's world famous Victorian Street Kirkgate will be decked with holly and decorations, carols will fill the air and vendors will sell traditional Christmas gifts. Explore the traditions of Christmas in the museum's period rooms that have been transformed with all the trimmings of the festive period - such as a full Christmas banquet in the Jacobean Room.
Public contact: For more information visit http://www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/
Press contact: Lee Clark, Media Co-ordinator, Tel: 01904 687673, email: lee.clark@ymt.org.uk
York Art Gallery
Hats
Until 23 January 2011
The etiquette of when and where to wear hats is the theme of a new exhibition opening at York Art Gallery this Autumn.
Works featuring hats by Bernini, Jacques-Émile Blanche and Spencer Gore will be displayed alongside real 19th and 20th Century head garments from the York Castle Museum Collection.
The exhibition will use the works as a basis to explore some of the social rules and trends which have influenced headwear in the last 400 years.
Public contact: For more information visit http://www.yorkartgallery.org.uk/
Press contact: Lee Clark, Media Co-ordinator, Tel: 01904 687673, email: lee.clark@ymt.org.uk
Fairfax House
Reflections: Fairfax House through the eyes of Contemporary Artists
Until Friday 31 December
Fairfax House's autumn exhibition, featuring the works of 12 nationally-renowned artists who will use the interior, exterior and architectural details of the House as their inspiration. This is a selling exhibition in partnership with Kentmere House Gallery in York.
The Keeping of Christmas
Saturday 27 November until Friday 31 December
This popular exhibition returns giving visitors the chance to see the House decorated for a Georgian Christmas.
Public contact: For more detailed information about any of the activities happening please visit http://www.fairfaxhouse.co.uk/ email info@fairfaxhouse.co.uk or ring 01904 655543. Press contact: Hannah Phillip, tel: 01904 655543 email: hannahphillip@yorkcivictrust.co.uk or Melanie Paris, tel: 01904 647408, email: hello@melanieparis.com
Mansion House
A Mansion House Christmas
25th November - 11th December
Thursdays / Fridays / Saturdays; 11am / 12.30pm / 2pm, York Mansion House, £5 adult, £4 conc. Children and York residents visit for free.
Guided tours of the Mansion House dressed for Christmas. Post a letter to Father Christmas in the Lapland Letterbox.
Public contact: Pre-booking: 01904 615505.
Press contact: David Scott, telephone 01904 543426 or email dscott@yorkat.co.uk
York Theatre Royal
The Big Fellah
Tuesday 2 to Saturday 6 November
Set among Irish Americans in New York, Richard Bean's dark, glinting, funny story of loyalty, disillusion and betrayal spans three turbulent decades.
The Big Fellah is directed by the legendary Max Stafford-Clark, former artistic director of the Royal Court, where his work included the premieres of Serious Money, Top Girls and Our Country's Good.
Suitable for 14+
In My Father's House
Wednesday 3 to Saturday 6 November 2010, 6pm, 7pm, 8pm and 9pm
Tickets: £5 adults, £4 students and u25s
Location: Fairfax House
Anne Fairfax inherited Fairfax House from her father in 1772. His ambition was for her to raise a family, an heir for him, and live contentedly surrounded by wealth in the bustling centre of York. However, Anne's life was to take a very different course.
This site specific performance at Fairfax House, performed by York Theatre Royal Youth Theatre, has been specially commissioned to reflect the history and hidden stories of Fairfax House, and will be performed in the very rooms where Anne lived.
Oleanna
Thursday 4 to Sat 27 November
Pulitzer Prize winner David Mamet's thrilling powerplay of status and sexual politics unfolds into a tension layered mystery in this, one of the outstanding plays of the twentieth century. Contains strong language.
The Three Musketeers and the Princess of Spain
Tuesday 9 to Saturday 13 November
Dominic Hill directs a lively swashbuckling tale of The Three Musketeers and the Princess of Spain in a surreal and anarchic new adaptation by Chris Hannan of Alexandre Dumas' classic story.
The Game
Tuesday 23 to Sat 27 November
From Northern Broadsides the team behind the highly acclaimed productions of Othello and The Canterbury Tales, and Harold Brighouse, the creator of the much loved Hobson's choice, comes The Game, a northern comedy about love, honour, class ... and football. The rare revival runs at York Theatre Royal from the 23 to 27 November.
Jack and the Beanstalk
Thu 9 Dec to Sat 29 Jan
Tickets: £10 - £25
Once of the most popular stories ever told is about to get the full panto blockbuster treatment as only York Theatre Royal know how.
Expect spectacular sets and costumes. Expect laughs galore and slapstick in abundance. Expect mad-cap mayhem and lunacy. Above all, expect the unexpected as Berwick Kaler wreaks his zany anarchy on yet another pantomime classic.
Public contact: For a full list of events happening at York Theatre Royal in November and December or to find out further performance information and make a booking, visit http://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/ or telephone 01904 623568.
Press contact: Rebecca Storey, Press & Media Manager, York Theatre Royal, Tel: 01904 550149, Email: Rebecca.storey@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk
Grand Opera House, York
It's non-stop music this November, we have a colourful start with the irresistible Joseph, starring Any Dream Will Do runner-up Keith Jack. Followed by a week of Dreamboats and Petticoats, direct from the West End and featuring songs such as Let's Dance, To Know Him Is To Love Him, Shaking All Over, Bobby's Girl and many more big hits. Monty Python's Spamalot, winner of the Best Musical Tony Award, completes the musical roundup for the month. Starring Marcus Brigstocke, Todd Carty, Amy Nuttall and featuring Eric Idle as God (a recording! They couldn't afford to cart this God-like comic round the country!).
More music with the legendary Sheffield-born singer/songwriter Paul Carrack. He's back on tour to promote his new album I Know That Name. Former Catatonia singer Cerys Matthews who has firmly established herself as one of the country's great vocal talents will perform a largely acoustic show of songs spanning her career. Barclay James Harvest, a progressive and experimental 60's band using orchestral ensembles. Other one nighters include: The Rat Pack, Pop Goes The 80's, Beyond The Barricade and Lady Boys of Bangkok.
And now for something completely different - Jedward - With two Irish tours and a debut album ‘Planet Jedward' under their belts, the Jedward phenomenon shows no sign of abating. Now, the duo that caused a national sensation with their gravity defying quiffs and lively performances are embarking on their first UK tour, performing high-octane favourites from their hugely successful sell out Irish tour, all reinterpreted in the boys' inimitable style.
December kicks off with an evening of clairvoyance with psychic medium Tony Stockwell. Some stand-up comedy from Ross Noble in Non-Sensory Overload. The York based outfit Mostly Autumn return with the upcoming ‘Go Well Diamond Heart' tour of the UK. As the festive season approaches The Chuckle Brothers bring us Twelve Days of Christmas where Santa Claus and Paul and Barry Elf battle Jack Frost.
Our spectacular family pantomime this year is an old favourite: Cinderella. Starring Lisa Riley (Fat Friends, Emmerdale), Stuart Wade (Emmerdale), Jen Pringle (Milkshake) and Syd Little.
Public contact: To find out more about what's on in November and December or to book tickets please visit http://www.grandoperahouseyork.org.uk/ or Tel: 0844 847 2322
Press contact: Celestine Dubruel, email: celestinedubruel@theambassadors.com or Tel: 01904 678711
Visit York Press Contact Details:
Kay Hyde, PR Manager, Visit York Tel: 01904 554451 Email: kh@visityork.org,
Katie Porter, PR Executive, Visit York Tel: 01904 554436 Email mailto:sl@visityork.org
Public Contact Details:
York Visitor Information Centre Tel: 01904 550099 or visit http://www.visityork.org/ for details of all events happening in and around York.