WITH Christmas just around the corner, there's a huge range of festive events taking place across Cumbria to get locals into the magical spirit.

By Hollie Rees

We've put together a list of the best music-filled events, Christmas markets, festivals, shows and more.

Festivals

Keswick Live Advent Calendar - Thursday December 1 to Saturday December 24

Visit the centre of Keswick throughout December, where there will be a different pop-up festive event each day, accompanied by the illumination of a festive themed lit window at 4pm.
Keswick Live Advent

The illuminated windows will stay lit until early January so visitors can still follow the festive trail once December is over.

Ulverston's Dickensian Festival - Saturday November 26 to Sunday November 27

This year's 17th annual festival is set to be a memorable day out for the whole family.


Dickensian Festival Put together your best costume and head to Ulverston town centre from 10am both days to experience a wide range of food, children's activities, music performers and more.

UVHS Christmas Festival - Tuesday December 13

An evening of festive music and seasonal readings for all the family - delivered by one of the leading music departments in the country.

The show is guaranteed to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.


Family fun

Brockhole's Handmade Christmas - Saturday December 3 to Sunday December 4

Grab the family and drop in to Brockhole between 11am and 4pm.
Christmas crafts

Once there, you can make a stunning Christmas tree decoration before relaxing, sitting back and enjoying some Lakeland storytelling.

Santa Cruise with Ullswater 'Steamers' - Sunday December 18

Set sail with this magical boat on a fun festive journey leaving from Glenridding in both the morning and afternoon.

Activities on-board include a meet and greet with Santa plus a magic show, with complimentary hot drinks and mince pies for parents.

Christmas Tea Party at Old Laundry Theatre - Saturday December 10 & Sunday 11, Monday 19 & Tuesday 20

Go and enjoy one of the very special festive tea parties featuring a delicious party lunch and presents from Santa himself.

The afternoon will also feature a special showing of the classic animation of The Tailor of Gloucester.

Santa Express at Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway - Saturday November 26 & Sunday 27, Saturday December 3 & Sunday 4, Saturday 10 & Sunday 11, Saturday 17 to Thursday 22


Ravenglass Santa Express All aboard! Enjoy a magical journey on-board the Santa Express when kids can meet Santa, receive a present and explore his Dalegarth grotto.

Parents will receive a complimentary tea, coffee or mulled wine and a mince pie.

Santa Express at Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway - Saturday December 3 & Sunday 4, Saturday 10 & Sunday 11, Saturday 17 & Sunday 18

Catch this magical train full of carols, elves and decorations, with memories that children will cherish forever.

Santa even makes his way into the carriage for a special delivery of handpicked presents, as parents enjoy seasonal drinks and festive treats.

Christmas Fun Weekend - Saturday December 3 & Sunday December 4

Join Santa and head to Carlisle's Tullie House for a fun-filled festive weekend.

Between 11am and 4pm, children and parents alike can enjoy face painting, Christmas crafts, storytelling and an exciting Christmas trail.

Rheged’s Festive Family Fun Day - Sunday November 27

Visit the free festive wonderland created inside Rheged’s Mountain Hall from 10am.

There's a spectacular indoor helter skelter, a range of performers, a pottery painting studio, film screenings and storytelling. Don't forget your Christmas jumper - the wackiest will win a prize!

Music & Shows

Carolling & Crumpets - Friday December 16 to Sunday December 18



John Kirkpatrick Held at Skirwith Village Hall, Heads Nook Hall and Bolton Memorial Hall, join folk star John Kirkpatrick as he conjures up an evening of toe tapping tunes and cracking choruses.

The evening promises entertainment of the highest quality which will warm everyone up on a cold winter's night.

A Jazz Christmas Carol - Sunday December 18


A family night out, a treat for the jazz connoisseur or a delight for anyone who loves music, literature or Christmas, this show has something for everyone.

Join Scrooge at The Theatre By The Lake as the ghosts take him on a tour of his life while celebrating the spirit of jazz greats past and present.


A Brief History of Christmas - Thursday December 15


The Kirkgate in Cockermouth presents the perfect show for anyone looking to recapture the simple Yuletide delights of fellowship, laughter and good cheer.

Humour and wit, music and song, and cake and tea make up this enjoyable evening.


Christmas Party Nights at Solway Hall - Friday December 2 & Saturday 3, Friday 9 & Saturday 10, Thursday 15, Saturday 17 & Sunday 18, Thursday 22

The Whitehaven venue is hosting a series of Christmas parties throughout the month. A buffet paired with a disco is perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit.

With each night featuring live entertainment from a different tribute act, including Absolutely ABBA and The Ivy League, there will be a perfect party for everyone.

Markets


Askham Hall Askham Hall Christmas Market - Sunday December 7


Following the success of previous years, this year's Christmas market is set to be even more popular.

Based both inside and outside the stunning converted barn, it's the perfect place for Christmas shopping and a lovely family day out.

Kirkby Lonsdale's Christmas Fair - Friday December 2 to Sunday December 4


The annual Christmas fair and market begins at 4pm on the Friday and will see locals and visitors enjoy parades, entertainment, music, festive shopping, food and drink over the weekend.

The packed event will also feature the traditional festive parade and the official switch-on of the lights - ideal for getting the whole family into the Christmas spirit.