Santa Claus is returning to Woolwich this Christmas as Woolwich Works prepares to host its popular festive grotto from November 28 until December 23. Tickets for the winter wonderland go on sale from October 1, with the grotto forming part of a wider programme of festive family events at the riverside arts venue.
Nick Williams, director of Woolwich Works, said: "Christmas is one of our favourite times of year at Woolwich Works and we’re delighted to be welcoming Santa and his elves back to Woolwich by popular demand. We want the Grotto to feel like the heart of a really special festive day out, with plenty for families to discover across the venue before and after they meet the Big Man himself."
Festive Programme Highlights
The festive season kicks off on November 22 with the National Children’s Orchestras Winter Concert 2026, featuring 13 and 14-year-old musicians performing works by Holst, John Williams, Gershwin and Copland. Younger children can enjoy The Magic Flute on December 5, a family dance-theatre adaptation of Mozart’s opera presented by Woolwich Works’ resident company, Luca Silvestrini’s Protein. The show is recommended for ages seven and up, with performances at 11.30am and 3pm.
On December 6, BYMT Presents ’26 will showcase emerging talent from the British Youth Music Theatre’s 2026 season, featuring performers aged 11 to 21 and highlights from productions staged at venues including Greenwich Theatre and Birmingham Hippodrome.
Inclusive and Family-Friendly Events
Woolwich Works will also host a Winter SEND Family Fun & Info Day on December 12. The free event is designed for families of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, offering festive activities, support, and information about services in Greenwich.
On December 13, Hikapee’s The Elf Factory will entertain audiences inside a sherbet factory run by three eccentric elves. The show blends science, circus, physical theatre, and music, and is suitable for all ages. Performances are at 1pm and 3pm. A Christmas Carol, performed by Mat Jones using Charles Dickens’ original public-reading text, will be staged on December 17. The one-man show is recommended for audiences aged 12 and above.
More Festive Fun and Adult Events
Woolwich Works will also host a special edition of Karaoke At The Works on December 18. The free kids’ session begins at 6.30pm and will be hosted by cabaret regulars Binkie and Maud. On December 19, families can join Santa’s Silent Disco from 4pm to 6pm, held in the Fireworks Factory, featuring wireless LED headphones, three music channels, glow sticks, face painting, and a guest appearance by Santa.
Baby Gospel Christmas Family Concert 2026 will close out the programme on December 21. Members of the CK Gospel Choir will perform a 45-minute concert of festive favourites, carols, soul, gospel, and Motown, especially recommended for children aged 0 to 8. The wider Christmas season includes adult-focused events such as live comedy, cabaret, and music, including The Comedy Store, Brixton Chamber Orchestra, Drag the Halls, and Drag Bingo UK: Festive Edition.
Tickets for all events, including Santa’s Grotto, go on sale on October 1. Pricing, session times, and booking details are available on the Woolwich Works website. The venue is located on the Royal Arsenal. Woolwich Works has described the programme as an "eclectic alternative to panto."
