The festive season is upon us, and whilst it’s a magical time of year for families we know how expensive it can be to keep children entertained with events and activities, and how Santa’s shopping list can sometimes seem never-ending! So we thought we'd help our fellow parents out by sharing five exciting things to do with children in London this December which won't cost you a penny!

And if you're looking for affordable childcare for the school holidays, scroll to the bottom to read about The Strings Club's Winter Holiday Camps and the ways that you can save on your booking.

1: Enjoy a festive family film for free

RSA House, a beautiful Georgian townhouse located just off the Strand, is inviting families to join them for a special festive edition of their Kids’ Cinema Club, with the chance to enjoy a daytime screening of The Polar Express - the 2004 film about a young boy's magical adventure to the North Pole. Admission is free, or £5 with a goodybag too!

Tuesday 19 December, 1pm
RSA House, 8 John Adam Street, London, WC2N 6EZ

2: Take a stroll with a snowman

Discover the enchantment of Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman™ with Walking With The Snowman™ at Fleet Street Quarter this festive season. Twelve artist-designed sculptures, inspired by The Twelve Days of Christmas, will adorn streets like Chancery Lane and Fleet Street. See if you and your little ones can spot them all!

Until 5 January
Fleet Street Quarter (download map)

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3. Spread some yuletide joy with Baby Gospel

Bring the whole family to Baby Gospel's special musical celebration at The Museum of London Docklands, featuring festive tunes, Motown hits, and Christmas classics performed by the amazing CK Gospel Choir.

Wednesday 20 December, 11am & 2pm
Museum of London Docklands, West India Quay, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL

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4: Be dazzled by The Luminaze

Embark on a mesmerising adventure through The Luminaze, a dazzling neon light maze in Wembley Park. Visitors of all ages can experience cutting-edge installations and a curated soundscape, including a four-metre masterpiece The Hourglass, featuring bespoke artwork inspired by local talents.

Until 2 January
Samovar Space, Olympic Way, Wembley Park

5: Explore events at your local library

Libraries are always a great bet for finding free family events, and this December is no exception - from storytelling sessions and craft workshops to seasonal performances, there’s so much to enjoy whilst fostering your child’s love for reading. For families in southwest London, Merton Libraries have a fab collection of seasonal events, including a regular Storytime with Santa; card, tree and elf-inspired crafting; and a special festive reading from author Sarah Jane Brereton.

Throughout December
Your local library

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Winter Holiday Activities Near You
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If you’re on the hunt for fun, exciting things to do with your children, we hope our ideas above provide some inspiration. But if you’re looking for childcare during the Winter holidays, then we'd love to welcome your child to one of our Holiday Camps near you.

We're so excited to welcome children to our Holiday Camps in Richmond, Hampstead and Dulwich from 18th-21st December (and Harborne, for families who are based further north).

There are multiple ways to save on our Holiday Camps, including 10% off for first time bookers, childcare vouchers, tax-free childcare and a sibling discount.