There’ll be plenty of festive cheer in South Woodford this November and December with plenty of events for all the community to enjoy. Kris Kringle reports
As the crisp winter air rolls in and the aroma of mulled spices drifts through South Woodford, preparations are well underway for another season of local festive gatherings. It’s a time to embrace the warmth of community and the joy of shared celebrations.
Charity Christmas Bazaar
23 November; 11am to 3pm (entry: £2)
Woodford Memorial Hall, High Road
Father Christmas visits also available at extra cost.
Woodford Christmas Craft Market
30 November; 10am to 3pm (free entry)
Woodford Memorial Hall, High Road
Providing local creatives with a platform to showcase their wares.
Christmas lights switch-on
6 December; from 3.30pm (free)
George Lane roundabout, South Woodford
Join Santa for the switching on of South Woodford’s Christmas lights and a jolly singalong of festive songs with Oakdale Choir, Redbridge Music Lounge and Brook Brass. Meet Woodford Panto characters and enjoy festive refreshments.
On-screen festive performances
from 7 December; (tickets: ££15)
Odeon, High Road, South Woodford
From André Rieu’s dazzling Christmas Concert to Royal Ballet and Opera’s performances of Cinderella and The Nutcracker, enjoy these live shows from the comfort of your local cinema.
A Celtic Christmas
8 December; 3pm to 4.30pm (tickets: £15.50)
Redbridge Drama Centre, South Woodford
Enjoy cherished carols sung with an ethereal beauty and performed on traditional instruments. Featuring beloved songs such as Joy to the World, The Holly and the Ivy and We Three Kings, this is Christmas music entwined with ancient festive folk tunes.
The Snow Queen
14, 15 and 21 December; various times
(adults: £16.50; children: £15)
Redbridge Drama Centre, South Woodford
With magic, mystery and lots of laughs, Redbridge Drama Centre brings you a modern adaptation of this classic tale.
Santa’s Christmas Workshop
14, 15 and 21 December; various times
(adults: £7; children: £15)
Redbridge Drama Centre, South Woodford
Come and visit Santa’s workshop, where Santa and his hard-working elves are busily getting ready for the big day. Elves will welcome you to their magical interactive Christmas show, after which Miss Christmas will take you to the elves workshop, where you will be able to make a Christmas decoration and write your letter to Santa. Next, you will be invited to meet Father Christmas himself, in the grotto. His helpful elves can then take your photo with your own phone or camera.
South Woodford Christmas Market
15 December; 11am to 5pm
George Lane, South Woodford
The monthly community market – offering a wide range of food and craft products – will be a family-friendly event with Christmas fayre, activities and entertainment.
Local school and church events
Festive fun, gift stalls, special events and services – too many to include here, so check the full listings to see what’s on.
For more information on these and other Christmas events in South Woodford, visit swvg.co.uk/christmas24
