Dog Friendly Christmas Events 2024.
Many of us will be anticipating getting into the Christmas spirit. It’s such a lovely time of the year to get together with family and friends and do ‘Christmassy’ things. There’s so many seasonal holiday events going on throughout the UK and now, many places welcome the family dog too – so Fido doesn’t have to miss out on the festive fun. If you’re looking for dog friendly Christmas events this year – check out our Holidays4Dogs article for some ideas.
It’s lovely to include dogs in family events, but do bear in mind, not every dog will enjoy the experience. Christmas markets and shopping events can be bustling and not every dog will enjoy this. If your dog is nervous of new, or novel, situations they might just prefer a cosy night in with a nice long-lasting chew! If you do take your pet along, remember most events require dogs are kept on short leads.
It is also worth bearing in mind that many event locations may use grit on the ground if the weather is very cold. This can contain chemicals, which may irritate sensitive paws. Remember to wash your dog’s paws when they get home.
Don’t forget, if you fancy a weekend getaway to any of these events and would rather not take your dog – you can book one of our lovely Holidays4Dogs carers, local to you – and give your dog a festive break all of their own! Follow the paw to find out more!
The Piece Hall, Halifax.
The magnificent Piece Hall courtyard will be transformed into a winter wonderland again this year. Dogs are permitted outside as well as the indoor spaces. There will be a winter makers market, packed with artisan gifts and goodies – as well as live performances and other festive attractions.
The magnificent Peace Hall in Halifax, will be transformed into a winter wonderland this festive season.
Cotswold Farm Park.
This year, Cotswold Farm Park is welcoming dogs to their ‘Enchanted Light Trail for Dogs’. You can take your dog for a stroll around the farm and marvel at the pretty light displays along the way. Included in your ticket is a complementary photo of your dog, taken with Father Christmas at the end of the trail.
Dobbies Garden Centres.
Between the 5th and 24th December you can visit your local Dobbies garden centre to visit Father Christmas. Your dog will get a toy to take home – the cost is £9.99. As well as a gift from Santa, there will photo opportunities, so you can capture the moment with a professional photograph. Booking is essential and as the garden centres are working with Dogs Trust, you can add a donation to them at the booking stage.
At the Dobbies garden centre Santa Paws events – your pooch can have their photograph taken with Father Christmas and receive a gift – (£9.99 and booking is essential).
Christmas at Calke Abbey, Derbyshire.
Christmas events at Calke Abbey will be open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday between the 6th and 22nd of December 2024. There will be festive fairs and illuminated light trails. In addition, Father Christmas and Mrs Claus will be in attendance and plenty of comfort food available in the cafe. Dogs are welcome on short leads. Assistance dogs only are allowed inside the house. For more festive events at National Trust properties you can find out more here.
Matlock Victorian Christmas Market.
Matlock, set in the heart of the beautiful Peak District, is a wonderful place to visit for that festive fix. The Victorian Christmas market is quaint and relatively quiet, so ideal for taking along the family pooch.
There will be plenty of stalls selling hand-made goods and seasonal treats. Finally, to top it all off, on the last night there will be a fireworks display. However, it’s best to leave your pooch at home for that event.
Winter Glow – Worcestershire.
The Three Counties Showground, nestled beneath the Malvern Hills, are putting on their Winter Glow light display again for 2024. The Malvern Hills are a magnificent backdrop for the illuminated walk, Christmas market, ice rink and fair.
On certain days, throughout November and December, you can take your dog along to Santa paws events. (Please check the website for specific days, as not every day is dog friendly).
Your pooch can even have their photo taken with Father Christmas and receive a gift. After all that, you can then wander through the market and through the illuminated light trail. Booking is required.
Looking down from the wintry Malvern Hills towards the Three Counties Showground, where the Winter Glow is being held in 2024.
