The Christmas school holidays are a wonderful chance to spend time with your children, enjoy festive entertainment and discover family attractions across Lancashire. From colourful Christmas lights and Santa experiences to indoor soft play, ice skating and winter wildlife walks, there's plenty to keep little ones entertained. Whether you're planning a festive outing before Christmas Day, looking for activities between Christmas and New Year or searching for affordable family days out, there are lots of ways to enjoy the Christmas holidays in Lancashire. With the school break beginning after Friday 18 December 2026 for most Lancashire schools, here are 20 fun indoor and outdoor activities for families with children of different ages.

20 Best Things to Do With Kids During the Christmas Holidays in Lancashire

1. Enjoy Christmas Holiday Adventures at Jungle World Park

If you're looking for indoor entertainment during the winter school holidays, Jungle World Park is a fun place to start.

With indoor play centres in Leyland and Blackpool, Jungle World Park offers activities for children aged 0–12, including dedicated areas for babies, toddlers and older children.

At the Leyland venue, children can enjoy:

• Multi-level soft play frames and climbing areas
• A large indoor slide
• A dedicated toddler play zone
• Ball pits, trampolines and sports play
• Laser tag for children aged five and above
• Safari electric go-karts

Families can also enjoy refreshments at the Tropical Tiki Café.

The centre offers different play sessions for different age groups, including Jungle Rebels sessions during weekends and school holidays. Calmer disability-friendly sessions are also available at advertised times.

Best for: Toddlers, children aged 0–12, rainy days and families with siblings of different ages.

Planning tip: Check Jungle World Leyland sessions or Blackpool play sessions before visiting. Some attractions cost extra, and holiday opening hours may differ from the usual timetable.

2. Experience Christmas By The Sea in Blackpool

Location: Tower Festival Headland, Blackpool

Christmas By The Sea is one of Lancashire's major festive attractions.

The event transforms the area near Blackpool Tower into a Christmas village with seasonal entertainment and illuminated displays.

Families can enjoy the festive atmosphere, look at Christmas decorations and spend time around the seafront attractions.

The programme features an outdoor skating rink, seasonal food stalls, fairground rides and light installations. Some experiences are free, while rides and refreshments may cost extra.

2026 dates: 20 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.

Best for: Mixed-age families, Christmas evenings and children who enjoy colourful displays.

Planning tip: Check the event timetable and skating arrangements before travelling. Christmas Day closures and individual attraction times may apply.

3. See the Blackpool Illuminations During Winter

Location: Blackpool Promenade

Blackpool Illuminations aren't only an autumn attraction. The 2026 display continues through the Christmas holidays.

Families can enjoy colourful lights, illuminated figures and decorative scenes along the famous promenade.

Younger children may enjoy spotting stars, animals and different colours, while older children can take photographs of their favourite displays.

You can walk along a manageable section of the promenade or choose a suitable transport option.

2026–27 dates: 4 September 2026 to 3 January 2027.

Best for: Low-cost family evenings, Christmas photographs and mixed-age outings.

Planning tip: The Illuminations are free to view, but parking, transport and other attractions may cost extra. Dress warmly and supervise children near roads and busy areas.

4. Go Ice Skating at Lancaster On Ice

Location: Dalton Square, Lancaster

Ice skating is a lovely way to enjoy winter with older children and teenagers.

Lancaster On Ice returns to Dalton Square for the festive season, bringing a real ice rink into the city centre.

Families can book a skating session, watch others enjoying the rink or spend time around the festive stalls.

The attraction also advertises seasonal refreshments and a Ferris wheel.

Children who are new to skating may need extra support and should follow the rink's age and supervision requirements.

2026–27 dates: Advertised from 22 November 2026 to 5 January 2027.

Best for: School-age children, teenagers and family winter outings.

Planning tip: Book your preferred skating slot ahead of time. Check skating aids, footwear requirements and any timetable changes before arriving.

5. Watch Jack and the Beanstalk at Blackpool Grand Theatre

Location: Church Street, Blackpool

A Christmas pantomime can be a lovely family tradition, especially during the school holidays.

Blackpool Grand Theatre is staging Jack and the Beanstalk for Christmas 2026.

The production brings the familiar fairy tale to the stage with colourful costumes, comedy, music and audience participation.

Older children may enjoy joining in with the traditional pantomime responses, while younger visitors can watch the characters and scenery.

2026–27 dates: 4 December 2026 to 3 January 2027, with performances on selected dates.

Best for: Primary-school children, theatre-loving families and festive indoor entertainment.

Planning tip: Check performance times, age guidance and seating arrangements before booking. Pantomimes can include loud music and flashing lights.

6. Enjoy Beauty and the Beast at Lowther Pavilion

Location: Lytham St Annes

Lowther Pavilion provides another opportunity to enjoy a festive family theatre trip.

Its 2026 Christmas pantomime is Beauty and the Beast, featuring familiar characters, music, comedy and traditional audience participation.

Children can follow Belle's story and enjoy the colourful costumes and stage effects.

The production is advertised for all ages and has an approximate running time of two hours, including an interval.

2026–27 dates: 30 November 2026 to 3 January 2027.

Best for: Families with school-age children and anyone who enjoys live theatre.

Planning tip: Consider your younger child's attention span before booking a longer performance. Check the theatre's accessibility and show schedule.

7. Follow The Wizard of Oz at King George's Hall

Location: Blackburn

Families looking for another festive stage production can visit King George's Hall in Blackburn.

The venue is hosting The Wizard of Oz as its 2026 Christmas pantomime.

Children can follow Dorothy and her friends as they travel towards the Emerald City, with music, comedy and audience interaction.

This makes a good indoor option when the weather is too cold or wet for outdoor activities.

2026 dates: 11 to 31 December 2026.

Best for: Primary-school children, families and theatre enthusiasts.

Planning tip: A relaxed performance is advertised for 29 December. This may suit families who prefer an adjusted theatre environment, although you should check the arrangements directly before booking.

8. Join The Great Christmas Rescue at Turbary Woods

Location: Whitestake, near Preston

For a more interactive Christmas experience, The Great Christmas Rescue combines outdoor adventure with seasonal storytelling.

Hosted at Turbary House Leisure Park, the event invites children to complete festive missions with an elf guide.

Families work through a series of challenges before reaching the Christmas star finale and visiting Father Christmas.

The event also includes time in the Christmas village, with different ticket packages available.

2026 dates: 4 to 23 December.

Best for: Children who enjoy imaginative games, missions and meeting Father Christmas.

Planning tip: This is a pre-Christmas activity. Families on the standard Lancashire school calendar can visit during the first few holiday days, subject to ticket availability. Choose the package suited to your children's ages.

9. Meet Father Christmas at Barton Grange Garden Centre

Location: Brock, near Preston

Barton Grange Garden Centre offers a festive outing for families who enjoy Christmas decorations and seasonal displays.

The garden centre advertises a Santa's Grotto experience for Christmas 2026.

Children can enjoy a planned visit to Father Christmas, while families can look around the festive displays and seasonal departments.

The garden centre also has places to eat and drink, making it convenient for a shorter family visit.

2026 dates: 14 November to 24 December.

Best for: Younger children, festive photographs and families planning an outing before Christmas Day.

Planning tip: Santa experiences may use timed bookings. Check the current programme, prices and what each ticket includes before travelling.

10. Enjoy Christmas Fun at Billy Bob's Myerscough

Location: Myerscough, near Preston

Billy Bob's combines family play with a 1950s-inspired American diner.

During Christmas 2026, the Myerscough attraction offers festive entertainment alongside its indoor and undercover play areas.

Its Christmas programme includes Santa-themed activities, seasonal trails and a visit to Santa's cabin through its advertised experience.

Children can enjoy playtime, take part in the festive activities and finish with a family meal.

2026 dates: 28 November to 24 December.

Best for: Younger children, family meals and pre-Christmas outings.

Planning tip: Check admission packages and book any Santa experience in advance. The Christmas programme finishes on Christmas Eve, so it won't be available after 24 December.

11. Discover Free Christmas Activities at Affinity Lancashire

Location: Fleetwood

Families looking for affordable festive entertainment can check the Christmas programme at Affinity Lancashire.

The shopping outlet advertises free seasonal activities and character appearances throughout the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Its 2026 programme includes a free Santa's Grotto and selected character visits during December.

A shopping centre visit can be a practical option when you want a short festive activity rather than a full-day attraction.

Children may enjoy taking photographs, meeting seasonal characters and seeing the Christmas decorations.

Best for: Families seeking free seasonal activities and short indoor outings.

Planning tip: Check the exact dates of each character appearance. The free Santa's Grotto is advertised until 24 December, and individual events may have queues or entry arrangements.

12. Enjoy Christmas Crafts and Stories at The Harris

Location: Market Square, Preston

The Harris is a useful choice for families looking for indoor activities that don't require a large budget.

The museum, art gallery and library provide opportunities for children to discover exhibitions, look at interesting objects and spend time with books.

The venue also hosts family events, including storytelling and creative workshops.

For December 2026, a festive workshop called Horace's Merry Chris-Moose! is advertised for 19 December.

Children can enjoy making something seasonal while learning about the museum's collections.

Best for: Creative children, rainy days, younger readers and families seeking free attractions.

Planning tip: General admission is free, but some workshops may require booking or payment. Check Christmas and New Year opening hours before visiting.

13. Watch Winter Wildlife at WWT Martin Mere

Location: Burscough, West Lancashire

Winter is a rewarding time to visit WWT Martin Mere because migrating birds gather at the wetlands.

Families can watch whooper swans, geese and other water birds from the viewing areas.

Children can also learn about migration, bird habitats and the changing seasons.

The wetland centre has nature trails and play areas, giving families opportunities to combine wildlife watching with outdoor activity.

You don't need to be an experienced birdwatcher to enjoy the visit.

Best for: Animal-loving children, winter nature walks and family wildlife outings.

Planning tip: The centre publishes winter opening hours from 24 October 2026 to 28 March 2027. It is closed on Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve has shorter hours. Bring warm layers and waterproof footwear.

14. Enjoy a Winter Nature Adventure at Brockholes Nature Reserve

Location: Samlesbury, near Preston

Brockholes Nature Reserve is a lovely destination for families who enjoy peaceful outdoor activities.

The reserve features woodland, wetlands, wildlife habitats and walking routes.

During winter, children can observe water birds, look for animal tracks and enjoy the changing scenery.

You can turn the visit into a nature-spotting game by asking children to identify different birds, trees or colours.

Christmas 2026 highlight: Brockholes has advertised a Winter Celebration on 19 December, featuring seasonal activities around the floating visitor village.

Best for: Wildlife discovery, low-cost family walks and quieter outdoor outings.

Planning tip: General reserve entry is free, although parking and special activities may cost extra. Supervise children near water and check visitor centre holiday hours.

15. Take a Winter Walk at Worden Park

Location: Leyland

Not every Christmas holiday activity needs a ticket.

Worden Park offers spacious grounds, woodland walks and a large children's playground.

During winter, families can enjoy a short walk, look for birds and discover how the park changes during the colder months.

You could prepare a simple Christmas nature checklist featuring evergreen leaves, birds, tree bark and winter colours.

Children can also enjoy the playground when the weather and ground conditions are suitable.

Best for: Free family activities, short outdoor visits and energetic children.

Planning tip: The park is a year-round attraction rather than a dedicated Christmas event. Some facilities may have seasonal hours, and parking restrictions apply.

For more green spaces around Leyland and Preston, read our guide to parks in Lancashire.

16. Enter a Storybook World at The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse

Location: Blackpool Promenade

The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse is an indoor play attraction inspired by familiar children's stories.

Young visitors can enjoy themed areas based on characters from books by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

These include woodland-inspired play spaces, interactive activities and areas suited to younger children.

Children who enjoy The Gruffalo, Room on the Broom and other popular picture books may find plenty to recognise.

It's a useful choice for families seeking a weatherproof activity during the December school holidays.

Best for: Toddlers, preschoolers and younger primary-school children.

Planning tip: The attraction uses timed admission. Book in advance and check Christmas opening dates. Don't assume any particular festive character event is included unless the venue advertises it.

17. Discover Marine Life at SEA LIFE Blackpool

Location: Blackpool Promenade

SEA LIFE Blackpool offers an indoor activity for children who enjoy discovering underwater creatures.

Families can see different marine habitats, look at colourful fish and learn more about ocean wildlife.

Younger children may enjoy watching the animals move through the water, while older children can read displays and discover interesting facts.

The aquarium provides an alternative to outdoor seasonal attractions when the weather is poor.

Best for: Animal-loving children, rainy days and indoor family outings.

Planning tip: Check the aquarium's Christmas opening hours, ticket arrangements and any age-specific activities before booking. Some experiences may be unavailable during maintenance work.

18. Enjoy Sleeping Beauty at Ribby Hall Village

Location: Wrea Green

Ribby Hall Village offers a festive theatre experience for families visiting the Fylde area.

Its Christmas 2026 programme includes a pantomime production of Sleeping Beauty.

Children can enjoy familiar fairy-tale characters, colourful costumes and the traditional atmosphere of a Christmas show.

For families with younger children, a daytime performance may be easier to manage than a late evening outing.

2026–27 dates: The pantomime is advertised from 15 November 2026 to 2 January 2027.

Best for: Families who enjoy theatrical performances and festive stories.

Planning tip: Confirm the individual show dates, ticket options and age guidance before travelling. The venue's Santa's Grotto is a separate experience that finishes on 24 December.

19. Meet Animals at Blackpool Zoo

Location: East Park Drive, Blackpool

Blackpool Zoo provides a family day out for children who enjoy animals and wildlife.

Families can see different species, learn about animal habitats and visit the zoo's indoor and outdoor areas.

Winter visits offer a different atmosphere from the busy summer months, although some animals may spend more time in sheltered areas during cold weather.

The zoo also advertises the return of its Santa experience for Christmas 2026, with bookings and dates to be checked separately.

Best for: Animal lovers, school-age children and families planning a longer outing.

Planning tip: Confirm winter admission times, animal experience availability and the Christmas event schedule before booking. A standard zoo visit doesn't automatically include a Santa experience.

20. Enjoy Bowling and Indoor Games at The Flower Bowl

Location: Brock, near Preston

For families with older children, The Flower Bowl offers a mixture of indoor entertainment under one roof.

The venue includes ten-pin bowling, crazy golf, a cinema, curling and other activities.

Children can enjoy a friendly bowling game or try a round of crazy golf with their family.

This makes a useful alternative when outdoor Christmas attractions are too cold or busy.

There are also dining facilities on site, so families can combine an activity with a meal.

Best for: School-age children, teenagers and mixed-age family gatherings.

Planning tip: Check the age and participation rules for individual games. Book ahead during school holidays, and confirm any Christmas or New Year changes to opening hours.

Best Indoor Things to Do During the Christmas Holidays in Lancashire

December weather can be cold, windy and wet, so indoor activities are useful when planning family outings.

For more all-weather activities, read our guide to rainy-day activities for kids and families.

Free and Low-Cost Christmas Holiday Activities in Lancashire

Christmas outings can become expensive when you're paying for several children, so it's useful to mix paid attractions with free activities.

Another affordable option is to enjoy one ticketed attraction during the week and fill the other days with local walks, library visits and festive activities at home.

Which Christmas Holiday Activities Suit Different Ages?

Children enjoy different experiences depending on their age, abilities and interests.

These are flexible suggestions. Check individual attractions' height, age and supervision requirements before booking.

How to Plan the Christmas School Holidays in Lancashire

A little preparation can help your family enjoy the festive break without making every day feel busy.

Check Your School's Holiday Dates

Lancashire County Council's 2026–27 calendar shows the autumn term ending on Friday 18 December 2026 and the spring term starting on Monday 4 January 2027.

Some academies and schools may follow different calendars or training days, so check your child's school dates before booking activities.

Separate Pre-Christmas Events from Post-Christmas Outings

Not every Christmas attraction operates throughout the full school holiday.

Santa grottos and festive experiences often finish on 23 or 24 December.

Pantomimes, indoor attractions and winter light displays may continue after Boxing Day or into early January.

Check the specific event dates rather than relying on the venue's general opening hours.

Book Popular Attractions Early

Christmas pantomimes, skating sessions, Santa experiences and indoor play centres may have limited places.

Check the booking calendar before making travel plans, particularly for weekends and the days between Christmas and New Year.

Keep a Rainy-Day Backup

If you're planning an outdoor attraction, choose a second option in case of poor weather.

Indoor soft play, museums, aquariums and bowling are useful alternatives.

You can also find family outing inspiration in our guide to things to do in Lancashire with kids.

Sample Five-Day Christmas Holiday Activity Plan

This is a flexible example, not a confirmed five-day event itinerary. Choose dates according to opening calendars and your children's energy levels.

Christmas Holiday Safety Tips for Families

A few practical precautions can make winter outings more comfortable.

• Dress for the weather: Bring warm layers, waterproof coats and suitable footwear for outdoor activities.
• Watch slippery surfaces: Take care around icy paths, wet steps and outdoor skating areas.
• Follow age restrictions: Check height, age and supervision rules for soft play, rides, skating and laser tag.
• Keep children close in crowds: Agree on a meeting point with older children and supervise younger ones closely.
• Plan for sensory needs: Loud pantomimes, crowded displays and flashing lights may be uncomfortable for some children. Check for relaxed performances or quieter sessions.
• Bring suitable snacks and drinks: Check each venue's food policy and supervise young children while eating.
• Check Christmas closures: Many attractions change their opening hours around Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Enjoy Winter Family Play at Jungle World Park

For families in Leyland, Preston and Blackpool, Jungle World Park offers indoor play during the colder months.

Its Leyland and Blackpool venues provide play areas for babies, toddlers and older children, making it possible to plan an activity without depending on dry weather.

Families can check play sessions, age restrictions and admission arrangements on the official website before visiting.

For more Christmas activities around South Ribble, read our guide to things to do in Leyland with kids over the Christmas holidays.

Families with younger children visiting the coast can also see our toddler activities in Blackpool during December.

Final Thoughts

The Christmas holidays in Lancashire offer plenty of opportunities for family days out, from festive light displays and theatre performances to indoor play, wildlife watching and winter walks.

You don't need to book an expensive attraction every day. Mixing free outdoor activities with a few special experiences can help make the school holidays enjoyable without stretching your budget.

When the weather turns cold or rainy, Jungle World Park in Leyland and Blackpool provides indoor play for children who want to stay active.

Choose activities that suit your family's interests, check the seasonal opening dates and enjoy discovering Lancashire during the Christmas break.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best things to do with kids during the Christmas holidays in Lancashire?

Families can visit Jungle World Park, Blackpool's Christmas By The Sea, Lancaster On Ice, Christmas pantomimes and local wildlife attractions. The right choice depends on your children's ages, budget and the weather. Check individual event dates because some experiences finish before Christmas Day.

2. Where can I take kids in Lancashire when it rains during Christmas?

Jungle World Park in Leyland and Blackpool offers indoor soft play for children aged 0–12. Families can also visit The Harris in Preston, SEA LIFE Blackpool, The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse or The Flower Bowl. Check holiday opening hours and booking requirements beforehand.

3. Are there free Christmas holiday activities for children in Lancashire?

Yes. Blackpool Illuminations, general access to Worden Park and The Harris are among the free options. Christmas By The Sea also offers free village entry, while some attractions cost extra. Local winter walks and suitable library activities can help families enjoy the holidays on a budget.

4. When do the Christmas school holidays start in Lancashire in 2026?

Lancashire County Council's calendar lists Friday 18 December 2026 as the final day of the autumn term. Schools following that calendar return on Monday 4 January 2027. Some academies and other schools may have different dates, so check your child's individual school calendar.

5. Is Jungle World Park suitable for children during the Christmas holidays?

Yes. Jungle World Park has indoor play centres in Leyland and Blackpool for children aged 0–12, with dedicated areas for younger visitors and attractions for older children. Families should check the Christmas booking calendar, session types and any age restrictions before planning their visit.