15 Free & Cheap Festive Things To Do

The team put their heads together to come up with lots of festive fun, and free (or cheap), activities to do in the run up to Christmas. It's an expensive time of year, so we've focussed on activities and ideas to keep you entertained, but without breaking the bank! Just think of it as your festive to-do list for the next few weeks.

1. Watch a Christmas film

A must this time of year! And for the first time, we're showing three family favourites in our Auditorium. We even picked a non-christmassy film to show too, in case that's not your thing. Tickets are just £3, and kids go completely FREE (up to 3 free children per paying adult). All welcome!

Tickets are becoming very limited, so book now to avoid disappointment. We will allow any walk-ups on the day if space allows, of course!

2. Visit a Christmas Market

...of which there have been a LOT of at The Forum over the last month or so - and they're not stopping just yet! We still have a few different markets coming up before the big day, showing off the talent of local makers and getting you in the festive spirit. It's a great opportunity to meet up with a friend and browse together!

3. Read a Christmas book

Head to the Norfolk & Norwich Millennium Library and pick out some cosy reads for the winter break!

4. Ride the Carousel

The stunning traditional Christmas Carousel or "Pride of the South" Gallopers will be back in time for the Christmas holidays. Treat yourself to a magical ride for just £3 a go. The presence of the famous carousel makes for cheerful views, if you just want to watch and admire for while.

5. Come and see The Forum Christmas Tree

And don't forget to snap a festive photo while you're here! We think it’s the largest public tree in the city.

6. Watch a performance, sing a song

We've teamed up with The Norfolk & Suffolk Music Hub to bring you some free musical performances from local schools, community groups and artists showcasing the local talent and community spirit - enjoy!

7. Have a hot choccie

There's nothing like warming up with a nice warm mug of hot chocolate! Take a break from the fast pace of the city in Cafe Bar Marzano.

8. Donate a toy

Support your local Christmas Present Appeal (Salvation Army) by heading to Cards for Good Causes in The Forum Gallery and donate a new, unwrapped toy or gift for children who might not otherwise receive a Christmas present. The gifts will then be wrapped and distributed to those in need.

9. Post a letter to Father Christmas

Did you know there's a special post box within the Norfolk & Norwich Millennium Library where you can post your wish list to the big man? Find a table, write your letter, and post!

10.  Pick up a Christmas sticker

We have stickers available at Customer Services (and sometimes we're wondering around the building with them too). You don't have to do anything special to receive a Forum Christmas sticker, just say hello!

11.  Enjoy the Christmas lights in Norwich

Take a stroll and have a wander around the city to admire the festive lights and shop window displays Norwich has to offer - including us, of course!

12.  Plan your Norwich Science Festival 2025 experience

Did you hear that the full programme for NSF25 is out, and you can get your tickets to an epic line-up of shows, workshops, experiences and more, now!? You can pick up a brochure from The Forum and start browsing the huge programme of events and plan for February half term week 2025.

13.  Santa’s Grotto for Dogs

Love dogs? Love Christmas? You'll LOVE this. Bring your four-pawed friends to meet Santa Woof Woof in his grotto and pose for a 'pawtrait' - all for free but with opportunities to donate to RSPCA Norwich and Pets As Therapy.

14.  Create your own Festive Character with the Wayward Adventurers Guild

No matter your age or artistic ability, this workshop with The Wayward Adventurers Guild is a great way to spend time together or to form new connections, whilst developing and nurturing creative skills. It's completely free and open to any age.

15.  Write your Christmas cards

And if you still need some, head to Cards for Good Causes in The Gallery!