The annual Raymond Gubbay Christmas Festival returns to the Barbican London in December, with a spectacular line-up of festive events with something for everyone.
Whether someone enjoys Christmas movies, classic Christmas carols, festive hits or rousing choirs, this event promises to be the perfect addition to their holiday calendar.
From legendary film composers such as Hans Zimmer and John Williams, to intimate candlelit concerts, lively sing-alongs and the long-awaited Grand Christmas Party – this celebration promises to enchant and entertain.
The month-long festivities will also include the likes of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Glenn Miller Orchestra as well.
For further information on the full range including dates and times, keep scrolling.
A dazzling festive line-up
The Christmas Festival will have something for music lovers of all tastes, from an epic orchestral set to iconic music we all know and love.
The schedule of events is as follows:
- A Gospel Christmas – Saturday, December 7 at 19.30: Everyone can get into the Christmas spirit with Flames Collective, an electrifying gospel choir who have wowed audiences with performances at the 2024 Brit Awards and the O2.
- Christmas with King’s College Choir – Friday 20 December at 19.30: Audience members can Join the Choir of King’s College, Cambridge and the Crouch End Festival Chorus for a delightful evening of carols and festive classics. The event is sure to be a family favorite.
- Carols by candlelight – Saturday 21 December at 2:30 p.m.: Families and friends can immerse themselves in a stunning candlelit setting for a concert of carols and seasonal music.
- Christmas Carol Singalong – Sunday, December 22 at 14.30 and 17.15: Everyone can join in the fun with a festive sing-a-long of carols and Christmas classics in a different candlelit setting.
- The big Christmas party – Monday 23 December at 19.30: The Big Christmas Party will boast a mix of festive pop hits and traditional favourites, with a dazzling live ensemble band, four headline singers TBA and incredible live music.
- Glenn Miller Orchestra – Friday, December 27 at 2:30 p.m.: Audience members can step back in time with one of the UK’s most celebrated big bands, the Glenn Miller Orchestra, during this magical event. They will be able to enjoy wartime hits and 1940s classics. John James will join Mark Porter and Ray McVay with a tribute to the Kings of Swing, plus Sing Time Jivers and The London Belles.
- The Best of John Williams – Friday, December 27 at 19.30: Visitors can experience legendary composer John Williams’ iconic score with an impressive concert featuring music from Harry Potter, Star Wars, Jurassic Park and more.
- Beethoven’s Ninth – Saturday 28 December at 19.30: Music lovers will have the chance to join the much-loved Royal Philharmonic Orchestra for a thrilling performance of Beethoven’s monumental choral symphony, crowned by the incredible Ode to Joy’.
- The Four Seasons by Candlelight – Sunday, December 29 at 2:30 p.m.: The lust and virtuosity of the 18th century is brought to life in this enchanting concert, staged in a candlelit setting with an evocative program. The highlight of the show will be Vivaldi’s sublime masterpiece.
- Music of the Movies: The Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones and Beyond – Sunday, December 29 at 19.30: Audiences can immerse themselves in the realms of fantasy during this incredible event, as a full symphony orchestra performs music from The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Game of Thrones and more.
- The Holiday with Live Orchestra – Monday, December 30 at 19.30: Christmas lovers will be able to experience the heartwarming holiday film The Holiday like never before, with its score performed live by a full concert orchestra alongside the film.
- The Music of Zimmer vs. Williams – Tuesday, December 31 at 19.30: It’s the ultimate film music showdown as the London Concert Orchestra presents popular music from two of the greatest film composers of all time, Hans Zimmer and John Williams.
- New Year’s Ball – Wednesday 1 January at 3 p.m.: Audiences can ring in the New Year with a rousing celebration of classic favorites during this fantastic show, which will include a free drink for visitors.
Please note that alcohol is only available to people over the age of 18. The Barbican Hall follows the ‘challenge 25 policy’ so you may be asked to provide identification. Please drink responsibly. Do not drink if you are pregnant.
