We’re excited to announce that we’re bringing Christmas back to the town hall this year for our annual Christmas at the Town Hall festive family event. This year’s free event will take place on Saturday 7 December, from 11am to 3pm, where Santa and his little helpers will be waiting to welcome you to our magical town hall.  

Christmas at the Town Hall has become a regular in our events calendar, not to mention Santa’s, with last year’s event attracting over 2,000 visitors. This year’s event promises not to disappoint with a range of festive activities, entertainment, crafts and treats for all the family to enjoy.

One of the hugely anticipated attractions will no doubt be the man in red himself - Father Christmas, who will be arriving at the town hall in his sleigh at 10.55am ready to officially open the event. He will then head straight to his grotto ready to meet the children of Barnsley and hand out gifts to those on his good list.

To make sure Santa brings enough presents, tickets must be pre-booked and don’t forget to include your child’s age to make sure they receive an age-appropriate gift.

Book your ticket to meet Santa

Santa’s grotto is just one of many attractions throughout the day - here’s a festive flavour of the fun and treats in store: 

• Get creative and have fun with a range of Christmas crafts and activities.
• Browse our craft, book and gift stalls.
• Try your luck on our legendary festive tombola - with all money raised going to the Mayor’s Charities.
• Meet some mischievous guests from our local pantomime.
• Join our Family Hubs team for lots of activities and festive fun.
• Enjoy some refreshments whilst enjoying festive music from the Barnsley Singers, who will be performing at 11am and 1pm on the town hall staircase.
• Meet the Mayor of Barnsley, Cllr John Clarke JP, who will be offering children (and adults) the opportunity to dress up as him in the traditional mayoral robe and chains.
• Meet our local councillors and take a seat in the Council Chambers where important decisions are made.  
• Find out about our services and how we can help and support you and your family with a number of our services showcased.

Speaking on behalf of the Organising Working Group, Cllr Sharon Howard, said: “We’re delighted to bring Christmas back to the town hall once again this year. To welcome families of all generations through the door is just wonderful and it has become a Christmas tradition for many families to return year on year.

“We’re also heartened to provide an event that is free for families at what is already an expensive time of year, on top of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis we face. We want everyone to have the opportunity to be a part of Christmas at Barnsley Town Hall and every child who attends to receive a free gift.  

“A lot of time and dedication goes into the preparation of this event, and I’d like to thank everyone for their time, donations and commitment to make the event happen.” 

Christmas at the Town Hall is just one of the Christmas highlights in the town centre this year. We’ll welcome the return of Barnsley Bright Nights, Friday 22 November and Saturday 23 November, kickstarting Christmas festivities with light, art and entertainment. We’re also welcoming the rerun of Barnsley Christmas Market from Thursday 5 December to Sunday 8 December, including over 50 festive stalls.

So before or after you head to the town hall, why not call in at the town centre - a great opportunity to make a day of it and do some Christmas shopping. For more information about what’s happening in the town centre, Visit Barnsley - What's On Next in Barnsley.

Remember: Christmas at the Town Hall is a free event, and everyone is welcome to attend at any time between 11am and 3pm. However, due to the popularity of Father Christmas, to avoid long waiting times, booking will be essential. Children visiting Santa must be under 15 years of age.

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