What’s on in Aberdeen City & Shire for Kids and Families
Looking for something to do over the next week with the kids in Aberdeen City & Shire, then why not check out one of these family friendly events?
** Mummy Mimi provides this page for information only and cannot guarantee accuracy. Events are subject to change and/or cancellation. If any doubt, please contact the event organisers for confirmation**
Aberdeen Christmas Village
Organiser: Aberdeen City Council – City Events
Where: Aberdeen City Centre
Date: Friday 17th November to Sunday 31st December 2017
Description: In partnership with Aberdeen City Council and delivered by John Codona’s Pleasure Fairs, Aberdeen Inspired are thrilled to bring the Aberdeen Christmas Village to Aberdeen’s brand new civic space. There will be something for ALL the family including a spectacular ice rink and a wonderful festive fairground! Official opening time is yet to be confirmed,
*OPEN AIR ICE RINK*
Monday – Friday: 12pm – 10pm
(school holidays 11am – 10pm)
Saturday – Sunday: 10am – 10pm
A relaxed skating session will be held on Friday 29 December at 10am – 11am. Low music and no strobes aim to make this hour as inclusive as possibe.
*FESTIVE FAIRGROUND RIDES*
Monday – Friday: 12pm – 10pm
(school holidays 11am – 10pm)
Saturday – Sunday: 10am – 10pm
*REFRESHMENTS*
Monday – Friday: 12pm – 10pm
(school holidays 11am – 10pm)
Saturday – Sunday: 10am – 10pm
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/152216245521618
Little Explorer Days: Frosty Fun
Organiser: Aberdeen Science Centre
Where: Aberdeen Science Centre, 179 Constitution Street, Aberdeen AB24 5TU
Date: Tuesday 12th – Saturday 16th December 2017
Time: 10:00 – 17:00
Description: Come along to our Frosty Fun Little Explorer Day for some really COOL fun! Explore how water freezes and what makes ice melt in our Ice Investigation Workshop, build a mini ‘snowman’ and ‘melt’ it into a fizzy puddle, play ‘Snowman Slam,’ search for winter themed objects in a winter wonderland sensory bin and more!
Recommended for children aged 3-5.
These Little Explorer Days are open to public and groups.
Each Little Explorer Day workshop lasts approximately 30 minutes and is supported by related activity tables on the Exhibition Floor.
These days are open to both the public and groups however if you are wishing to attend with a group then we would recommend you book in advance. Please contact a member of the STEM Learning Team on 01224 640 340 for more details
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/826556527526853
December Bridge of Don Drop In Session
Organiser: Close and Calm
Where: St. Columba’s Church, Braehead Way, Aberdeen AB22 8RR
Date: Friday 15th December 2017
Time: 09:30 – 10:45
Description: There will be trained baby carrying advice from Jess Hippey, owner of Close and Calm, and a sling library with a large selection of rentals available. Should you wish to go on to buy a carrier after this, please inform Jess as discount codes are available for customers.
We will charge a £2 entry fee to cover room hire, insurance and professional fees but will serve you tea, coffee and yummy cakes in exchange. Children , partners and family are welcome, and there is an unsupervised creche area available.
We’re very lucky to also have a breastfeeding peer supporter Lynn Miller present at most meetings, as we recognise advice and support for this is often needed too 🙂
We’re a friendly, welcoming bunch and look forward to meeting you. Our hope is to try and build an informative and supportive community so the more the merrier.
More info available here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1519071431734745
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/293945967732943
Santa’s Great Big Party!
Organiser: Wynford Farm Park
Where: Wynford Farm Park, Wynford Farm, Aberdeen AB15 8RQ
Date: Friday 15th – Saturday 16th December 2017
Time: 17:30 – 19:30
Description: Join SANTA’S GREAT BIG PARTY where the man Himself will be hosting an evening of fun, dancing, food and CHRISTMAS CHEER!!!
Booking required so choose your evening and follow our link to get your Tickets for the event of the Festive Season!
TICKETS – £12.50/Child
Dress to impress and put on your dancing shoes because our parties are legendary – and this time SANTA is taking part in all the fun! Ever been on the Big Slide with the man in charge of Christmas? NOW’S YOUR CHANCE!
Children will get a bag of sweets and balloon from Santa as they leave – so if you’re leaving early let us know and we’ll get you yours!
Doors will open at 1720.
Adult hot food Menu will be available for purchase during the evening.
Children will eat in groups based on time of arrival.
Loud music and flashing lights will be part of the event.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1048768201929466
Santa’s Grotto
Organiser: Bon Accord Aberdeen
Where: Bon Accord Aberdeen, George St, Aberdeen AB25 1HZ
Date: Daily until Sunday 24th December 2017
Time: Various opening times, see link below.
Description: Meet Santa in his magical winter wonderland. Enjoy an unforgettable experience for all the family and make sure you’re not on the naughty list with all proceeds going to CLAN Cancer support.
For more info on opening times check the link http://www.bonaccordaberdeen.com/whats-on-in-aberdeen/564-santa-s-grotto
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/781595452049739
Fairy Wood open at weekends (weather permitting)
Organiser: VSA Easter Anguston Farm
Where: Easter Anguston Farm, Peterculter, Aberdeen
Date: Saturday 16th, Sunday 17th, Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th December 2017
Time: 10:30 – 15:30
Description: Fairy wood open 10.30 am – 3.30pm weather permitting
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/130019481050155
Santa’s Grotto Bundle Offer
Organiser: Wynford Farm Park
Where: Wynford Farm Park, Wynford Farm, Aberdeen, AB15 8RQ
Date: Friday 15th to Sunday 17th December 2017
Time: 10:00 – 16:00
Description: Meet Santa in his Wynford Wonderland Grotto!
Includes your Santa Experience, Choose your own Toy, Christmas Crafts with our Elves, and Child’s Dual Admission to all of our Indoor & Outdoor FUN!
Arrive and present yourself to our Cafe team for our Elves to bring you to his Grotto for 15 minutes of crafts and fun before meeting the man himself!
Here at Wynford, we like NO QUEUES CHRISTMAS so that you can ENJOY the festive season with no stress! Arrive on time for your session and we handle all the rest!
TICKETS – £13.50/Child
By appointment only, booking required. Follow the link and buy your tickets now!
A minimum of one Adult is required to supervise up to 5 children. Adult Admission cost can be added during the booking process, or paid on the day.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1681457525258039
Santa at the farm – Bring your letters or just come and meet him
Organiser: VSA Easter Anguston Farm
Where: Easter Anguston Farm, Peterculter, Aberdeen
Date: Sunday 17th December 2017 14:00
Time: 11:00 – 14:00
Description: Children bring your letters for Santa and he will have his post bag ready to take them to the North pole or just come and meet him and tell him what you hope the elves are making
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/171189370134489
Hoodles Christmas Cracker
Organiser: Love Rara
Where: Hoodles Playbarn, North mains of Barra, Oldmeldrum, Aberdeenshire AB51 0BB
Date: Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th December 2017
Time: 09:00 – 16:00
Description: Come along and join in the fun at this years Hoodles Christmas Cracker event. Here’s what’s on throughout the weekend….
Saturday:
Lova Rara will be running Princess and Superhero workshops as well as walk about sessions where your little ones can get their picture taken with Frozen Queen, Beauty, Batman and American Captain.
Princess workshops (10.30-11.30 and 2-3) | Superhero workshops (12.15-1.15 and 3.45-4.45)
Booking essential by phoning Hoodles on 01651 873813, £8 per child, payable on booking (non-refundable)
Sunday:
Gary Seagreeves will be making a return with his magic shows and walkabout magic sessions. (No booking required)
10:30-11:30 Walkabout / 12:00-12:45 Show / 1:00-2:00 Walkabout / 2:30-3:15 Show / 3:30-4:00 Walkabout
Kidgloves Puppet Company will be performing puppet shows throughout the day. (No booking required) Show times 10am, 11.30am, 2pm and 3.15pm
All weekend:
Visit Santa in his grotto (No booking required)
Santa’s reindeer 11am – 3pm each day (No booking required)
Face painting in the Playbarn (No booking required)
Prices:
Special entrance fee: 2 years & over – Play and Santa £13 | 1 – 2 years – Play and Santa £10 |Visit to Santa only – £6
If not visiting Santa: 2 years & over – £8 | 1-2 years – £5 | Under 1’s – Free
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/144543559634748
December Market – Third Weekend
Organiser: Belmont St Market Aberdeen
Where: Belmont St Market Aberdeen, Belmont Street, Aberdeen, AB10 1JH
Date: Saturday 16th December 2017
Time: 2017 09:00 – 15:00
Description: Belmont St Local Market
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/138291603477944
Santa And His Reindeer At The White Horse Inn
Organiser: White Horse Hotel & Restaurant
Where: White Horse Hotel & Restaurant, Old Road, Balmedie, Aberdeenshire AB23 8XR
Date: Saturday 16th December
Time: 10:00 – 14:00
Description: Come visit santa and his reindeer at the whitehorse inn.
There will also be a craft fayre to pick up any last minute gifts.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1572064342851221
Coastal Play Christmas Special
Organiser: Bettridge Centre
Where: Bettridge Centre, Greystone Pl, Newtonhill, Aberdeenshire AB39 3UL
Date: Saturday 16th December 2017
Time: 10:00 – 12:30
Description: Join us for a fantastic Coastal Play Christmas Special!
£7 per child for 2.5 hours play, including gift from Santa. Must be booked and paid for in advance.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/169455376985145
Santa Specials – Saturday 16th December
Organiser: Milton of Crathes Station
Where: Milton of Crathes Station, The Royal Deeside Railway, Milton of Crathes, Banchory, Aberdeenshire AB31 5QH
Date: Saturday 16th December 2017
Time: 10:30 – 15:30
Description: Santa will be at the Milton of Crathes again this year with a sack full of presents for the children, and hot mince pies and drinks for the adults.
He will again be handing out presents to the children in the coaches during the steam train ride from the Milton station.
Christmas singing on all services, which this year will be steam hauled.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/305542683246526
Breakfast with Santa
Organiser: Culter Village Hall
Where: Culter Village Hall, 178 North Deeside Road, Peterculter, Aberdeen AB14 0UD
Date: Saturday 16th December 2017
Time: 10:30 – 12:30
Description: Come for a special breakfast at the Hall with festive activities and a visit from Santa who will have a gift for every child. tickets £7.50 for Children. Adults will be able to purchase refreshments on the day.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/125323984888077
Santa Claus the Movie in the Gallery
Organiser: Fyvie Castle
Where: Fyvie Castle, Turriff, Ellon AB53 8JS
Date: Saturday 16th December 2017
Time: 15:30 – 17:30
Description: In ancient times, a man named Claus, who delivers toys in his small village, fulfills his destiny to become Santa Claus after meeting an expert toy-making elf, Patch in the North Pole.
In the present day, Santa Claus has become overwhelmed by his workload, and the disgruntled Patch flees the workshop to New York City. There, Patch unknowingly threatens the fate of Christmas by taking a job at a failing toy company run by a scheming businessman.
You know it isn’t Christmas until you have seen “Santa Claus the Movie” so come along to the music gallery in Fyvie Castle and enjoy a treat for all the family.
Tickets – Adults £8 | Children £6
Doors open at 15.30. Movie starts at 16.00.
Refreshments available
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/150226919042231
Santa Specials
Organiser: Milton of Crathes Station
Where: Milton of Crathes Station, The Royal Deeside Railway, Milton of Crathes, Banchory, Aberdeenshire AB31 5QH
Date: Sunday 17th December 2017
Time: 10:30 – 15:30
Description: Santa will be at the Milton of Crathes again this year with a sack full of presents for the children, and hot mince pies and drinks for the adults.
He will again be handing out presents to the children in the coaches during the steam train ride from the Milton station.
Christmas singing on all services, which this year will be steam hauled.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/115173975834915
Elf Christmas Door Workshop
Organiser: Geek Bothy
Where: Geek Bothy, Unit 3 Transition Extreme, Links Road, Aberdeen, AB24 5NN
Date: Sunday 17th December 2017
Time: 11:00 – 13:30
Description: WORKSHOP – Elf Christmas Door
AGE – Suitable for adults, and children over 6 years (Under 10’s must be accompanied by an adult however you do not need to pay for a space unless you would like to make your own one)
FREE PARKING IN CAR PARK
COST – £17 per person
This 2 ½ hour workshop held in Geek Bothy shop will show you how to texture clay and shape it into an elf Christmas door with snow, candy canes and sweets
Included: All tools, materials, tuition and a small snack.
Please note that workshops are non refundable and dates can not be swapped, you are welcome to give your place to someone else, it doesn’t have to be the named person that booked the workshop attending. If the workshop is cancelled by the maker and/or Geek Bothy a full refund will be issued.
BOOK online – http://www.geekbothy.co.uk/product/elf-christmas-door-workshop or pop in and see us in the shop.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/136970770256483
Have you entered our competition over on Facebook yet? Why not check it out and you could be in with a chance of winning £75 of Argos vouchers!
Lunch with Santa
Organiser: Pittodrie Events
Where: Pittodrie Stadium, Pittodrie St, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire AB24 5QH
Date: Sunday 17th December 2017
Time: 12:00 – 14:00
Description: Join Santa at Pittodrie Stadium for a children’s festive fun day from 12pm – 2pm in our Richard Donald Stand.
£15 per child which includes:
Kiddies lunch box containing a filled sandwich roll, crisps, juice carton and fruit
Meet Santa and receive a toy gift
Children’s Christmas disco
Party games
Photos with Angus the Bull
To book please contact a member of the Pittodrie Events sales team on:
E: salesaberdeen@sodexo.com T. 01224 650445
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/499122410450342
Christmas Carols in the Courtyard
Organiser: Haddo House & Country Park
Where: Haddo House & Country Park, Ellon, Aberdeenshire AB41 7EQ
Date: Sunday 17th December 2017
Time: 14:00 – 16:00
Description: An afternoon of carols in the Haddo courtyard. Come and enjoy alcohol free mulled wine, mince pies and seasonal cheer. Sing along to all your favourite Christmas carols – wrap up warm!
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1706259332777362
Christmas Carol Singing
Organiser: Albury Sports Centre
Where: Albury Sports Centre, Albury Road, Aberdeen AB11 6TP
Date: Sunday 17th December 2017
Time: 17:00 – 18:00
Description: Free entry annual Christmas Carol singing event. All are welcome and there will be mulled wine and snacks.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/159777761302301
Christmas Party
Organiser: Inchgarth Community Centre
Where: Inchgarth Community Centre, Aboyne Place, Aberdeen AB10 7DR
Date: Monday 18th December 2017
Time: 17:00 – 19:00
Description: Inchgarth is hosting it’s fabulous FREE annual Christmas party for all ages which will see us entertained by the excellent Quirky discos, super-heroes, face painters, glitter tattooist, balloon moderlling, cake, snacks, juic, tea/coffee, community stalls.
This event is for families, children, the disabled, elderly- for everyone of every age to mingle together and have a right good community christmas party.
THERE IS NO NEED TO BOOK – SIMPLY TURN UP.
Children MUST be supervised by their parents or legal guardian at all times during the party.
It’s going to be fantastic, it’s free, fun and not to be missed!!
MONDAY 18TH DECEMBER 5PM AT INCHGARTH CC
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/184789655415429
NCT Bump Club December
Organiser: NCT Aberdeen City & Shire
Where: Cults Kirk Centre
Date: Tuesday 19th December 2017
Time: 19:00 – 21:15
Description: If you’re expecting a baby, then you need to join us in our pregnancy support group – Bump Club!
NCT Aberdeen Bump Club
Our monthly meetings are for both mums and dads to be to come along, meet other expectant parents and prepare for the birth of your baby.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/524797257881100
Santa’s Grotto at Crathes Castle
Organiser: Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate
Where: Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate, Banchory, Aberdeenshire AB31 5
Date: Thursday 21st – Saturday 23rd December 2017
Time: 10:00 – 16:00
Description: A visit to Father Christmas adds that little bit of magic to the festive period. The jolly man himself will be visiting Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate this year with his helpful elves.
Visit our 16th Century tower house with your little ones and meet the man himself in the cosy Great Hall. Santa will be sure to reward those who have stayed off the naughty list!
Tickets are limited – book your dedicated time slot today!
Tickets – £6 per child
Fancy something extra special? Have a look at our Santa in the Castle experience on Christmas Eve!
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/826000874245449
Santa Specials
Organiser: Milton of Crathes Station
Where: Milton of Crathes Station, The Royal Deeside Railway, Milton of Crathes, Banchory, Aberdeenshire AB31 5QH
Date: Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th December 2017
Time: 10:30 – 15:30
Description: Santa will be at the Milton of Crathes again this year with a sack full of presents for the children, and hot mince pies and drinks for the adults.
He will again be handing out presents to the children in the coaches during the steam train ride from the Milton station.
Christmas singing on all services, which this year will be steam hauled.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/112495226159203
& https://www.facebook.com/events/744484579070801 & https://www.facebook.com/events/744484579070801
Messy Play Hatton – Messy Christmas
Organiser: Mess Around North Aberdeenshire
Where: Hatton Public Hall, Station Rd, Hatton, Peterhead, Aberdeenshire AB42 OHZ
Date: Friday 22nd December 2017
Time: 13:30 – 14:30
Description: Jingle Mess, jingle Mess, jingle all the way!
Don on your Christmas jumpers and come join the best festive party of the season! Mums, dads, boys and girls, whether you e been naughty or nice this year, everyone can have a jolly messy time with Messy Christmas!
Little ones can Mess Around in fun activities such as reindeer dust, brussel sprout rolling and candy cane rice, or get messy with our festive treats such as angel foam, Santa goo and Christmas pud!
All you have to do is come along, Mess Around and leave the cleaning up to us!!
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/387773831636884
Kids Christmas Disco
Organiser: Culter Village Hall
Where: Culter Village Hall, 178 North Deeside Road, Peterculter, Aberdeen AB14 0UD
Date: Friday 22nd December 2017
Time: 19:00 – 20:30
Description: Celebrate the end of term at our Christmas Disco. Entry £2
Tuck shop will be available.
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/538920176459818
December market – last chance for Christmas shopping!
Organiser: Belmont St Market Aberdeen
Where: Belmont St Market Aberdeen, Belmont Street, Aberdeen, AB10 1JH
Date: Saturday 23rd December 2017
Time: 09:00 – 15:00
Description: December market – last chance for Christmas shopping!
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1615700615144836
Christmas Party
Organiser: Aberdeen Science Centre
Where: Aberdeen Science Centre, 179 Constitution Street, Aberdeen, AB24 5TU
Date: Saturday 23rd December 2017
Time: 14:00 – 16:00
Description: Add a little fizzy and festive fun into the season with Aberdeen Science Centre’s Christmas Party! Come along to join in with our Christmas-themed science activities. Our Christmas elves have prepared presents and wintry snacks so come along and enjoy the fun! We even expect the visit of a surprise guest (ho, ho, ho! ). Suitable for ages 4 – 10.
Cost: £13.50 (Includes 2 Adults with the Child)
Pre-booking is required.
For Enquiries E-Mail: STEM@asc.scot
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/163647644226545