Residents and visitors of all ages are being invited to enjoy the magic of a Victorian Christmas at the Museums Quarter on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November, 11am-4pm.
Hosted by Hull Museums, visitors will be able to experience the warmth and wonder of Christmas – a celebration steeped in history, charm and cheer. Wander through beautifully decorated galleries and meet the characters who shaped Christmas as we know it today.
There’ll be the chance to enjoy live performances and interactive fun as visitors help Mrs Butterworth tame the Naughty Christmas Tree in a playful hide-and-seek adventure. Meet Chief Elves Sock and Tinker to discover the gifts Victorian children received and keep a look out for the cheeky roaming Brussel Sprouts for laughs and surprises. Visitors will also be able to ride on a traditional fairground carousel.
Live music will fill the air with performances by the Eclectic Music saxophonists playing festive classics on the Saturday. The Barton Community Brass Band will perform on the Sunday, with the Hull Visual Choir bringing songs to life with British Sign Language and artistic flair across the full weekend.
Alongside live music, children’s imaginations will be sparked as they’re invited to join Eden from Stories Alive and help him bring a Victorian Pantomime to life! Older visitors will also be able to enjoy a dramatic performance by the Northern Academy of Performing Arts as they bring A Christmas Ghost Story to the Museums Quarter.
A selection of delicious festive hot and cold food and drink will be on offer throughout the weekend and visitors will also have the chance to do some Christmas shopping. Gift shops at the Hull and East Riding Museum and Streetlife Museum will also be open as usual and stocked full of gift ideas from toys, books to beautiful trinkets and much more.
Cllr Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure, said: “Victorian Christmas is a staple in Hull’s festive calendar and always attracts huge crowds.
“This year’s offer sounds absolutely fantastic, with something for all ages.
“The Hull Museums team would love to see visitors dressed in their festive best – or even Victorian attire – ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!”
In addition to the Victorian Christmas weekend, children will also have the opportunity to meet Father Christmas at the Streetlife Museum. Families will enjoy festive storytelling and activities with Mrs Claus and write a letter to Father Christmas before meeting the man himself and receiving a gift to take away. Tickets to meet Father Christmas are £10 per child with accompanying adults free. Places are limited and can be booked at www.HullMuseums.co.uk.
All other event activities are free, apart from the carousel ride which will be £3 per person.
Find out more at www.HullMuseums.co.uk.
