Discover the magic of winter with our festive events!
This winter, join us for a season of frosted roundhouses, crackling fires, family adventures and ancient celebrations. Step through time and explore our buildings brought to life with the magic of the season. Meet the majestic Deer Queen and Holly King, sit by the fire for festive storytelling, discover ancient winter folklore, join us for a special Winter Harp Concert, and craft your own gifts and decorations in our workshops!
And, for the first time ever, Father Christmas is coming to Butser!
Meet Father Christmas in a truly magical setting and discover a Christmas experience unlike any other. Tucked among our ancient buildings, his winter grotto will bring a little festive magic to Butser, with stories, surprises and plenty of Christmas cheer for the whole family.
Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Yule, or anything else this winter, come and enjoy some fun festive events at Butser.
Father Christmas’ Green Grotto
5th-6th and 12th-13th of December
Step into Father Christmas’ Green Grotto, a magical festive experience set inside our cosy roundhouse. Meet Father Christmas in a unique setting inspired by ancient midwinter traditions, where storytelling and seasonal wonder come together. Discover the fascinating origins of the green-cloaked winter figure who symbolised hope and the return of spring, while enjoying a warm, immersive Christmas celebration for the whole family.
Wintry Tales by the Fire
Seasonal storytelling, with something for everyone!
Cosy up in our roundhouse for an afternoon or evening of storytelling and performance. Join us for our family-friendly performance of Tales of Winter Magic, or settle in for an atmospheric evening of haunting seasonal stories with award-winning storyteller Jason Buck.
A Magical Family Adventure
19-21st of December.
A perfect family day out, packed with festive fun!
The Deer Queen and Holly King bring their magic back to Butser on a family adventure to discover the folklore of winter. Can you get festive messages from the Saxon Lady of Yule and the Roman Gods of Saturnalia back to them in time?
Enjoy creative make-and-take activities in our cosy roundhouses, gather around the fire for festive storytelling and explore our ancient buildings brought to life by the magic of the season. Running weekends in December!
A Winter Harp Concert
3rd December
Join us for an unforgettable evening of hauntingly beautiful music as winter descends upon the ancient grounds of Butser Ancient Farm.
Award-winning harpist Keziah Thomas returns with a spellbinding solo pedal harp concert celebrating the magic and mystery of Advent and Christmas through the ages
Late Night Christmas Shopping
Enjoy a magical evening of late-night Christmas shopping at Butser Ancient Farm. Browse a wonderful selection of unique gifts from local makers and artisan traders, soak up the festive atmosphere, and enjoy seasonal treats as our ancient buildings are beautifully lit for the occasion. It’s the perfect way to find special Christmas gifts and celebrate the season.
Handmade Gifts & Decorations
Escape the hubbub of Christmas shopping, and give something unique!
Learn a new skill and make your own gifts and decorations in our festive crafts workshops. Need a digital gift? From vouchers and annual passes to exclusive history documentaries, we’ve got options for everyone!
