Christmas events at London’s Barbican Hall
Get ready to jingle all the way into the most magical season of the year, from singing along with West End stars, to experiencing the cinematic magic of John Williams and more. Gather your loved ones, wrap up warm, and step into the wonder of these Barbican Hall live performances, for Christmas memories to last a lifetime.
The Barbican Hall, London
Saturday 20 December
This festive celebration for the whole family is led by the inimitable Jonathan Cohen and features West End star Louise Dearman. Packed with festive favourites and all the carols you love to sing, bring the family and bask in the magic of live music at Christmas. Enjoy toe-tapping renditions of Winter Wonderland, Merry Christmas Everybody and Frosty the Snowman, as well as O Come, All Ye Faithful, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, O Little Town of Bethlehem, and The Twelve Days of Christmas.
CHRISTMAS WITH KING’S COLLEGE CHOIR
The Barbican Hall, London
Sunday 21 December
The world-renowned King’s College Choir, Cambridge, returns to Barbican Hall, bringing their signature purity and power to a programme of beloved carols and festive classics. Joined by the City of London Choir, under the direction of Daniel Hyde, whether you’re continuing a cherished tradition or discovering this experience for the first time, this is Christmas at its most majestic. Celebrate the season with one of the greatest choirs in the world. Book early: this concert sells out quickly.
The Barbican Hall, London
Monday 22 December
Step into the gentle glow of candlelight and experience Candlelit Carols, a heartwarming evening of music blending uplifting carols and cherished seasonal classics in a beautifully staged setting. Let the soaring soprano of Harriet Eyley, the elegance of the Mozart Festival Orchestra and Coro Spezzato, and the refined direction of Steven Devine transport you through a festive programme featuring Cullen’s Joy to the World, Handel’s Christmas Sequence from Messiah including the iconic Hallelujah Chorus, and more.
THE BEST OF JOHN WILLIAMS
The Barbican Hall, London
Sunday 28 December
Experience the magic of the movies with The Best of John Williams, joining the London Concert Orchestra as they bring to life the unforgettable scores of one of cinema’s greatest composers. From soaring adventure themes to sweeping emotional moments, this evening of orchestral brilliance takes you on a journey through the legendary soundtracks of John Williams, including Harry Potter, E.T., Star Wars, The Fabelmans, Jurassic Park, The Witches of Eastwick and Indiana Jones.
BEETHOVEN’S NINTH
The Barbican Hall, London
Monday 29 December
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Christopher Warren-Green, brings to life an all-Beethoven programme featuring two of the composer’s towering masterpieces. The evening begins with the bold and majestic Piano Concerto No. 5 ‘Emperor’, a work of heroic spirit and lyrical elegance. It culminates in the monumental Symphony No. 9 ‘Choral’, building to the electrifying Ode to Joy – a triumphant anthem of unity, hope, and humanity.
NEW YEAR’S DAY PROMS
The Barbican Hall, London
Thursday 1 January
Ring in 2026 in style with the New Year’s Day Proms with a vibrant celebration of classical favourites, uplifting anthems, and cherished operatic gems. Experience an afternoon of music with the London Concert Orchestra, conducted by Anthony Inglis, as they bring to life stirring pieces that capture the spirit of the season. Let the melodies set the perfect tone for the year ahead, featuring all your New Year’s Day favourites.
