With less than two months until Christmas day, now is the perfect time to start planning what festive shows to watch this year. 

Many shows already have their box offices open ready for tickets to be snatched up, and with many forced to shut last year, seats are going quickly. 

Some of London's most well-known pantomimes and Christmas shows will be returning for everyone to enjoy, but there are some new exciting shows not to be missed out on. 

To make sure you don't miss out on any of the sure-to-be hit shows, we've compiled a list of the top five across London. 

 

Pantoland at the Palladium

When: 4 December to 9 January 

Where: London Palladium

Every year, the Palladium puts on their ever-popular pantomime with big stars always topping the cast bill. 

This year doesn't disappoint with iconic entertainers Donny Osmond, Julian Clary, and Nigel Havers leading the cast

Across its five-week run, the show will get everyone into the Christmas spirit and is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. 

Tickets for the show start at £30.

The Nutcracker

When: 18 December to 8 January 

Where: London Coliseum

The English National Ballet returns to London to spread the Christmas cheer for all the family to enjoy. 

Based on the classic book, The Nutcracker always brings a crowd to watch its beautiful story play out.  

The show featuring over 100 dancers has been coming to London for over 50 years and shows no signs of stopping.

Tickets for the show starts at £18.00

 

The Snowman

When:20 November to 2 January

Where: Peacock Theatre

Raymond Briggs' iconic festive adventure comes back to the Peacock Theatre this year for all families to enjoy. 

Including the well-known Christmas song 'Walking in the Air' made famous by Aled Jones, the story follows a young boy and a snowman as they go on an adventure. 

Tickets for the show start at £20.

 

Aladdin

When:2 December to 2 January 

Where: Lyric Hammersmith

The Lyric's Pantomime this year will tell the popular children's story 'Aladdin'. 

Writing for the stage by comedian Vikki Stone, the performance will feature music and tones of laughs. With a hint of a few changes from the original story.

Perfect for the whole family, this Christmas pantomime will make you laugh and dance all day long. 

Tickets start at £18.00

Dick Whittington

When: Every Sunday of December

Where: Phoenix Theatre

This adult aimed Christmas show is produced by the TuckShop and is an all drag queen show. 

The show follows Dick on his journey to fame and fortune through the streets of Soho with their sassy cat companion. 

The reimagined show will feature famous UK drag queen stars including Cherly Hole, Choriza May, and Tia Kofi. 

Tickets for the show start at £30.00