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The Best Dog Friendly Christmas Events Happening in 2025
We know there’s lots to think about once December rolls around. There are all the presents, the food, the endless lists of things to do and decorate, but throughout it all, our dogs are there, never leaving our sides. They don’t care if the tree is straight or if the wrapping on their presents matches the gift bag. They only care about spending the festive period with you.
So in between all the craziness that comes with the festive period, make sure to take some time to celebrate the season with your dog too. Whether that’s by visiting one of the UK’s dog-friendly Christmas markets, trying some Christmas recipes for dogs together or taking the day to explore some of the best dog-friendly events happening this year.
Think magical light trails where their senses will be overwhelming in delight, real meet and greets with Santa Paws and even cosy cinema screenings where dogs can join you as you relax and watch a festive film! Whether your pup loves being the centre of attention or prefers a calmer festive stroll, there’s something for everyone to enjoy together.
Here are some of the best dog-friendly Christmas events happening across the UK this year, all of them perfect for making a few new festive memories with your four-legged friend.
Table of Contents
The Best Dog-Friendly Christmas Events
So, where are the best places to bring your dog for a bit of festive fun this year? From twinkling light trails to special meet-and-greets with Santa Paws himself, these dog-friendly Christmas events are some of our favourites across the UK.
Santa Paws at Dobbies Garden Centres
Imaged sourced from events.dobbies.com
Where: UK-wide
When: Selected dates and times. See website for details
If there’s one event guaranteed to get you all in the spirit of Christmas, it’s Santa Paws at Dobbies Garden Centres. Running nationwide from 29th November to 24th December, this heart-warming experience lets your pup meet Santa himself and even take home a special gift from the big man.
There’s plenty to make it memorable including a festive “sniff-ari” through the grotto, fun obstacles and photo opportunities you can pre-book to capture that perfect Christmas card moment. Children can join in with their own ticket to meet Santa and receive a gift too, making it a full family day out.
Winter Glow at Three Counties Showground
Image sourced from winterglow.co.uk
Where: Three Counties Showground, Worcestershire WR13 6NW
When: 21st November to 31st December 2025
Winter Glow at Three Counties Showground is one of the most magical dog-friendly Christmas events in the UK because it includes so much! The popular light trail transforms into a festive playground for both two and four-legged visitors. Dogs are welcome to stroll through the sparkling illuminated displays and enjoy enrichment for the eyes and nose!
For those visiting on the special Santa Paws dates, the experience gets even better. Your dog can meet Father Christmas himself, receive their very own gift, and even enjoy a treat from Mrs Claus’ bakery. There’s also the option to upgrade to a VIP bundle with festive food and drink to make the night extra special.
Dog-friendly dates:
- Santa Paws dates: 21st & 22nd of November 2025; and on the 15th, 16th, 17th and 18th December 2025.
- Dog Friendly Light Trail dates: 21st, 22nd November 2025; and on the 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th and 31st December 2025.
Picture House Dog-Friendly Cinema with Christmas Movies
Image sourced from picturehouses.com
Where: Various locations
When: Selected dates and times. See website for available dates
When the weather outside is frightful, a dog-friendly cinema is the perfect cosy escape and Picturehouse Cinemas have you covered. Every Sunday throughout December, selected Picturehouse locations are rolling out the red carpet for both humans and hounds with special dog-friendly Christmas movie screenings.
You and your pup can settle in together to enjoy festive favourites like Home Alone, Elf, and The Muppet Christmas Carol in a relaxed, pet-friendly atmosphere. The lights are kept slightly up, the volume turned down, and doggy comfort breaks are welcomed making it a stress-free experience for even the most sensitive pups.
Ross & Friends’ Doggy Winter Wonderland
Where: Rossway Park Estate, Berkhamsted HP4 3TZ, UK
When: 13, 14, 20 and 21 December
Another one of the most magical dog-friendly Christmas events in the UK, Ross & Friends’ Doggy Winter Wonderland is a must-visit. Taking place on the 13th, 14th, 20th and 21st of December, this festive celebration turns one of the UK’s best dog parks into a Christmas paradise made just for pups and their people.
Your dog can meet Santa Paws for a festive photo op before stopping by to see The Grinch, who’ll be spreading his usual cheeky mischief. There’s also an adorable Nose & Paw-naments activity, where you can turn your dog’s pawprint or nose print into a keepsake ornament. And, of course, the friendly alpacas will be there to say hello too.
Ingleborough Cave and Grotto
Image sourced from ingleboroughcave.co.uk
Where: The Old Sawmill, Riverside, Clapham, LA2 8DS
When: 6, 7, 13, 14, 21 and 22 December
Deep in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, you’ll find one of the most unique dog-friendly Christmas events in the UK, Ingleborough Cave and Grotto. This enchanting experience begins with a walk along the Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail, winding through woodlands and river valleys before arriving at the breathtaking cave itself.
Guided by Santa’s elves, you and your pup can venture underground through glittering limestone passages to discover a festive grotto like no other. At the end of your journey, you’ll find Santa waiting among twinkling lights and presents. This one is perfect for families with children and dogs!
Pawfestivities
Image sourced from betteshanger-park.co.uk
Where: Betteshanger Park, Deal CT14 0BF
When: 29and 30 November
If you’re looking for a festive day out that’s truly made for dogs, Pawfestivities at Betteshanger Park might just be the highlight of your Christmas calendar. The adventure begins on the Christmas Trail, a 30-minute wander through a twinkling winter wonderland, perfect for soaking up the festive spirit together. Then it’s time to visit Santa’s Grotto, where your pup can meet the big man himself, snap an adorable photo, and receive a special gift worth £20.
Round off your visit with a cosy stop at the Christmas Mini-Market, where you’ll find local, dog-friendly stalls, festive treats and even puppacinos for your pooch. Returning on 29th and 30th November, Pawfestivities is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
Christmas Bake Off
Where: At home – via Zoom!
When: 13th December 2025
If you’d rather stay cosy at home this December but you still want to do something special with your dog, the Christmas Bake Off event by Devon Dogs is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Taking place live via Zoom on 13th December 2025, this interactive 2.5-hour online workshop is packed with festive fun, training games and plenty of fun enrichment recipes to fill your pup’s favourite lick mats and treat dispensers!
You and your pup will join other dog lovers for a joyful mix of holiday-themed activities, enrichment ideas and wintery training challenges, all designed to keep your dog’s mind engaged through the festive season. And if you can’t make it live, you’ll get access to the full recording for two weeks afterwards, so you can join the fun whenever it suits you
WOOOF Own Christmas Bundle
We couldn't let you go without adding our very own Christmas Day Enrichment activity for your pup at your own family event!
The WOOOF Own bundles are made up of all-natural ingredients and either a durable treat dispenser or slow feeder! By buying our bundles you also save some cash for Christmas plus, your pup get to join in with your family Christmas Dinner whilst being calm and enrichment needs met on the big day. Head below for our put together video of just one of our bundles.
Conclusion
With so many magical dog-friendly Christmas events happening across the UK this year, there’s really no excuse to leave your pup out of the festive fun. Whether you’re exploring a twinkling light trail, meeting Santa Paws in person, or snuggling up for a cosy Christmas movie together, these moments are what make the season truly special.
After all, our dogs are part of the family and they deserve a little holiday magic too. And if your calendar is already a little full, you can always treat them to plenty of Christmas gifts for dogs under the tree on Christmas morning. From soft Christmas dog toys to festive-themed enrichment toys and treats, there’s plenty of festive inspo here at WOOOF for filling your dog’s Christmas stocking.
From light trails and Santa meet-and-greets to cosy cinema screenings and festive workshops, there are so many ways to include your dog in the Christmas magic this year.
With December being such a whirlwind of plans, presents and pressure, taking time out for something fun with your dog is an important reminder of what the season is really about.
Whether you’re after a big day out or a simple shared moment, there’s no shortage of dog-friendly Christmas events that make it easy to create memories you’ll both look back on fondly.
The Author: Charlotte Harris
Charlotte has been a writer and dog owner her whole life, so combining these two things together is a dream come true. Her greatest love is her oversized Golden Retriever, Milo, who has a love of tough chews and anything filled with peanut butter!
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What are the best Christmas markets for dogs in the UK?
There are plenty of festive markets that welcome dogs, offering seasonal treats, stalls and decorations to explore together. If you want a full guide to the top dog-friendly Christmas markets across the UK, we’ve already written a blog on this that you can explore for yourself!
Are all Christmas events dog-friendly?
Sadly, not all festive events allow dogs (even if we think they should!) That does mean it’s important to check before you go. Most venues will clearly state if dogs are welcome, and some may require dogs to be on leads or booked in advance.
How do I keep my dog calm in busy festive settings?
Bring familiar items like a favourite toy or blanket, their favourite treats and ensure regular breaks from crowds, and use positive reinforcement to keep your pup relaxed. Some events also offer quiet areas for dogs to decompress. If your pup is a little anxious around lots of noise, smells and people, then dog-friendly Christmas events might not be for them. Instead, treat them at home where they’re most comfortable - maybe with some new enrichment toys as an early Christmas treat!
