Celebrities, influencers and members of the press are set to attend an exclusive VIP preview as the popular Christmas attraction returns to Essex this November.
The magic of Christmas is returning to Essex as The Christmas Destination at Lakeside prepares to welcome visitors for another spectacular festive season, featuring ice skating, fairground rides, festive food, entertainment and plenty of Christmas cheer.
Located at The Quay, Lakeside Shopping Centre in Thurrock, the popular attraction will officially open to the public on Saturday 14 November 2026, running until Sunday 3 January 2027.
Before the public opening, organisers will roll out the red carpet for an exclusive VIP Press Preview Night on Friday 13 November, welcoming celebrity guests, influencers, members of the press and specially invited guests for an evening of festive celebrations.
Celebrities and Influencers to Attend Exclusive VIP Press Night
The invitation-only VIP Press Night, taking place from 5pm until 10pm, promises an exciting first look at this year’s Christmas festivities.
Celebrity personalities, social media influencers, journalists and other invited guests are expected to attend the special launch, which will feature red carpet arrivals, ice skating, skating performances, fairground rides, entertainment and festive food and drinks.
The event will also support Little Havens children’s hospice, giving guests the opportunity to make donations and contribute towards the charity’s important work supporting children and families.
Representatives from Little Havens will be present throughout the evening, with donation facilities available for those wishing to show their support.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Arthur Bugler Primary School Choir will welcome guests with a special performance.
The choir has a meaningful connection to the attraction, having inspired the popular Sing and Skate programme, which provides opportunities for local school choirs to perform throughout the Christmas season.
Organisers said:
“We’re really looking forward to welcoming our invited guests to our Christmas PR night at The Destination @ Lakeside. It’s a chance to bring local supporters and familiar faces together for a first look at this year’s festive celebrations.”
They added:
“We’re especially proud that the evening is in aid of Little Havens, bringing everyone together to celebrate while supporting a charity that means so much to local families.”
A Magical Christmas Experience for the Whole Family
Following the VIP launch, The Christmas Destination will open its doors to the public, transforming part of Lakeside into a festive attraction for families, friends and visitors of all ages.
Guests can look forward to the return of the spectacular Christmas wheel, alongside a range of fairground rides, festive games and a Christmas ice rink.
Food lovers can indulge in seasonal favourites including Yorkshire pudding wraps, churros and hot chocolate, while a new indoor bar provides somewhere to relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
With free entry to the attraction, visitors can explore the festive surroundings without purchasing an admission ticket, paying separately for activities, rides, food and drinks.
Ice Skating, The Grinch and Festive Entertainment
One of the attraction’s highlights is its Christmas ice rink, offering 45-minute skating sessions for beginners, families and experienced skaters.
Visitors can also enjoy a programme of special experiences throughout the festive season, including:
- Skate with the Grinch: 5–6, 12–13 and 19–20 December at 1pm.
- Disco on Ice: Every Friday and Saturday at 9pm.
- Skate with Ice Team Jones: A special instructor-led session on Saturday 21 November at 11am.
- SEND-friendly skating sessions: Dedicated sessions throughout the season, with free carer tickets available for eligible bookings.
- Early Bird skating: £14 per skater for selected Monday–Thursday sessions between 16 November and 10 December.
The attraction will also welcome local school choirs as part of its Sing and Skate programme, bringing additional festive entertainment to Lakeside.
Free Entry Throughout the Christmas Season
The Christmas Destination at Lakeside offers free general admission, making it an accessible festive outing for families and groups looking to celebrate the season.
Fairground ride tokens cost £1.20 each, or 10 for £10, with rides requiring between three and five tokens.
Ice skating, food, drinks and other activities are charged separately.
With its combination of Christmas entertainment, festive treats and family-friendly attractions, The Christmas Destination is set to become a popular destination for visitors across Essex and beyond this festive season.
Plan Your Visit
Location: The Christmas Destination at Lakeside, The Quay, Lakeside Shopping Centre, Thurrock, Essex, RM20 2AD.
VIP Press Night: Friday 13 November 2026, 5pm–10pm (invitation only).
Public opening: Saturday 14 November 2026.
Final day: Sunday 3 January 2027.
Admission: Free entry, with separate charges for activities, rides, food and drinks.
Opening hours (14 November – 20 December):
- Monday–Thursday: 4pm–9pm
- Friday: 4pm–10pm
- Saturday–Sunday: 10am–10pm
Opening hours (21 December – 3 January):
- Daily: 10am–10pm
For more information and to book ice skating sessions, visit the website.
