Festive Weekend
5 & 6 December 2026
Step into a traditional Dickensian Christmas as the Ragged Victorians bring the festive season vividly to life.
Meet expert re-enactors demonstrating what Christmas was like for poorer Victorians and explore the sights, sounds and traditions of a 19th-century festive celebration. Enjoy seasonal music from local choirs and musicians, listen to festive storytelling, visit our artisan craft stalls, and enjoy an audience with Father Christmas.
Victorian Christmas
Step back into a Victorian Christmas with The Ragged Victorians and discover how the festive season was celebrated in the 19th century.
Meet costumed characters, explore Victorian Christmas traditions and find out how people from different walks of life would have experienced the season. From festive customs and decorations to everyday life at Christmas.
Local Bands and Choirs
Enjoy live festive music throughout the weekend, with performances from local bands, choirs and community music groups.
Performances will take place in Hill Farm Barn throughout the day, filling our historic buildings with Christmas music.
Festively Decorated Historic Buildings
Local Artisan Craft Stalls
Browse a selection of artisan craft stalls in Northolt Barn, Thame Vicarage Room, and Norwich Marquee from local makers and discover handmade gifts, crafts and seasonal treats.
The Museum’s shop will be stocked with items that would make great Christmas gifts.
An Audience with Father Christmas
Father Christmas will be joining us for the weekend.
Come along for a special group festive audience and add a little Christmas magic to your visit.
Horse and Carriage Rides *
*Additional Charge
Event Information
This is a Premium Admission Day.
Free entry for COAM Annual Members.
Activities take place between 10am and 4pm.
Visits to Father Christmas are done as a group and do not include a gift.
Horse and carriage rides require an additional charge.
General Museum Information
With 45 acres at your disposal, there is plenty to explore, including woodlands and an exciting adventure playground
Dogs on short leads are welcome but must not go inside residential buildings
Light lunches, drinks, cakes and snacks are available to purchase from our Skippings Barn
Sensory backpacks are available to borrow (subject to availability)
Mobility scooters are available to borrow (subject to availability - pre-booking is advised)
Lots of free parking
Photography and filming may take place during this event for the Museum archives and publicity. These photographs and video footage may appear in promotional or educational materials including on our websites, social media pages, newsletters, or in newspapers and magazines. If you do not wish to be photographed, please speak to the photographer.