A Christmas Masquerade at Castle Howard

Christmas at Castle Howard is a spectacle like no other.
New for 2019 Christmas opening will run into the New Year - until Sunday 5th January 2020.

Enjoy a truly magical day out as Castle Howard is transformed for the festive season. Experience the magnificent decorations as you journey through the house’s grand state rooms. Open fires, candle light and live music evoke all that we love about this special time of year, with the iconic 25ft traditional Christmas tree adorned with over 3000 baubles providing a breath-taking highlight in the Great Hall.

Inspirational design team Charlotte Lloyd Webber and Bretta Gereke have worked with the theme 'A Christmas Masquerade’ to produce a stunning array of flamboyant displays and installations to surprise and delight visitors of all ages. The Castle Howard "Christmas Masquerade” celebrates the house’s theatrical roots and the influence of the Italian Baroque on its magnificent architecture and interiors.

The House prepares for a grand masked ball inspired by the Venetian Carnival to be held in the Long Gallery spectacularly adorned as the Grand Canal. Amongst the sumptuous decorations and awe inspiring costumes, a troupe of travelling players prepare festive entertainments for the guests. These ebullient, mischievous characters - Harlequin, Colombine, Pierrot and the Zanni Clown are part of the famous Commedia dell Arte who became the much-loved characters of the pantomimes that remain one of our best beloved Christmas traditions. A magical immersive experience that will embody the spirit of the season in true Castle Howard style.

It is easy to spend a full day here as you soak up the jovial atmosphere, enjoy an array of indulgent winter warmers across our catering outlets and complete your Christmas shopping in our Gift Shops, Farm Shop and Garden Centre. And don’t miss the opportunity to meet the big man himself as Father Christmas will be making some very special visits.