Dog-friendly Christmas markets and events

Markets, festivals, winter wonderlands; these packed-out places full of humans are havens for festive fanatics, filled to the rafters with scents of the season, handmade gifts and lots of lovely jingles in the air. But what is there for Christmas-crazy canines to enjoy? Not all of the events that puppy parents go to are appropriate for pooches, so you need to carefully choose where to head if you’re taking your festive fluffball along too.

That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best dog-friendly events and warming winter destinations this Christmas, especially suited to your four-legged friends to keep them happy – and not humbugging! Remember, these are just a paw full of the tail-waggingly wonderful winter events for dogs and humans – many Christmas markets and illuminations events are dog friendly by default, just check before travelling to ensure a fun experience for the whole pack.

If you've already chosen a destination but need a place to stay, browse our dog-friendly cottages below.

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• Dog-friendly Christmas markets
• Santa Paws is coming to town
• Christmas doggy photography
• Pop-up dog events

Dog-friendly Christmas markets

Bath Christmas Market, Somerset

Take your pooch to a Christmas market they won't paw-get in a hurry! Stroll along Bath's historic streets with Fido in tow, taking in all the sights and smells along the way. You'll enjoy the stalls and the fantastic architecture, whilst your pooch will just be hoping for a chunk of bratwurst. With this market being one of the South West's favourite dog-friendly Christmas events, it can get very busy, so if your pup prefers things a little more peaceful, head along during the quieter, mid-week periods for your slice of festive cheer.

Winter Wonderland - Hyde Park, London

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is pretty hard to beat when it comes to winter attractions. A six-week-long family and dog-friendly event, one of you can take the kids ice skating whilst the other watches some live music or has a wander around the market with the dog. We would recommend going a little earlier in the day, as it might be a bit busy for pooches in the evening, plus the early spots benefit from lower prices, or are free!

The Doggy Festive Market, Devon

A Christmas extravaganza specifically for your four-legged friend, The Doggy Festive Market is the perfect place to pick up presents for all of the pooches in your life! Not only will there be dog-related stalls galore, but you can also treat your dog to a visit to Santa Paws, complete with a photo opportunity to capture your furry family member in all their festive glory. Activities such as a Snow Ball Run, doggy party games and a festive dog show all add to the fun for your pet.

Santa Paws is coming to town!

Santa Paws at Planters Garden Centre, Staffordshire

Has your pooch been naughty or nice this year? You’ll soon find out, as your darling dog will get to meet Santa Paws himself! After having a cuddle, your pup will receive a Christmas treat and have their photo taken. You'll then have the opportunity to purchase the photo along with a range of personalised gifts to make the visit even more special.

Santa Paws at Dobbies Garden Centres, UK-wide

All across the country, Dobbies Garden Centres are gearing up to deliver your dog a festive experience to remember. Your lucky pup can meet the big man himself in his grotto, and you can even purchase children's tickets so their human siblings can join in the fun too. Photo options are available if you'd like to capture the moment for posterity, and the gift for your dog can be preselected in advance to make sure that they get what's on their wish list! Booking is essential, because there are lots of dogs looking forward to this Christmassy day out.

Santa Paws at the House of Marbles, Devon

An enchanting destination at the best of times, the House of Marbles is transformed into a winter wonderland as Christmas approaches, with dazzling displays which will tempt adults, and children alike, and now even the family pet can join in with the fun. Fido can come along for their very own festive experience, to enjoy the thrill of meeting Santa Paws and sit down to have their photo taken with him.

Winter Glow at Three Counties Showground, Worcestershire

The chance to meet Santa Paws is just one of the attractions on the dog-friendly days of Winter Glow. Your pampered pooch will leave with a paw-some gift, and maybe even an edible treat from Mrs Claus' bakery, and then it's off out to discover the Christmassy magic of the Winter Glow. With your dog by your side, you can explore the illuminated light trail – a veritable feast for the eyes and an opportunity to capture some dazzling photos of an evening out to remember. If you feel like splashing out, opt for the VIP bundle which includes the above, as well as a VIP table with festive food and drink. The dog-friendly dates are limited, so book fast to avoid disappointment. 

Christmas doggy photography, Midlothian

Need an idea for this year's Christmas cards? Fear not, Pentland Plants has got you covered. Bring the pooch along when you go to get your Christmas tree and set them up in front of the Christmassy backdrop for a professional festive photo. Not only will your pup look super cute in their photo but in the spirit of giving, £5 from each booking will go directly to charity, so you'll get that warm, fuzzy feeling twice over.

Pop-up dog events

Pop+Bark dog cafes, UK-wide

The brainchild of a company who are barking mad about dogs, Pop+Bark's breed-specific Christmas cafe events are the place to be this festive season! The Cockapoo Cafe is the destination of choice for your curly-haired cross-breeds, while the Daschund Cafe will make your dainty sausage dog feel right at home. Golden retrievers, Schnauzers, Dalmatians and cavaliers are among the other lucky breeds to be treated to their own Christmas celebration. You can expect a whole host of festive activities and treats, along with surprise guests, cocktails for the human contingent, a pop-up dog boutique and delicious food for dog and owners.

Pup Up Cafe - dog cafes, UK-wide

In a similar fashion to Pop+Bark above, Pup Up Cafe organise fun-filled events for our favourite four-legged friends throughout the year, and their festive specials are not to be missed. Their Pure Christmas Tour events are open to all friendly dogs, and they also have breed-specific events for those looking to socialise with kindred spirits. So whether you've got a pug or a pekingese, head on down for festive frivolities with presents, photos, puppuccinos, toys, Santa's grotto and more!

Dog socials

Dogs Go's Dog Playtimes and Puppy Socialisation events are a great way to get you and your dog meeting new pups, both indoors and out. With different events for different-sized dogs and even specific parties for certain breeds, you're bound to find the right party for your pup and come on, it's the 'leashed' you could do! Choose from Pups and Prosecco, indoor and outdoor playtime, and even dog birthday parties! While these events are not specifically Christmas-themed, they're great for getting out and about in the run-up to the big day.

Note: If you need to visit somewhere where dogs are not permitted, Dogs Go also provides Dog Day Camps in Upton and Raby.

Dog-friendly places to stay

If we’ve put you in the mood for a wintry retreat with your family pet or a Christmas escape with your canine, check out our dog-friendly cottages across the country and get prepped for an un-paw-gettable holiday! Don't forget to pack their presents – and if you're stuck for gift ideas, have a browse of some of our Christmas present suggestions for dogs.

Details were correct at the time of publishing. Please check local press and company websites for updated information.