Family Things To Do in Lancaster

2 events on in Lancaster coming up, including Santa Dash at Market Square and The Cosy Christmas Grotto at CancerCare.

• Santa Dash

  Sunday 29 November · 13:30 – 15:30

  Market Square, Lancaster

  Our annual Santa Dash is back again bigger and better for 2026! This year our Santa Dash has three different festive races you can take part in and we would love for you to join us! The event take parts on the day of Lancaster's Christmas Light Switch On and is an incredible festive experience. You can choose to take part in : CancerCare's Santa Dash - A one mile fun run around the city centre designed for all ages and ablities. Every dasher will receive a santa hat, medal and candy cane. As a special treat, the child / family that raises the most sponsorship has the honour of turning on the Lancaster Christmas lights on stage with Father Christmas! A magical dream come true for any child! Festive 5K and 10K - Take part in our 5K or 10k to go one step further this year and end your year on a festive high. Each route is out-and-back and every runner will receive a santa hat and a medal. Whichever run you choose to partake in, it is guranteed to be an amazing festive day!

• The Cosy Christmas Grotto

  Saturday 12 December

  CancerCare, Lancaster

  Join us at the historic Slynedales for a truly magical Christmas experience. Guided by your groups very own mischievous elf, you'll embark on a festive mission through a series of magical rooms, meeting your favourite Christmas characters along the way. Your adventure includes story time with Mrs Claus, letter writing in the Wishing Room, a visit to Santa's Grotto, your choice of a toy from the Toy Workshop, and finally a relaxing stop at the Cosy Christmas Café. Each session is limited to just six children, creating a warm and personal experience. Please note that this means your group may be joined by other families during your adventure. If you would prefer a private experience with friends or family, please book all six child spaces for your chosen time slot. Advance booking is essential and each ticket includes a luxury hot chocolate and a present from the workshop . Additional refreshments will be available to purchase from our Cosy Christmas Cafe. All funds raised will support CancerCare and our mission to be there for adults, children and families affected by cancer, life-shortening illnesses, and bereavement across Lancashire and South Cumbria.