There’s so much happening at Magical Christmas this year that even we’re struggling to keep up!
Entry to the event is free, however, if you are looking to visit Santa, you’ll need to buy tickets in advance. They are expected to sell out quickly, so secure your spot today.
Choose from one of two grotto experiences. For both experiences each child will receive a special gift from Santa and a voucher for £1 entry to Tilgate Zoo (valid until 28 February 2027).
Storytime With Santa
Meet Santa as he reads a magical Christmas tale in our enchanting story grotto.
This is a group event that you will share with other families.
Santa’s Grotto
Meet Santa in a personalised, cosy and festive setting.
What’s the difference between Santa’s Grotto and Storytime with Santa?
Both of our Santa attractions are grotto experiences, where children will meet Santa and receive a gift.
- Storytime with Santa allows children more time with Santa while he reads the group a story and then takes individual photos after
- Santa’s Grotto allows a more traditional, but shorter experience
Christmas wreath making workshops
Back by popular demand, our wreath making workshops are returning this December.
Join us on the 11 or 12 December for a cosy, creative session in The Barn at Tilgate Park (right next to the zoo). Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, you’ll leave with a beautiful handmade wreath to proudly hang on your door.
Prices are to be confirmed and booking will be available soon. Workshops include all materials, equipment, expert tuition, and of course, your wreath to take home.
Free shows
Showing four times a day in the marquee is our new 2026 show, The Sleigh Incident. It follows Tilgate’s two cheeky elves, Nistle and Nostle, as they share their side of the story about what really happened on an unforgettable day.
Santa seems to remember things a little differently (if you visit Storytime with Santa, you may just hear what he remembers from the day of the sleigh incident). Join the fun and discover how the zoo’s mischievous squirrel monkeys, Hank, Jesse and Gollum, became tangled up in the adventure.
Variety acts
Each day of Magical Christmas will see impromptu performances from local talent – dancing, acting, and singing; you name it, we’re showcasing it!
Craft market
The Christmas market returns to the marquee, hosted by Crawley Small Business & Makers Market. Have a search through local makers goods to find that special treat for someone you love…or yourself, it is Christmas, after all!
Festive treats
You spoke, we listened. Yorkshire pudding wraps are BACK AGAIN! As well as the other usual suspects, of course.
Funfair rides
The arena will host some children’s funfair rides for your little elves to enjoy with some new additions for 2026.
Escape room
Plot Twist Events are back with their actor-led escape game for families.
Booking will be available soon on the Plot Twist events website.
Tilgate Zoo
Make your day at Tilgate Zoo. The zoo will be open until 4pm each evening (last entry 3pm) and will host festive animal talks throughout the day.
Tickets can also be purchased at the door on the day.