Both Roe Valley and Flowerfield Arts Centres are brimming with festive cheer this December, offering a wonderful mix of creative workshops, family-friendly theatre, live music and community celebrations.
At Flowerfield Arts Centre, the month brings a blend of seasonal craft and festive storytelling.
Families are invited to enjoy The Elves and the Shoemaker from Banyan Theatre (6th December) – a gentle, imaginative introduction to theatre for little ones (3-11 yrs) – and can extend the magic with a rod-puppet workshop on the same morning. Music and dance fans can come along to the annual Festive Tea Dance with The Soda Popz (10th December), and enjoy a gorgeous evening of music with Duke Special (12th December).
Children and adults alike can get hands-on in festive creative sessions: kids can make clay decorations with Fiona Shannon (6th December) or ‘forever’ festive keepsakes with Linda Mulholland (13th December), while adults can creative a gorgeous tiffany style glass wildflower bouquet with EJ McCartney (6th December) or handcraft their own unique festive decorations with Fiona Shannon (6th December).
If you’re looking for thoughtful, meaningful presents this year, the Christmas Craft Market at Flowerfield remains one of the North Coast’s favourite festive shopping spots – full of handmade gifts, artisan treats, original art and contemporary craft. It’s perfect for finding something unique while supporting local makers. On the Thursday 11th December there will be a special Twilight market from 6pm - 8:30pm with mulled wine and live music. The Market runs until 23rd December.
In Limavady, Roe Valley Arts Centre offers a packed festive programme for families and adults. Highlights include Christmas Country with the Stars (5th December), a cosy Songs & Scones afternoon with The Henry Girls (9th December), and the playful puppet storytelling of The Gingerbread Man, ideal for families.
For budding young makers, Roe Valley hosts exciting December workshops. Children aged 7–11 can Design a Christmas Eve Plate & Mug for Santa on 13th December, creating a keepsake to leave out for Jolly old Saint Nick. And on 22nd December, the Santa Science workshop young explorers to discover the science behind Christmas in a fun, drop-off session – perfect for parents needing an hour of Christmas shopping. Meanwhile, adults still have a chance to join the Strawbles Christmas Decoration workshop on 6th December, creating charming strawberry-shaped decorations for the tree – but spaces are limited.
Roe Valley Arts Centre’s gift shop is stocked with ceramics, textiles, jewellery and locally made treasures – ideal for stocking fillers, thoughtful presents, or gifts for those who love to support independent makers.
Gift tickets also make brilliant presents for music lovers, theatregoers or anyone who enjoys a night out. In the new year at Roe Valley, audiences can anticipate the much-loved Frances Black (3rd January), and The Luke Kelly Story (31st January), a moving tribute celebrating the Dubliners legend. At Flowerfield, the new year brings Andy Irvine (27th February) – a rare opportunity to experience a true icon of Irish folk.
The brand-new January – April 2026 programme for both arts centres will be available to pick up soon, packed full of live events, creative workshops and unmissable exhibitions. Keep an eye on the centres’ websites.
Whether you’re looking for handcrafted gifts, keen to support local artists, or giving tickets to performances, both Roe Valley and Flowerfield Arts Centres offer meaningful alternatives to high-street shopping this Christmas. Give the gift of creativity, community and something to look forward to long after the decorations come down.
For more information or to book please visit the Flowerfield and Roe Valley Arts websites.
Flowerfield Christmas Craft Market
Frances Black