Chester is a busy city all year round, with packed programmes of cultural, historic, theatrical and artistic events held in venues across the city. These are just five on the diary for December. For more events and places to stay, log on to visitchester.com

Until January 5

Winter Wonderland

All manner of festive treats, including a traditional Christmas market, Santa’s grotto, reindeer, and ice rink, fairground rides and a 3d movie room showing seasonal favourites. There’s also a bar in case it all gets too much.

Chester Racecourse.

December 5-January 11

The Snow Queen

Theatre in the Quarter’s adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic story of good, bad and a perilous journey to the snow queen’s palace. St Mary’s Centre. Tickets 01244 500959.

December 7-30

Snow White and the Seven Dwarves

Christmas wouldn’t be complete without the traditional fun and laughs of a panto.

The Forum Studio Theatre. Tickets 01244 341296.

December 12-23

Lantern Magic

Lighting up Chester Zoo for the second year running with magical animal lanterns and spectacular festive twinkles. Tickets 01244 650240.

Until January 3

#ChesterKissmas

Take a selfie giving someone you love a Christmas Kiss under the Mistletoe at the various Mistletoe stations throughout the city.

Upload your photo using #ChesterKissmas to Instagram, Facebook or Twitter for a chance to win great prizes.

Chester (various locations) http://www.christmasinchester.com/