Winter at the Barbican

There's always something new to explore here – discover Art, Cinema, Theatre, Music and a whole lot more...

As the year winds down and we find ourselves in the midst of winter, step into a world of light, creativity and renewal. This season, our programming will share moments of joy, brightness and warmth.

We’re delighted to introduce seasonal food offers designed to make your visit a feast for all senses. Get together with loved ones for a taste of warmth and community in a space to relax and celebrate in a way that feels cozy and joyful - a true festive escape within the City.

Whether you're here to discover new stories or spend quality time with loved ones, the Barbican is a place to find a renewed sense of light and possibility. As we look to the new year ahead, we hope you’ll join us for moments that inspire, uplift, and remind us of the beauty in art, family, gathering and connection.

Devyani Saltzman
Director for Arts & Participation

Art & Design

Don’t miss the chance to catch our exhibitions including the Imaginary Institution of India and Pamela Phatsimo Sunstrum’s It will end in tears in The Curve, which close on 5 January.

Theatre & Dance

The last full moon of the year symbolises rebirth and renewal. In the spirit of renewal, start your 2025 with a series of incredible performances at MimeLondon, including Moby Dick by French-Norwegian theatre company Plexus Polaire – a magical puppet show filled with breathtaking artistry that creates an interplay of shadow and light.

Don’t miss the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Though its title evokes warmer times, the magic it’s imbued with is just right for this time of year as it blends themes of dreams and illumination with a light-hearted touch.

Music

Irish singer-songwriter Lisa O’Neill will perform songs from her back catalogue under the Cold Moon in December, while Dur Dur Band takes us to 1980s Mogadishu and the golden era of music before the civil war.

Cinema

The best international new releases, talks with filmmakers, major curated seasons and leads in the presentation of the performing arts on screen.

Family

We need each other and gathering more than ever. If you have the opportunity to be with family, or are in need of finding chosen family in communal experiences, we have experiences for all ages to enjoy the season together. Among the highlights is a Family Concert by our resident orchestra, the London Symphony Orchestra, First Light - an installation that bathes you and baby (aged 0-18 months) in light and sound, and our special Family and Senior Community Screenings of films.