Mischievous Mice Take Over Fairfax House for the Ultimate Eighteenth Century Christmas Party

Fairfax House’s much-loved Christmas display returns for 2025 with a brand-new theme: A Christmas Mousequerade.

This year promises more mice than ever before. Many mice are dressed in hand-crafted and exquisitely miniature Georgian finery, custom-made by Fairfax House’s volunteers.

Step into the glittering world of Georgian York and join the Fairfax family as they prepare for the most spectacular ball of the season. As you wander through the House, you’ll find all sorts of Georgian amusements brought to life: the excitement of the boxing ring, the bustle of a gambling den, classic Christmas parlour games, and a ballroom dressed for a truly grand occasion. You’ll also discover stunning examples of Georgian fashion throughout, offering a wonderful glimpse into 18th-century style.

As Ann Fairfax and the Viscount prepare to welcome their distinguished guests, keep your eyes peeled for the Townmice, who are determined not to miss out on the celebrations, and may just cause a little festive mayhem along the way!

Perfect for all ages, A Christmas Mousequerade offers an enchanting experience for families this festive season. Children will delight in spotting the mice in their elegant ballgowns and playful poses, while adults can revel in the beauty of Georgian Christmas traditions brought vividly to life.

Curator Sarah Burnage said, “We absolutely love this time of year when the house is dressed for a Georgian Christmas and over-run with our mischievous mice. It’s always a pleasure to imagine how the Fairfaxes might have celebrated Christmas over 250 years ago – especially when hosting such a big party. We really hope visitors enjoy what we’ve created this year… we’ve certainly enjoyed creating it.”

A Christmas Mousequerade at Fairfax House

Dates: 15 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Tickets: Adults £9.50 | Concessions £8.50 | Under 16s go free
Location: Fairfax House, York

A Christmas Mousequerade: https://fairfaxhouse.co.uk/event/christmas-at-fairfax-house/

Candlelit Evenings

As a special seasonal highlight, visitors can also experience A Christmas Mousequerade by candlelight on three magical evenings: 17, 19 and 22 December (5–7pm). Fairfax House will glow with soft candlelight, evoking the atmosphere of an intimate Georgian gathering.

Candlelit evenings: https://fairfaxhouse.co.uk/event/a-christmas-mousequerade-by-candlelight/