There's plenty of festive magic at Croydon’s Centrale & Whitgift Shopping Centre as it transforms into a festive delight.

Up until Christmas Eve, the shopping centre will be offering an array of activities and experiences for families this holiday season.

The free roller rink

Visitors can enjoy free roller-skating sessions, surrounded by street art by  artist and Croydon’s own Alec Saunders.

Beginners and skating enthusiasts alike are invited to skate against this backdrop, situated in a new location opposite House of Fraser in Centrale.

Kids can have fun with doodle cubes and older siblings can skate at the roller rink.

It’s open every day till Christmas Eve from 12pm to 6pm (12pm to 5pm on Sundays).

Croydon Roller is free, but visitors are encouraged to contribute what they can to support Reedham Children’s Trust via a digital payment stand at the event.

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Santa’s Christmas Toy Box at The Whitgift

Families will be greeted by characters like the Toy Soldier, Wind-up Dolly, Jack-in-the-Box, and end by meeting the man of the season himself, Santa Claus.

This interactive experience promises games, dancing, and photo opportunities.

For just £6 per child (with up to 2 adults going free), each group will meet Santa, receive a photograph, and a special Christmas-themed book.

Pollocks Toy Museum at The Whitgift

Pollock’s Toy Museum is London’s oldest historical Toy Museum, after a historic 53 years in Fitzrovia the museum’s temporary home is now in Croydon’s Whitgift centre.

There will be workshops and events for families, celebrating local toy factory Barton & Co Toys, and featuring displays of Tri-ang toys by Libes Bros.

Celebrating local toy factory, Barton & Co Toys, and featuring displays of Tri-ang toys by Libes Bros, this exhibit promises workshops and engaging events for families.

Christmas Carol Competition

Croydon schools and community groups have been invited to join this competition to celebrate local talent.

The competition will take place on December 11, 12, and 13 at Whitgift Square, in which the winner will win a £500 cash prize.

Groups are being encouraged to secure their slots by applying and the winners will be announced on December 15.