Festive Fun at Ballet North: Christmas Watching Week and Pop-Up Shop Returns
Welcome to the official news and updates page for Ballet North, your local dance school in Islington, Clapton, Stoke Newington, and London Fields. Whether you’re a current parent, prospective student, or community member, this is where you’ll find the latest announcements, seasonal events, class updates, and behind-the-scenes highlights from our team.
Stay informed about:
✓ New term dates and registration openings
✓ Holiday workshops and themed camps
✓ Performance schedules and venue news
✓ Teacher spotlights and class stories
✓ Local dance events and community features
We’ll also be sharing useful information for North London parents looking to introduce their children to ballet in a creative, supportive environment.
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Celebrate the Season with Ballet North in North London
Looking for a joyful way to celebrate the festive season with your little dancer? Ballet North’s Christmas Watching Week and Pop-Up Shop return to Islington, Clapton, and Stoke Newington this December, bringing together community, creativity, and Christmas magic. Whether you're a current parent, a prospective family, or simply someone looking for local Christmas activities for children in North London, this is a date for your diary.
Watching Week, starting 8 December, gives families the chance to see the incredible progress students have made over the term. And on 6 December, our one-day-only Pop-Up Shop makes it easy to get ballet shoes, uniforms, and even Christmas presents sorted before the term ends.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about this festive double feature, including guest guidelines, student highlights, gift ideas, and how to prepare for the January term.
What Is Christmas Watching Week at Ballet North?
Christmas Watching Week is a cherished tradition at Ballet North. It is not just a performance but a celebration of every child's progress and passion for dance.
Held during the week beginning 8 December 2025, families are invited into the studio to see their children perform. Each child may bring up to two guests, creating a warm and supportive audience for this special occasion.
What to Expect:
- A display of the term’s ballet techniques and choreography
- A festive routine choreographed just for Christmas
- Handmade Christmas ornament crafts to take home (Under 5s to Primary)
- Smiles, sparkles, and applause for a term well danced
A Milestone for Our Older Dancers – IDTA Exams
For students from Primary Ballet and up, Watching Week coincides with an important event: IDTA dance exams.
These formal assessments are conducted by a visiting examiner from the International Dance Teachers’ Association (IDTA). Students perform a set list of exercises with no instructor assistance, showcasing their discipline, technique, and confidence.
If you're attending a class where exams are taking place, you're witnessing an impressive moment in a young dancer's journey.
Don’t Miss Our Pop-Up Ballet Shop – 6 December
Need ballet gear for the new term or a thoughtful Christmas gift for your young dancer? Join us at our Pop-Up Ballet Shop in Islington.
- 6 December 2025
- 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- St Mary’s Neighbourhood Centre, Upper Street, Islington
What You’ll Find:
- Ballet shoes and uniforms
- Leotards, skirts, and tights
- Seasonal dresses and accessories
- Unique Christmas gift ideas for dancers
This is a great opportunity to check sizes in person and ensure your child is fully prepared for January classes. Stock is limited, so we recommend visiting early.
Why Families Love These End-of-Term Events
Whether you are an enrolled family or thinking about joining us in the new year, these events offer a real sense of Ballet North's values: creativity, inclusivity, and community.
Watching Week lets parents connect with the magic of what happens each week in class. For newcomers, it is a gentle way to see if Ballet North is the right fit for your child.
Our Pop-Up Shop also provides an easy, stress-free way to buy everything needed for the next term, along with a few festive treats.
Event Details at a Glance
Christmas Watching Week
- When: Week beginning 8 December
- Guests: Up to 2 per child
- What’s Happening: Student performances, festive dance routines, and handmade props
- Exam Notes: Formal IDTA exams for Primary and above
Pop-Up Ballet Shop
- Date: 6 December
- Time: 9 AM to 1 PM
- Location: St Mary’s Neighbourhood Centre, Upper Street, Islington
- Stock: Uniforms, shoes, Christmas dresses, small gift items
Ready for January? Book Your Spot Now
Our January 2026 term begins Monday 5 January, and classes are filling quickly. Whether your child is new to ballet or preparing for graded exams, our team is ready to support their journey.
✓ Trial classes available at half price
✓ No uniform needed for your first class
✓ Classes in Islington, Clapton, and Stoke Newington
Browse Our Classes | See How to Book | View the Gallery
Join Ballet North’s Festive Events and Book Your Child’s Ballet Class in Islington Today
Come and celebrate with us this December at Ballet North. Whether you're clapping along during Watching Week or picking up gifts at our Pop-Up Shop, we can't wait to see you.
Book your January class today at balletnorth.co.uk
Questions? Email info@balletnorth.co.uk
Office Hours
10am – 2pm Weekdaysinfo@balletnorth.co.uk
07870685596
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