Manx National Heritage is hosting a number of Christmas events over the next couple of weekends.

The first of the events will be in Castle Rushen as part of Castletown’s Christmas celebrations.

This is in collaboration with Castletown Commissioners.

In Castletown Square at 2pm there will be a Santa dash, a Christmas market and entertainment, including local choirs and silver bands, Jack and the Beanstalk live on stage, and an appearance from Father Christmas. The Snow Queen will be making a special appearance too.

Meanwhile, the Castletown Carnival Queen will switch on the Christmas lights in the square at 6pm, which is free to attend.

Castletown’s events will finish with the Young Farmers Tractor Parade at 7pm.

Standard admission charges apply for Castle Rushen but entry is free to children, members and annual pass holders.

Helen Ashcroft, MNH public engagement manager, said: ’This promises to be a magical festive event, which MNH are delighted to be part of.’

On Sunday, December 5 from 9.30am to 4.30pm, the House of Manannan will host a Christmas fair, featuring a range of local artisans, which is free to attend.

There will be a book signing by Tanya Anderson of Lovely Greens at 11.30am.

On December 11 the Grove Museum in Ramsey is to host a Victorian Christmas celebration, including festive crafts, entertainment, and a visit from a Victorian Father Christmas in his traditional green costume.

The Parish Pantry will be in the Grove Conservatory serving food and drink. Standard site admission applies, which includes free entry to children. Tickets to meet Father Christmas cost £5 on the day, with each child receiving a quality gift to take home.

As the Christmas holidays get underway, all ’Mini Mariners’ are invited to the Manx Museum on Wednesday, December 22 for a special nautical-themed workshop in the Voyage Exhibition Gallery. Workshop tickets cost £5 including crafts, games and activities - accompanying adults go free. The event is most suitable for seven- to 10-year-olds.

Tickets are available from www.manxnationalheritage.im/shop