February half term is almost here, and it’s one of the busiest – and sweetest – breaks of the year. With Valentine’s Day, Pancake Day and a well-earned week off school all rolled into one, it’s the perfect time to plan memorable things to do this February half term.
From heart-shaped chocolates to stacks of syrup-soaked pancakes, February half term is made for treats – and there’s no better one than a trip to the West End. Whether you’re entertaining little ones, teenagers or the whole family, London is packed with February half term events and half term shows guaranteed to impress.
So leave the batter-covered whisk to “soak”, ignore the splashes on the ceiling, and escape into one of these must-see London theatre productions.
### **The Lion King**
Roaring into its 27th year in the West End, [*The Lion King*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/the-lion-king-tickets) continues to reign supreme as one of the most popular half term shows in London. This Disney classic is bursting with jaw-dropping puppetry, stunning visuals and a powerful live score that never fails to amaze.
The story follows Simba’s journey from wide-eyed cub to courageous leader. Along the way, he forms unlikely friendships with Timon and Pumbaa before learning to confront his past and reclaim his place in the Circle of Life. A breathtaking celebration of family, friendship and identity, The Lion King is a perfect choice for February half term theatre trips.
### **Matilda The Musical**
Inspired by **Roald Dahl**’s beloved novel and brought to the stage by **Tim Minchin**, [*Matilda The Musical*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/matilda-the-musical-tickets) has been delighting West End audiences for 15 years! Packed with exhilarating choreography and award-winning songs, it’s a family favourite for good reason.
Matilda is brilliantly clever, endlessly imaginative and determined to stand up to the cruel adults in her life – including a green-haired car salesman and a hammer-throwing headmistress. Celebrating kindness, courage and the power of intelligence, this musical is a joy for children and adults alike and a standout option for things to do in February half term.
🎫 [Book *Matilda The Musical* tickets today!](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/matilda-the-musical-tickets)
### **Harry Potter and the Cursed Child**
Spending the holidays at school doesn’t sound all that exciting – unless that school happens to be Hogwarts. [*Harry Potter and the Cursed Child*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/play/harry-potter-and-the-cursed-child-tickets) remains one of the most spellbinding February half term events in London.
Set nearly two decades after the Battle of Hogwarts, the story follows an adult Harry Potter and his son, Albus, who struggles to escape his father’s legendary shadow. When Albus and his unlikely best friend Scorpius Malfoy get their hands on a Time-Turner, they embark on a thrilling adventure that puts past, present and future at risk. Packed with extraordinary stage magic, this is a must-see half term show for older children and teens.
🎫 [Book *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* tickets today!](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/play/harry-potter-and-the-cursed-child-tickets)
### **Hamilton**
Just because school’s out doesn’t mean the learning stops. [*Hamilton*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/hamilton-west-end-tickets) is one of the most electrifying half term shows in the West End, blending history, hip-hop and unforgettable storytelling.
**Lin-Manuel Miranda**’s multi-award-winning musical charts the rise of Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant orphan who becomes George Washington’s right-hand man and a key figure in American history. With rapid-fire lyrics, breathtaking choreography and iconic songs like *Guns and Ships*, nothing beats seeing this cultural phenomenon live during February half term.
### **Starlight Express**
High-speed thrills take centre stage in [*Starlight Express*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/starlight-express-tickets), **Andrew Lloyd Webber**’s roller-skating spectacular. This energetic production is ideal for families looking for exciting things to do this February half term.
With performers racing around the auditorium on skates, dazzling costumes and a pulse-pounding score, Starlight Express is a feast for the senses. Its simple, uplifting story about friendship, belief and finding your confidence makes it a brilliant half term show for children and first-time theatre-goers.
### **My Neighbour Totoro**
Studio Ghibli’s [*My Neighbour Totoro*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/play/my-neighbour-totoro-tickets) has been beautifully reimagined for the stage in this enchanting and visually stunning production. A gentle, magical story about childhood, imagination and family, it’s one of the most unique February half term events in London.
Following two sisters who discover a world of mysterious forest spirits, this production combines breathtaking puppetry, exquisite music and heartfelt storytelling. Perfect for families seeking a calmer, magical theatre experience during February half term.
### **Disney's Hercules**
Get ready for gods, heroes and high-energy fun with [*Disney’s Hercules*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/hercules-tickets). This bold and joyful musical brings ancient myth to life with humour, heart and show-stopping songs.
Following Hercules on his journey to discover what it truly means to be a hero, this production is packed with colourful characters, infectious music and plenty of laughs. A fantastic choice for families looking for upbeat half term shows with plenty of Disney magic.
### **Oliver!**
**Lionel Bart**’s [*Oliver!*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/oliver-gielgud-tickets) remains one of the most beloved family musicals of all time and a timeless choice for February half term theatre trips.
Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, the show follows young Oliver Twist as he navigates life in Victorian London, meeting memorable characters like the Artful Dodger and Fagin along the way. With iconic songs, big ensemble numbers and a heartwarming story, Oliver! is perfect for multi-generational audiences.
### **Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular**
For something truly unforgettable this February half term, [*Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular*](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/musical/come-alive-the-greatest-showman-circus-spectacular-tickets) offers a thrilling live experience inspired by the hit film.
Blending circus acts, music and jaw-dropping physical performances, this immersive show celebrates imagination, spectacle and embracing what makes us unique. It’s an ideal choice for families seeking high-energy February half term events beyond traditional theatre.
## **When is February half term 2026?**
Half-term dates vary slightly depending on your local authority, but February half term typically falls in the middle of the month. Most schools are expected to break for one week between Monday 16 February and Friday 20 February 2026.
Always check your local council’s website for exact dates.
## **Half-term theatre tickets in London**
February half term is the perfect time to take advantage of family-friendly performances, school holiday schedules and popular half term shows. From Disney favourites to magical adaptations and high-energy spectacles, the West End offers something for every age group.
Looking for more ideas? Explore London’s best [February half term theatre tickets](https://www.londontheatredirect.com/tickets/family-friendly-theatre-for-children-and-adults) and make this school holiday one to remember.