Colchester Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Colchester's High Street and surrounding squares transform into a festive wonderland for their annual Christmas Markets. Visitors can enjoy live music, street performers, and a funfair, alongside a wide array of gifts and seasonal treats from local traders. Santa Claus will also be making an appearance, adding to the holiday...

Experience a magical Christmas Open Evening at Colchester Castle, offering a festive atmosphere and a journey through over 2,000 years of history. Enjoy seasonal refreshments and the chance to meet Father Christmas for a special gift. This free event is perfect for all ages to get into the holiday spirit.

Poplar Nurseries transforms into a festive wonderland for Christmas 2025. They are busy preparing a magical experience with a dedicated Christmas Showroom, a dazzling array of decorations and lights, and a special Christmas Food Hall. Visitors can look forward to 'Breakfast with Santa' events and a wide selection of gifts...

Discover the ultimate Christmas shopping experience at the Essex County Christmas Fair, held at the picturesque Braxted Park Estate. Browse over 150 stalls brimming with handcrafted items, unique gifts, artisan food and drink, and festive decorations. Enjoy live music daily, captivating LED performers, and roaming Father Christmas for memorable photos....

Discover the magic of the Suffolk County Christmas Fair, East Anglia's premier holiday shopping destination. Browse over 150 stalls brimming with unique gifts, handcrafted treasures, and delicious artisan food and drink. Enjoy live entertainment, festive performers, and a magical atmosphere set within the stunning grounds of Hintlesham Hall. It's the...

Experience the magic of the Lavenham Two Day Christmas Craft Market, a festive event featuring a curated selection of the finest handmade crafts and artisanal goods. On Saturday, browse unique creations and enjoy delicious treats from the Pop Up Cafe. Sunday brings the award-winning Lavenham Farmers Market alongside the crafters,...

Discover a season of festive cheer in Ipswich with a variety of Christmas events. From dazzling light displays and spectacular fireworks to charming Christmas markets, there's something for everyone. Experience the magic of the Christmas Lights Switch-On and explore unique gifts and seasonal treats at the Town Hall Christmas Fayre...

Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and seasonal decorations at the Chelmsford Cathedral Christmas Market. Browse artisanal stalls featuring jewelry, textiles, and gourmet food items, all set against the backdrop of the Cathedral's stunning architecture and a twinkling Christmas tree. Enjoy a moment of festive cheer with refreshments at the pop-up cafe.

Embark on a truly magical Christmas journey at Marsh Farm's Father Christmas Experience. This enchanting adventure includes a guided tour to the North Pole, where you'll become an honorary elf, meet Mother Christmas, and visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Children can create their own teddy bear and receive a...

Experience the magic of the Haverhill Christmas Carnival, a festive celebration featuring a spectacular parade with music and dancing, a vibrant craft fair with unique gifts, and a lively maker's market. The event culminates with a dazzling Christmas lights switch-on and a breathtaking fireworks display.

Experience the magic of the Rochford Christmas Festival on December 7, 2025. This festive event in Back Lane Car Park features a bustling market with 24 covered stalls, offering a chance to discover unique products and services. The festival culminates with the town's Christmas Lights Switch-on, accompanied by carol singing,...

Discover unique handmade treasures and unusual gifts at the Haverhill Christmas Maker's Market. This festive event brings together local craft makers and creators along Haverhill High Street and Queen's Street, offering a perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind presents and support local artisans.

Discover unique handmade treasures at the Haverhill Christmas Maker's Market. This festive event brings together local craft makers and creators of unusual gifts along Haverhill High Street and Queen's Street. It's the perfect opportunity to find one-of-a-kind presents and support local talent.

Get ready for a spectacular all-star festive comedy show in Colchester! Headlined by the brilliant Sam Campbell, this event features a dazzling lineup of top comedians including Bridget Christie, Maisie Adam, and Tom Rosenthal. It's the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with laughter and entertainment.

Embark on a magical journey to Neverland with The Magical Adventures of Peter Pan pantomime. Follow Peter, Tink, and their friends as they face the notorious Captain Hook. This production features live music, dazzling dance routines, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes, and amazing 3D effects, promising an unforgettable experience for the...

This Christmas, prepare for a swashbuckling adult pantomime adventure with 'The Naughty Adventures of Peter Pan' at The Princes Theatre. Join Peter Pan and Tink as they journey through Neverland, encountering pirates, fairies, and the notorious Captain Hook. The show promises great songs from a live band, dazzling dance routines,...

Get ready for Ipswich's beloved Rock 'n' Roll panto, 'Beauty and the Beast'! This spectacular festive show brings the classic tale to life with hilarious adventure, audience participation, and a live band playing all your favorite rock and pop hits. Follow Belle and her feathered friend Pigeon as they uncover...

Experience the enchantment of 'Christmas – The Candlelight Concert,' a festive musical celebration presented by Xperience Live. This magical evening features incredible singers and a live band performing beloved classic Christmas songs with a fresh take. As familiar melodies fill the air, join in for a heart-warming concert illuminated by...

Get ready for a magical Christmas with 'Sleeping Beauty: The Christmas Pantomime' at the Spa Pavilion. This beloved fairy tale is brought to life with all the humor, music, and spectacle that makes pantomime a cherished holiday tradition. Join them for a festive adventure filled with laughter and enchantment.

Embark on a magical journey with Rapunzel as she escapes her tower in pursuit of a legendary Golden Tulip. This enchanting pantomime promises a delightful blend of magic, mayhem, and plenty of sheep! Perfect for all ages, it's a festive holiday spectacle brought to life by the acclaimed Theatre Royal.

Experience the enchantment of a Viennese Christmas with a spectacular concert featuring timeless melodies. Delight in the lively overtures and polkas of Johann Strauss, the romantic allure of Tchaikovsky's waltzes and suites, and the vibrant rhythms of Brahms. This symphonic feast promises to fill your heart with holiday joy.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with 'Christmas with The Cathedral Choir' at St Edmundsbury Cathedral. This special event features the acclaimed Cathedral Choir performing a selection of beloved Christmas carols and seasonal music. Experience the breathtaking acoustics and magnificent architecture of the cathedral as you enjoy an evening of...

Step into a winter wonderland at Colchester Zoo's Enchanted Trail of Light. Wander through a magical 1-mile route adorned with over 20,000 lights, including a stunning new 40-meter light tunnel. Enjoy dancing fountains, a festive road train, and enchanting animal sculptures. Special appearances by a North Pole guest add to...

Experience the magic of the Starlight Grotto at Colchester Castle this December. Step into a beautifully illuminated festive setting where candlelight creates a cozy and enchanting atmosphere. Children can share their Christmas wishes with Father Christmas and receive a special gift, while families enjoy warm drinks and festive treats. It's...

Experience the magic of Sudbury's Christmas Light Switch On & Fair in 2025! This festive event transforms the town center with dazzling lights, a bustling market, and lively entertainment. Discover unique handmade gifts, savor delicious hot food and drinks, and enjoy funfair rides and games. Don't miss the chance to...

Step into an enchanted world at RHS Hyde Hall's Glow 2025, a magical winter event transforming the garden into a dazzling spectacle of light and colour. Explore new installations, iconic sculptures, and a breathtaking lights show on the lake, all set against a festive backdrop. It's the perfect enchanting experience...

Step into a world of sparkle and wonder at Call of the Wild Zoo's 'Glowing Wild' light trail this December. Follow enchanting pathways illuminated by dazzling displays and glowing animal enclosures. Meet Father Christmas in his grotto, decorate gingerbread with Mrs. Claus, and create reindeer food. It's a truly magical...

Step into an enchanted world at Talliston House & Gardens for their Faerie Tale Christmas. The entire estate is transformed with dazzling decorations, candles, and festive cheer. Explore thirteen uniquely themed rooms and enjoy a magical candlelit tea or a festive evening feast, all part of an upgraded experience for...

Step into a world of enchantment at Hylands Estate for the 'Enlightened' Christmas light trail. This immersive outdoor experience guides visitors along a magical 1-mile path, illuminated by stunning, newly designed light installations for 2025. Interactive displays and an enchanting soundscape create a truly captivating atmosphere, making it a must-see...

Experience the magic of the Bury St Edmunds Christmas Lights Event, a festive celebration marking the start of the holiday season. Wander through charming craft and gift stalls, enjoy live performances, and delight in the appearance of beloved characters like the Snow Queen and Santa Claus. This event is a...

Celebrate the festive season at Benton Hall's Christmas Party Nights. Guests can anticipate a delightful evening featuring a welcome drink, a three-course festive meal, and a lively DJ and disco until midnight. It's the perfect setting for intimate gatherings, family reunions, or corporate celebrations.

Celebrate the holiday season in style at Holiday Inn Ipswich's Christmas events. They offer unforgettable Dinner & Dance Party Nights with delicious food and a DJ, perfect for friends, family, or colleagues. For a more personal touch, host a private Christmas party in a beautifully festive setting. They also cater...

Holiday Inn Southend transforms into a festive wonderland, offering a variety of Christmas celebrations. They host all-inclusive party nights with unlimited drinks, and can also cater to exclusive festive events. Guests can enjoy special festive lunches with scenic views, delightful evening meals, and a grand New Year's Eve party to...

Colchester Castle Museum invites nursery and preschool groups to its enchanting Tiny Tots Nursery Grotto in December 2025. This special event offers young children aged five and under a calm and welcoming opportunity to meet Father Christmas. Alongside their visit, little ones can enjoy festive storytelling, sing-alongs, and playful activities...

Unleash your creativity this festive season at the Air Dry Clay Decorations workshop. Led by ceramic artist Lizzie Croucher, this fun, hands-on session teaches simple techniques for shaping and decorating clay. Children can craft stars, trees, or entirely unique holiday ornaments to take home and personalize, creating cherished keepsakes or...

Firstsite in Colchester invites visitors to celebrate the festive season with a diverse array of creative and community-focused experiences. From hands-on workshops and seasonal cinema screenings to artisan craft markets and family activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Discover unique gifts at the Firstsite Shop and immerse yourself in...

Colchester Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland for their 'Magic of Christmas' event. Visitors can enjoy the zoo's animal residents during regular hours, with special festive activities planned. For an even more enchanting experience, the 'Enchanted Trail of Light' offers a separate, ticketed evening walk filled with dazzling illuminations.

Colchester Castle invites families to its enchanting grotto for a magical encounter with Father Christmas in 2025. Children can share their Christmas wishes, receive a special festive gift, and create lasting memories. This special event offers a delightful start to the holiday season.

Get into the holiday spirit by crafting your own festive Christmas wreath. These hands-on workshops guide you through creating a beautiful 12-inch moss-based wreath, which you can then personalize with an array of dried fruits, cinnamon sticks, pinecones, baubles, and ribbons. Enjoy a celebratory glass of fizz and mince pies...

Experience the magic of the holiday season with a 'Breakfast with Santa' event. This popular, sell-out experience offers a delightful cooked breakfast, engaging games, and interactive table activities. Children will have the chance to meet Santa Claus, receive a special gift, and create lasting holiday memories.

Step into a festive evening at The Vie Clinics Red Carpet Christmas Launch. This special event offers a unique blend of beauty, innovation, and holiday spirit. Attendees can enjoy exclusive offers and witness live demonstrations, all within a celebratory atmosphere.

Get into the holiday spirit at Adventure Island's Christmas Experience! Meet Father Christmas and receive a special toy, plus enjoy a free child's meal, a round of golf, and arcade credits. This festive event offers a magical day out for the whole family with seasonal entertainment and crafts.