This winter, North Gloucestershire is aglow with a rich array of festive events, from enchanting light trails to traditional pantomimes, perfect for families and Christmas enthusiasts seeking a peaceful yet vibrant holiday atmosphere.
One standout attraction is the Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle, running from Friday, November 21 to Tuesday, December 30. This King Arthur-themed illumination features a captivating trail through glowing gardens adorned with magical swords, mythical creatures, and spectacular projections inspired by Camelot legends. Tickets start at £19.20 and can be purchased at sudeleycastle.co.uk.
On Saturday, November 22, Bishop’s Cleeve hosts its Christmas Light Switch-On and Market from 5:30 pm, showcasing local entertainment alongside festive food and craft stalls.
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For history buffs, the Medieval Christmas: Living History event unfolds at Tewkesbury’s Merchant’s House on December 6 and 7. Re-enactors will bring medieval festive traditions to life, and entry is free. Details are available at johnmooremuseum.org.
Tewkesbury town centre bursts with festive cheer on Sunday, November 23, with its Christmas Market and Light Switch-On starting at midday. Featuring over 80 stalls, children’s rides, and live entertainment, the highlight will be the Christmas lights switch-on at 5 pm, activated by the cast of Jack and the Beanstalk.
For those wanting to create their own festive decorations, a Christmas Wreath Workshop takes place at Tewkesbury’s Old Baptist Chapel on Friday, November 28. Attendees can craft natural wreaths from willow and evergreens, with tickets priced at £40, including materials, tools, and refreshments. Book at events.liveit.io.
The Winchcombe Christmas Festival, held on November 28 and 29, features more than 40 festive stalls, delicious food, live music, and street performances in the picturesque town centre. Find out more at winchcombe.co.uk.
Steam train aficionados will enjoy the Santa Express on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway from November 22 to December 23. This festive train ride includes gifts, snacks, photos with Santa, and seasonal fun. While December dates are fully booked, November tickets from £28.50 remain available at gwsr.com.
On Saturday, November 29, the Tewkesbury Abbey Christmas Fair offers handmade crafts, food vendors, and entertainment within the historic abbey grounds.
The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury launches panto season with Jack and the Beanstalk from November 29 to January 3. Special adult-only shows also run during this period. Tickets start at £20 for families and £30 for adult-only performances. Bookings through rosestheatre.org.
Nature in Art in Twigworth presents its ‘Fresh!’ exhibition and craft market from November 25 to December 21, including a weekend mini market on December 6 and 7 featuring local artisans. Visit natureinart.org.uk for more.
Classical music lovers can attend ‘Christmas The Candlelight Concert’ at Tewkesbury Abbey on Monday, December 8, featuring live renditions of timeless festive favourites. Tickets begin at £38.75, available via Skiddle.
Finally, on Monday, December 15, Nadia Eide, a finalist from The Voice UK, performs Winter Light at Tewkesbury Abbey, accompanied by a guest choir. Tickets from £16.96 are on sale at Eventbrite.
For comprehensive details on all festive happenings across North Gloucestershire, visit www.visittewkesbury.info.