Christmas Places in Cheltenham

Scottish comedian Fern Brady — star of Taskmaster and author of Strong Female Character — brings her sharp, fearless stand-up to Cheltenham Town Hall for a festive live show. 7.30pm.

Forty wooden chalets line Cheltenham's elegant Promenade for the town's Christmas Market, packed with local craft makers, Christmas gifts and festive food and drink. It runs for an extended fortnight this year, so there's plenty of time to browse between the Regency terraces and the town's independent shops. From 3 to 16 December, a specially commissioned festive film is also projected onto the Municipal Offices each evening, just along the Prom.

Start the Christmas celebrations at the home of jump racing with the opening day of the Christmas Meeting. Top-quality racing runs from just after midday, with festive cheer around the enclosures, which makes it a perfect office outing or pre-Christmas get-together. Wrap up warm and enjoy the action from the stands.

Saturday of the Christmas Meeting is one of the liveliest days of the winter at Cheltenham, with high-class jump racing and a festive atmosphere right across the course. The first race goes off shortly after midday, so there's time to soak it all up in the parade ring and grandstands. A classic December day out with friends and family.

A festive night of stand-up at Cheltenham Town Hall, with a line-up of top touring comedians bringing the Christmas cheer and the laughs. 7.30pm.