Christmas markets, lights switch-ons, Santa's grottos, pantomimes, carol concerts and festive days out, gathered in one place. From town-centre switch-ons and craft fairs to winter light trails and steam-train Santa specials, here's what's on near you this Christmas, with dates, times and prices so you can plan the season.
The listings
1
· 16:00 – 21:00
Glow Wild at Wakehurst
Glow Wild is Wakehurst's much-loved winter lantern trail, where the woods and gardens of Kew's wild botanic garden glow with hundreds of handcrafted lanterns, light installations and illuminated trees.
The winding route leads past the Elizabethan mansion and through the woodland, with festive food, hot drinks and toasted marshmallows to enjoy along the way. It's a gentle, enchanting evening out that works beautifully for all ages.
Glow Wild runs on 31 selected nights between late November and early January. Tickets are timed and sell out quickly, so book ahead.
2
· 14:00 – 17:00
Aladdin at The Hawth
Crawley's big Christmas pantomime at The Hawth this year is Aladdin, packed with magic carpets, a mischievous genie, a wicked Abanazar and Widow Twankey stealing every scene.
It's a colourful, high-energy family show full of songs, slapstick and audience participation, perfect for a festive treat with children, grandparents and friends.
Accessible performances include a relaxed show on Saturday 12 December at 10.30am, and an audio-described, BSL-interpreted and captioned performance on Saturday 19 December at 2.30pm.