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.
Saturday morning in Gloucester
1
· 10:00 – 18:00
Gloucester Quays Christmas Markets
Every weekend from 7 November to 20 December, more than 120 traders fill wooden chalets across Gloucester Quays and the historic docks. Browse festive gifts and South West crafts, graze on street food and warm up at the pop-up bars. With the open-air ice rink nearby, it's Gloucester's go-to festive day out.
2
· 11:00 – 16:00
Curious Bazaar: Alternative Christmas Market
Tired of plastic baubles and manic high-street crowds? Curious Bazaar fills the medieval surroundings of Llanthony Secunda Priory with twisted tinsel, handmade magic and festive wonder with a shadowy edge. It's the place for gothic gifts, quirky crafts and treats you won't find anywhere else.
Saturday afternoon in Gloucester
1
· 10:00 – 18:00
Gloucester Quays Christmas Markets
Every weekend from 7 November to 20 December, more than 120 traders fill wooden chalets across Gloucester Quays and the historic docks. Browse festive gifts and South West crafts, graze on street food and warm up at the pop-up bars. With the open-air ice rink nearby, it's Gloucester's go-to festive day out.
2
· 11:00 – 16:00
Curious Bazaar: Alternative Christmas Market
Tired of plastic baubles and manic high-street crowds? Curious Bazaar fills the medieval surroundings of Llanthony Secunda Priory with twisted tinsel, handmade magic and festive wonder with a shadowy edge. It's the place for gothic gifts, quirky crafts and treats you won't find anywhere else.
3
· 16:00 – 17:40
Gloucester Lantern Parade
Magical maritime-themed lanterns made by local schools and community groups light up the city centre, looking ahead to the Docks' 200th anniversary in 2027. A carol service at the Cathedral from 4pm is followed by the parade setting off from College Green at 4:50pm through the Gate Streets. It's free, joyful and one of the loveliest nights of the Gloucester year.
4
· 16:00 – 18:30
Gloucester Tree of Light Switch-On
Gloucester's Christmas officially begins in Kings Square with music and entertainment hosted by BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Jon Smith, including The Salvation Army Band. The Tree of Light switch-on happens at 5:45pm, with festivities continuing until 6:30pm. Pair it with the Lantern Parade the same evening for a perfect festive night out.
Saturday evening in Gloucester
1
· 10:00 – 18:00
Gloucester Quays Christmas Markets
Every weekend from 7 November to 20 December, more than 120 traders fill wooden chalets across Gloucester Quays and the historic docks. Browse festive gifts and South West crafts, graze on street food and warm up at the pop-up bars. With the open-air ice rink nearby, it's Gloucester's go-to festive day out.
2
· 16:00 – 17:40
Gloucester Lantern Parade
Magical maritime-themed lanterns made by local schools and community groups light up the city centre, looking ahead to the Docks' 200th anniversary in 2027. A carol service at the Cathedral from 4pm is followed by the parade setting off from College Green at 4:50pm through the Gate Streets. It's free, joyful and one of the loveliest nights of the Gloucester year.
3
· 16:00 – 18:30
Gloucester Tree of Light Switch-On
Gloucester's Christmas officially begins in Kings Square with music and entertainment hosted by BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Jon Smith, including The Salvation Army Band. The Tree of Light switch-on happens at 5:45pm, with festivities continuing until 6:30pm. Pair it with the Lantern Parade the same evening for a perfect festive night out.