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.
All day Saturday in Reading
1
· 10:00 – 20:00
Broad Street Christmas Market
Reading's Christmas market returns to Broad Street for seven festive weeks, with a row of wooden chalets lining the town's main shopping street beneath the Christmas lights.
Browse for gifts, decorations and seasonal treats, warm up with a hot drink and soak up the atmosphere as you shop. It opens on the same day as the town's lights switch-on, so the first weekend is especially lively.
Entry is free. Open 10am to 8pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 6pm on Sundays, from 14 November to 3 January.
Saturday afternoon in Reading
1
· 16:00 – 18:00
Reading Christmas Lights Switch-On
Reading town centre officially welcomes the festive season as the Christmas lights are switched on, on the same day the Broad Street Christmas Market opens.
Come into town for the afternoon to browse the new market chalets, then stay for the evening countdown, with the switch-on expected at around 5pm. It is a free, family-friendly occasion and a cheerful start to Christmas in Reading.
Full running order is usually confirmed closer to the day.
Saturday evening in Reading
1
· 16:00 – 18:00
Reading Christmas Lights Switch-On
Reading town centre officially welcomes the festive season as the Christmas lights are switched on, on the same day the Broad Street Christmas Market opens.
Come into town for the afternoon to browse the new market chalets, then stay for the evening countdown, with the switch-on expected at around 5pm. It is a free, family-friendly occasion and a cheerful start to Christmas in Reading.
Full running order is usually confirmed closer to the day.