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 Tuesday 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.
Tuesday evening in Reading
1
· 18:15 – 18:35
Henley Living Advent Calendar
Every evening from 1 December to Christmas Eve, a new 'window' opens somewhere in Henley-on-Thames, revealing a short surprise performance. Doors, windows and courtyards across town become stages for local musicians, choirs and community groups.
The acts are a closely guarded secret until the door opens at around 6.15pm, with everything from classical and jazz to spoken word and festive songs, each lasting about 20 minutes. Many raise money for local charities, and the finale on Christmas Eve is at St Mary's Church.
Free to watch and wonderfully festive; check the daily location before heading out.