Christmas in Cheltenham: Ice Skating, Markets, Festive Lights 2024

Christmas Markets, Festive Lights and Ice Skating Fun this Christmas in Cheltenham
As winter approaches and the nights draw in, Cheltenham transforms into a festive wonderland. Christmas in Cheltenham promises magical experiences, from festive lights and markets to the highly anticipated covered ice rink in Imperial Garden. Perfect for family fun, the rink runs from 29 November 2024 to 5 January 2025 and offers ice skating fun this Christmas in Cheltenham for all ages.
On 23 November, Cheltenham will come alive with Christmas lights and free festivities, including The Brewery Quarter's Christmas Launch Party and Pittville Pump Room’s Christmas Lights Switch On. Stroll through Cheltenham’s charming streets lit up by thousands of twinkling lights, and enjoy the delicious offerings from the town’s renowned restaurants.
Christmas in Gloucestershire is incomplete without exploring Cheltenham’s famous Christmas markets. From the Christmas Gift Market on the historic Promenade (21–24 November) to the Arts & Crafts Christmas Market (12–22 December), visitors can shop for unique gifts, homewares, and festive treats. Do not miss Suffolk’s Christmas Market on 24 November, with its local artisan stalls, carol singing, and a visit from Father Christmas.

Christmas in Cheltenham - Explore the festive Christmas Markets in Gloucestershire
Known as The Festival Town, Cheltenham offers a range of festive entertainment. Families can enjoy The Everyman Theatre’s Aladdin, or head to The Playhouse Theatre for Jack & The Beanstalk. Cheltenham’s impressive Town Hall will bring The Gruffalo and the classic film The Snowman to life, with the help of the Mozart Symphony Orchestra, in this beloved family-friendly live performance that has become a festive highlight for many. Experience the magical Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle from 22 November to 30 December, this year with a special Sleeping Beauty theme, as you sip mulled wine and explore the enchanted Christmas light trail.
The Christmas Meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse on 13 and 14 December adds a thrilling sporting element, while the New Year’s Day Raceday promises family-friendly fun and fresh air.
For more ideas on things to do this Christmas in Cheltenham and Christmas in Gloucestershire, including where to stay and dine, visit Christmas in Gloucestershire.

Enjoy Ice Skating in Cheltenham as Tweedy the Clown did last Christmas in Cheltenham!
Christmas Highlights in Cheltenham in 2024
- 21 - 24 November: Christmas Gift Market on Cheltenham’s Promenade
- 22 November – 30 December: Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle
- 23 November: Free Christmas launch events around Cheltenham, including The Brewery Quarter’s Christmas Launch Party
- 23 November – 23 December (various dates): Santa Express with GWSR
- 24 November: The Suffolk Christmas Market
- 29 November – 4 January: The Elves and the Shoemaker at The Everyman Theatre
- 29 November – 5 January: Cheltenham Indoor Ice Skating Rink
- 29 November – 12 January: Aladdin pantomime at The Everyman Theatre
- 5 December: Howlers Comedy Club Christmas Special
- 5 December – 4 January: Sherlock Holmes and a Christmas Mystery at The Everyman Theatre
- 11 December: Festive comedy featuring Sara Pascoe at Cheltenham Town Hall
- 12 – 22 December: Cheltenham Arts & Crafts Christmas Market
- 13 December – 5 January: Jack & The Beanstalk panto at The Playhouse Theatre
- 13 and 14 December: The Christmas Meeting at Cheltenham Racecourse
- 23 December: The Snowman & The Gruffalo at Cheltenham Town Hall
- 1 January: New Year’s Day Raceday at Cheltenham Racecourse
Lots more festive entertainment can be found on our CHRISTMAS IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE seasonal special!
Explore Gloucestershire
4 October 2024
For further information.
- Also see : Christmas in Cheltenham
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