Discover Gloucestershire’s Magical Christmas Lights and Trails for Family Festive Fun

Make unforgettable Christmas memories with family as Gloucestershire’s towns and villages light up for the festive season! From enchanting light trails in the Cotswolds to grand Christmas parades in Gloucester and Cheltenham, these festive events offer something for everyone.

Sparkling lights, vibrant markets, and family-friendly activities set the perfect scene for celebrating the magic of Christmas.

Whether exploring illuminated castles or gathering for Christmas carols under the stars, these events are a wonderful way to make lasting memories with loved ones this holiday season.

1. Gloucester Christmas Lights & Lantern Parade

Saturday, 16 November 2024
Gloucester kicks off the season with a festive Carol Service at Gloucester Cathedral at 4 pm, followed by the magical Lantern Parade at 4:45 pm.
The Tree of Light switch-on at Kings Square at 5:15 pm completes this family-friendly celebration, with music from the Gloucestershire Youth Wind Orchestra.

2. Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle

Selected dates, 22 November - 30 December 2024
Explore Sudeley Castle’s fairy-tale grounds, illuminated for The Sleeping Beauty trail, with festive treats like mulled wine along the way.
This 9th-year tradition is a must-see magical journey.

3. Winter Glow at the Three Counties Showground

22 November - 31 December 2024
Malvern’s Winter Glow returns with festive activities, including a personalised Santa’s Grotto, The Light Guardians Illuminated Trail, ice skating, and UV Crazy Golf.
The Christmas Market and Food Quarter complete this seasonal adventure.

4. Moreton-in-the-Marsh Christmas Lights & Market

Saturday, 23 November 2024
Moreton-in-the-Marsh welcomes Christmas with a street market, carol singing, and a visit from Father Christmas.
The Christmas lights switch on at 5 pm, creating a beautiful holiday scene.

5. Cheltenham Town Centre Christmas Launch

Saturday, 23 November 2024
Cheltenham comes alive with an afternoon of free, family-friendly entertainment, carol singing, and the Christmas Gift Market.
Performances by local choirs and street entertainers make it a festive highlight.

6. Christmas Launch Party at The Brewery Quarter, Cheltenham

Saturday, 23 November 2024
Celebrate the start of Christmas at The Brewery Quarter’s annual festive launch party, running from 2-7 pm. Enjoy a packed afternoon of live performances by Stage Coach, Danceworks, and the Lakeside Primary School Choir, along with music from a Taylor Swift tribute singer, pop star Ozma, and indie band Run Yoshi Run. Santa Claus will make hourly appearances, delighting families, while roaming princesses and entertainers add to the magic. Expect free festive crafts for children, a Grinch causing mischief, and even guaranteed snow!

7. Christmas Lights Switch-On at Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham

Saturday, 23 November 2024
Enjoy live music, children’s entertainment, and a festive market at Pittville Pump Room.
The Christmas lights switch on at 5:30 pm, along with enchanting snow showers, creating a magical atmosphere for families.

8. Tewkesbury Christmas Market & Lights

Sunday, 24 November 2024
Tewkesbury’s Festival of Lights features over 80 stalls, live entertainment, fairground rides, and a 5 pm lights switch-on.
Enjoy free parking as you soak up the festive spirit and browse local vendors.

9. Dursley Christmas Lights Switch-On

Friday, 29 November 2024
With a Victorian theme, Dursley’s Christmas celebration includes Santa’s Grotto, 6 pm lights switch-on, fairground rides, and a fireworks display, all in the heart of Parsonage Street.

10. Nailsworth Goodwill Evening

Friday, 29 November 2024
Nailsworth’s evening of Christmas cheer features a festive market, Santa’s Grotto, live entertainment, and seasonal street food.
Soak up the holiday sights, sounds, and treats with family and friends.

11. Cirencester Advent Market & Xmas Lights Switch-On

Saturday, 30 November - Sunday, 1 December 2024
Cirencester’s two-day celebration includes a market with over 200 stalls, live performances, and street entertainment.
The lights switch-on ceremony adds a festive sparkle to this vibrant town-wide event.

12. The Enchanted Garden By Night at Painswick Rococo Garden

30 November 2024 - 2 January 2025
Painswick’s Rococo Garden transforms into a twinkling wonderland with fairies, unicorns, and mythical creatures.
Seasonal treats like hot chocolates and mulled wine complete this enchanting Christmas experience.

13. Stroud Christmas Goodwill Evening

Friday, 6 December 2024
Stroud’s Goodwill Evening features late-night shopping, festive markets, and family entertainment, bringing together the community in the spirit of Christmas.

14. Winchcombe Christmas Festival

Friday, 6 December & Saturday, 7 December 2024
This two-day festival offers a magical evening with over 70 Christmas trees, market stalls, live music, and carol singing.
The Christmas Market continues Saturday, creating a merry day in the heart of Winchcombe.

15. Stonehouse Christmas Goodwill Fest

Saturday, 7 December 2024
Celebrate in Stonehouse with festive stalls, food, live music, and street entertainers.
Father Christmas will switch on the town lights, marking the official start of the holiday season.

These festive light displays and events are perfect for creating cherished holiday memories with family and friends across Gloucestershire.

From glowing trails and vibrant markets to live music and enchanting atmospheres, these Christmas events capture the season’s magic.