From magical family events and artisan markets to live music, festive workshops and unforgettable nights out, our Season of Joy is packed with opportunities to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year across our venues.

Whether you’re looking for festive family fun, Christmas shopping, seasonal treats or a special evening with friends, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Celebrate the Start of Christmas at Pittville Pump Room

The festivities begin with a spectacular weekend of Christmas celebrations at the beautiful Pittville Pump Room.

Browse artisan market stalls filled with unique gifts, local produce and handmade crafts, soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy seasonal food and drink in one of Cheltenham’s most iconic settings.

The weekend starts with a special evening market on Friday 27 November, featuring independent makers, festive refreshments and live music, before a family-friendly Christmas market takes place on Sunday 29 November.

At the heart of the celebrations is our Christmas Lights Switch-On Extravaganza on Saturday 28 November, from 1pm to 7pm.

This free community event will feature festive crafts, face painting, opportunities to meet Santa, delicious food and drink, and an exciting programme of live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy choirs, dance performances, community groups and appearances from the cast of the Cheltenham Playhouse pantomime, before the celebrations continue after the big switch-on with a foam party hosted by Party Peeps.

Jessica Brewster, CEO of The Cheltenham Trust, said:

“Our Season of Joy is all about bringing people together and creating special memories. We’ve put together a festive programme that offers something for everyone, whether you’re visiting with family, catching up with friends or simply looking to enjoy the magic of Christmas in Cheltenham.

“This year’s Christmas Lights Switch-On and festive markets are bigger than ever, and we can’t wait to welcome the community to celebrate with us.”

Festive Nights Out at Cheltenham Town Hall

Cheltenham Town Hall will host a fantastic line-up of entertainment throughout the festive season.

One of this year’s highlights is Marvin Humes’ Noughties Baby, promising a nostalgic night filled with the biggest hits and memories from the 2000s.

There are also plenty of festive concerts to enjoy, including Down for the Count Swing Orchestra, Step Into Christmas and The Best of Bublé.

For comedy lovers, there’s the much-loved Fawlty Towers Comedy Dining Experience, alongside performances from Russell Kane and Marcus Brigstocke as part of our Christmas Cracker programme.

Magical Family Shows

Families can enjoy a range of festive productions throughout the season, including The Snowman in Concert and Dear Santa, based on Rod Campbell’s beloved children’s book.

These enchanting family shows are perfect for making magical Christmas memories together.

Keep the Celebration Going with the Regency Roller Rink

The festive fun doesn’t stop after Christmas Day.

From 28 to 30 December, Cheltenham Town Hall will once again be transformed into the Regency Roller Rink, offering a fun-filled Twixmas activity for families, friends and skaters of all ages.

Get Creative This Christmas

At The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum, visitors can embrace their creative side with a range of festive workshops and activities.

Make your own seasonal decorations during the Winter Wreath Making Workshop, enjoy hands-on festive crafting at the Family Christmas Party, or discover how Victorian traditions shaped the Christmas celebrations we know and love today during a special Home Educators Workshop.

Meanwhile, Leisure at Cheltenham will host its Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree Party on 19 December, complete with games, crafts, a bouncy castle and a very special surprise guest. Dedicated SEND sessions will also ensure that everyone can join in the festive fun.

Join Us This Christmas

From sparkling lights and festive markets to family adventures, creative workshops and unforgettable nights out, our Season of Joy promises a Christmas to remember.

We can’t wait to celebrate with you.

Explore the full Christmas programme and book tickets online today – click here.