Cheltenham Counts Down to Christmas

With snow in the air and the nights drawing in, Cheltenham is embracing the Christmas season with festive events running from November through to the big day.  Grab a glass of mulled wine, and discover everything Cheltenham has to offer, from artisan Christmas markets and impressive light shows to ice skating in the gardens and classic pantomimes at the Everyman Theatre. 

Here are the top festive things to do in Cheltenham this Christmas season! 

Kick off Christmas with the Annual Light Switch-On 

On Saturday, 22nd November, Cheltenham will host the annual Christmas Lights switch-on events at both Pittville Pump Rooms and The Brewery Quarter. Festive activities, including live music, face painting and circus entertainment, will commence at 2 pm, and the light switch-on will take place at 17:30.

Spin and swirl at the Cheltenham Ice Rink 

The magical Ice Skating Rink returns to Cheltenham’s Imperial Gardens from 22nd November to 4th January.  Offering a variety of daily booking slots, including SEND-appropriate, adult-only, and late-night sessions, this real ice skating rink is perfect for a fun family day out or an evening with friends! An on-site cafe serves hot drinks to warm you up after your time on the ice. 

Stroll through Suedely’s Spectacle of Light

The Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle is a magical, after-dark light trail that transforms the castle’s gardens into a glowing winter wonderland. Taking on a new theme each year, this year’s light show will bring the world of King Arthur and Merlin to life. Running from 21 November to 30 December 2025, visitors can follow an illuminated path through the historic grounds while sipping hot drinks and mulled wine served on-site.

Browse the Christmas Markets

The Promenade 

Running in two stages during the season, the Christmas Gift Market (20–23 November) offers a charming selection of homeware, seasonal treats and gourmet food, while the Arts & Crafts Market (11–23 December) showcases the talents of local makers, with stalls selling handmade jewellery, glassware, candles and original artwork.

The Suffolks 

The Suffolks Christmas Market (held in the charming Suffolk Parade and Great Norwood Street area of Cheltenham) is a festive highlight designed around local, independent traders. On Sunday 30 November 2025, more than 90 stalls will be open, offering a curated mix of arts & crafts, vintage finds, designer pieces, and foodie treats. Visitors can soak up a warm community atmosphere, listen to carol singing, enjoy live entertainment, try street food, sip mulled wine, and even meet Father Christmas.

Play ‘He’s behind you!’ at the Panto 

This Christmas (2025), Cheltenham will be alive with pantomime magic. At the Everyman Theatre, the show is Robin Hood and His Merry Men, running from 28 November 2025 to 11 January 2026. The production brings back beloved panto favourites: Tweedy the Clown returns as Friar Tuck, joined by Kevin Brewis as the dame and Kane Verrall playing Will Scarlett. Directed and written by Sam Holmes and Nick Winston, the show promises big laughs, dazzling dance numbers, and plenty of audience participation.

Meanwhile, over at Cheltenham Playhouse, you can catch Dick Whittington from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. Expect classic panto silliness, show-stopping songs, and a heartwarming tale of ambition, friendship and festive fun. 

Late-night Shopping

Every Thursday from 29th November to 20th December, Cheltenham’s shops will remain open until approximately 9:30 pm. These extended hours offer the perfect opportunity to soak up Cheltenham’s festive atmosphere while browsing for holiday gifts. Take advantage of free evening parking after 5:30 pm in both Regent Arcade and Town Centre East car parks.