Discover a calendar packed with Christmas events to get you in the festive spirit
The 2024 festive season is kicking off with some fantastic events that can’t be missed. Soak up the atmosphere of the city at Christmas with a spectacular light switch-on, a world-renowned Christmas Market and annual traditions enjoyed by locals and visitors alike… It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Winchester!
Christmas Lights Switch On
Kickstarting the festive season in Winchester, the annual Christmas Lights Switch On takes place on Thursday 14 November on The Broadway. This sensational event, organised by Winchester BID and hosted by Heart Radio, promises an evening full of festive fun. Winchester Round Table’s Santa’s Sleigh will make its way through the city, while live performances take place on The Broadway.
Be sure to visit the Giant Inflatable Snow Globe in The Square and take a photo under the flurries. You can finish your day outside the Guildhall, where the Winchester Christmas lights will be switched on by local heroes nominated by the public. It is the perfect way to begin the countdown to Christmas!
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
Taking place from 22 November until 22 December, Winchester Cathedral's Christmas Market is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, stunning location and handpicked high-quality exhibitors.
The wooden chalets, nestled in the cathedral grounds, are inspired by traditional German Christmas Markets. Combined with the festive lighting, the sound of Christmas carols and the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon drifting in the air, visitors will be transported into a festive setting to purchase their Christmas gifts and take in the atmosphere.
Lantern Parade
The annual lantern parade returns to Winchester Cathedral, and this year’s theme is Christmas Creatures. Parade from Winchester Cathedral through Winchester with your lanterns and light the way back to the cathedral where The Very Revd Catherine Ogle Dean of Winchester will pick three favourites from her evening of judging, with a prize for all winners. Dean Catherine’s favourite lantern creator will help to switch on the Cathedral lights at the end of the parade.
Whether you have a lantern of your own or simply want to soak up the atmosphere, come together to celebrate with music, light, and the Christmas Market at night. This weird and wonderful Winchester tradition is not to be missed.
Winchester Santa Fun Run
Winchester Santa Fun Run returns to Winchester for its 16th year. On 1 December, hundreds of Santas will descend on the streets to take on a 2 or 5k run around the historic city, passing some of Winchester’s most famous attractions, including the King Alfred Statue and Winchester Cathedral. The runners will finish in a flurry of snow outside the Guildhall, before collecting their finishers prize!
Tickets can be purchased here, and all proceeds are in aid of Naomi House & Jacksplace, a local children and young adults hospices based in Sutton Scotney. They provide outstanding care and support to the most medically complex children and young adults across central southern England. Your support will help them to continue making precious memories for the families in their care.
