Winchester is a city rich in history, culture, and festivities. It is home to numerous events and festivals that attract visitors from all over the world. From the famous Hat Fair to the enchanting Christmas Market, Winchester has something for everyone.

Winchester’s calendar of festivals gets off to a great start with the Winchester Books Festival and the Winchester Chamber Music Festival.

One of the most anticipated festivals in Winchester is the Hat Fair. This vibrant street festival brings together performers, artists, and musicians from all over the world. The festival is a celebration of art, music, and street performance, and it takes place in various locations throughout the city. With free admission and a fantastic atmosphere, the Hat Fair is a must-attend event for anyone visiting Winchester.

The Winchester Food Festival also takes place in July. For 2024, the Food Festival was preceded by ‘A Taste of Winchester’ – a delicious line up of foodie events across the district.

For comedy fans, Winchester Comedy Festival is a real treat. Held at the Arc and Theatre Royal in the Autumn, this festival features top comedians.

One of the highlights of the year is the Winchester Bonfire and Fireworks. This annual event takes place around Bonfire Night in November and features a spectacular firework display and an impressively huge bonfire. Not only is it a great night out for the whole family but, as its organised by the Round Table, the event raises huge amounts of money for local charities.

Another popular festival in Winchester is the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market. This festive market is held in the shadow of the magnificent Winchester Cathedral and features over 100 stalls selling unique and handmade gifts, decorations, and delicious food and drink. With its picturesque setting, twinkling lights, and joyful atmosphere, the Christmas Market is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.

Heritage Open Days

All of the providers of culture in Winchester come together each year to showcase their venues and their activities at the annual Heritage Open Days in September. Heritage Open Days is a free ten-day festival which celebrates Winchester’s history, architecture and cultural heritage – that includes everything from old buildings, transport, gardens, open spaces, theatre, household objects, books, fashion, postcards, to food and drink!

Arts Venues

The Arc Winchester

Theatre Royal Winchester and The Arc, both on Jewry Street provide year-round programmes of mixed arts and are both frequently venues for other arts organisations and festivals in the city. The Arc also presents a world class programme of exhibitions in The Gallery and gives local artists the opportunity too for exhibition space in the City Space Gallery.

Another arts space is The Nutshell which is a hub for the creative community in Winchester, as is The Chesil Theatre which is Winchester’s leading amateur theatre, renowned for performing high quality productions, ranging from comedy to classics.


There is never a dull moment in Winchester!