Christmas in Gloucestershire is set to be spectacular in 2024, with so many festive things to do for the whole family — and all the over-indulgence you could hope for!
SoGlos’s handpicked selection of Christmas events in Gloucestershire will help you make the most of the festive season in the county, from Christmas light trails and where to meet Santa to the very best pantomimes in the region. Oh yes it will!
Christmas events in Cheltenham
Christmas shows at the Everyman Theatre
What is it?
Promising an unmissable pantomime adventure this festive period, Gloucestershire's very own hometown hero Tweedy is back on stage at Cheltenham's Everyman Theatre from Friday 29 November 2024 to Sunday 12 January 2025.
Why go?
Step into a world of wonder and enchantment as Tweedy the Clown and Kevin Brewis return to feature in this year's panto, Aladdin, when they embark on a fun-filled adventure jam-packed with laughter and heartwarming moments that will captivate audiences of all ages — and there's a whopping 65 opportunities to see the Gloucestershire's famed clown on stage!
Promising a magical and timeless tale, theatre fans can expect a show packed with dazzling costumes, breathtaking set designs, and iconic musical numbers as Widow Twankey tries to control the comic chaos caused by her son, TWEEDY Twankey!
With a sprinkling of the Everyman Theatre’s must-see magic, Aladdin promises a special pantomime experience this winter, sure to be one of the highlights of Christmas 2024 for Gloucestershire families and theatre-lovers alike.
SoGlos says...
As well as the annual panto, families visiting the Everyman Theatre this Christmas can also enjoy a magical show in the intimate setting of The Irving Studio Theatre, when The Elves and The Shoemaker comes to the stage — fill your boots with foot stomping songs, silliness and festive magic.
When is it on?
Performances for Aladdin start at various times between 11am and 7pm from Friday 29 November 2024 to Sunday 12 January 2025.
How much does it cost?
Ticket prices start from £11.50.
How do I book?
Visit everymantheatre.org.uk or call (01242) 572573.
Christmas events in the Cotswolds
Christmas activities at Batsford Arboretum
What is it?
Father Christmas and his cheeky elves are returning to Batsford Arboretum this winter, bringing a festive family trail and meet Santa experiences to the attraction near Moreton-in-Marsh.
Why go?
A must-do in the run-up to Christmas, children can meet Santa Claus at Batsford's magical grotto, smiling for an 'elfie' with him and receiving a personalised gift to take home — with meet-and-greets taking place in small groups of up to six children.
The annual Big Batsford Elf Hunt is back for the season, too, with mischievous elves hiding all around the arboretum and the chance to win a prize if you can find them all!
SoGlos says...
With 60 acres of natural winter wonderland to explore, it’s not just the kids who will enjoy a day out at Batsford this Christmas either. The garden centre is packed with present ideas — not to mention real Christmas trees for sale — and there's bound to be some freshly baked festive treats in the Garden Terrace Cafe, too.
When is it on?
Visit Santa's Grotto on Saturday 7, Sunday 8, Saturday 14, Sunday 15, Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 December 2024, with 30-minute slots available to book from 10am to 3pm.
Meanwhile, The Big Batsford Elf Hunt is on daily from Saturday 30 November 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025.
How much does it cost?
The Big Batsford Elf Hunt costs £3 per participating child, in addition to Batsford Arboretum's standard admission fees. Tickets to Santa's grotto cost £10 per child.
How do I book?
Visit batsarb.co.uk/santas-grotto to book tickets to meet Santa.
There's no need to book ahead for The Big Batsford Elf Hunt but tickets to Batsford Arboretum can be booked online at batsarb.co.uk/tickets.
Christmas events at Woodchester Valley Vineyard
What is it?
An ultimate festive treat for wine lovers across Gloucestershire and beyond, the Christmas events at the glorious Woodchester Valley Vineyard are a true treat for creating magical memories alongside friends and family.
Why go?
Woodchester Valley Vineyard near Stroud is an award-winning winery that is a must-visit for days out and get-togethers all year round — but it truly outdoes itself at Christmas.
Alongside regular tours of its magnificent site, festive visitors can explore the vines throughout December at one of the many Christmas events on offer.
Creatives can book the Corking Christmas Crafternoon to make sustainable Christmas tree decorations while sipping on a flight of three delicious wines, while groups can put their knowledge to the test at the Fizz and Quiz event, with fabulous prizes to be won and plenty of bubbles to sample — nibbles and mince pies included.
The Grand Christmas Tastings return for 2024, too, with guests welcomed by Woodchester Valley founder Fiona Shiner and winemaker Jeremy Mount before moving into a tutored tasting, accompanied by a grazing platter packed with meats and cheeses.
SoGlos says...
Partial to a rich red or is a dry white more to your taste? All flavour faves are covered during the showstopping Christmas tasting session at this staple Cotswolds vineyard.
There's really nothing better than getting together with friends and family during the festive season, and gatherings are made all the better when paired with award-winning Cotswold wines — it will be your new favourite Christmas time tradition!
When is it on?
Starting with the first event on Sunday 1 December 2024, Woodchester Valley Vineyard's Christmas events kick off with the Corking Christmas Crafternoon.
Then the Christmas Grand Tasting event takes place on Sunday 15, with the Fizz and Quiz happening on Friday 27 December 2024.
Finally, the festive season at the winery comes to a close with a lovely Post-Christmas Dog Walk through the vines on New Year's Eve.
How much does it cost?
The Corking Christmas Crafternoon and the Fizz and Quiz event both cost £30 per person, with the Grand Christmas Tasting costing £60 per person.
Woodchester Valley Vineyard also runs tours throughout the year, with prices starting from £25 per person.
How do I book?
Book online via woodchestervalleyvineyard.co.uk/book-your-visit.
Christmas events in Gloucester
Christmas markets and ice rink at Gloucester Quays
What is it?
Gloucester Quays transforms into a winter wonderland throughout November and December 2024, with Christmas markets every weekend and the return of the much-anticipated open-air ice rink.
Why go?
Bringing the south west's very best crafters and artisans to Gloucester, the Christmas markets at Gloucester Quays are not to be missed. Shop for unique, handmade Christmas gifts; locally produced foodie treats; and tuck into delicious street food and a tipple or two at the multitude of pop-up food traders and bars, all against the glorious backdrop of Gloucester Docks.
Then from Saturday 23 November 2024, the anticipated open-air ice rink is back, giving visitors the chance to make magical Christmas memories as they glide, slide and pirhouette around the rink. Ideal for families and groups, there's even a Santa’s Sleigh photo booth to snap some s-elf-ies, too.
SoGlos says...
Once you're off the ice, warm up with a drink and a bite to eat from the vintage locomotive serving up tasty hotdogs, creamy hot chocolates and spiced mulled wine — or pay a visit to one of the waterfront restaurants and take full advantage of the tasty seasonal menus on offer, with everything from festive pub grub at Brewhouse & Kitchen and Portivo Lounge, traditional three-course dinners at Coal Kitchen and Bill's, Italian-inspired feasts at Zizzi and Pizza Express to steaming bowls of ramen and warming curries at Wagamama.
Plus with up to 70 per cent off retail prices at big High Street and designer names, you can pick up incredible presents from stocking fillers to showstoppers, with big savings to be had.
When is it on?
Christmas markets take place from 10am to 6pm Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday every weekend from Saturday 2 November until Sunday 15 December 2024.
The ice rink is open daily from Saturday 23 November 2024 until Sunday 5 January 2025.
How much does it cost?
Entry to Gloucester Quays Christmas markets is free.
Ice rink tickets cost from £12 for adults; from £10.50 for juniors aged 11 to 16; from £10 for children aged three to 10; and from £10 for a wheelchair user and their carer — with family tickets costing from £38.
Skate aids are also available to hire for £4 and the cloakroom costs £2.
How do I book?
There's no need to book for the Christmas markets, simply pop down to Gloucester Quays when they're open.
To book ice rink tickets, visit gloucesterquays.co.uk.
Christmas carol services and events at Gloucester Cathedral
What is it?
Gloucester Cathedral has a packed programme of inclusive Christmas services and events throughout December 2024, starting with the Advent Carol Service, running all the way up to Christmas Day and beyond.
Why go?
From traditional carol services that fill the cathedral with beautiful music, to dazzling decorations and a new Once Upon A Star: The Christmas Story family trail, there's something to enchant everyone at Gloucester Cathedral this Christmas.
The ever-popular Cathedral Experience at Night is back for 2024, with the chance to see the decorations shining bright after dark on selected dates.
There's even a day when families can meet St Nicholas and discover the origins of the real-life Father Christmas, with a special gift to take home, too!
SoGlos says...
Make your festive visit to Gloucester Cathedral a real treat, with The Monk's Kitchen serving Nativi-tea from Monday 2 until Tuesday 24 December 2024. Putting a festive twist on afternoon tea, visitors can tuck into homemade mince pies, white chocolate and cranberry fudge and mulled wine for just £18.50 per person.
Gloucester Cathedral is also collecting donations for Gloucester Foodbank between Saturday 30 November and Thursday 19 December 2024 — with a list of helpful items to donate available on its website.
When is it on?
Christmas carol services begin on Sunday 1 December 2024 and take place on various dates throughout the month until Christmas Day.
Gloucester Cathedral will be decorated for the festive season from Friday 6 December 2024, with the Once Upon a Star: The Christmas Story trail available until Sunday 5 January 2025.
Cathedral Christmas Experience at Night is on Friday 6, Saturday 7, Saturday 14, Thursday 19, Friday 20 and Saturday 21 December 2024.
Meet St Nicholas takes place during the day on Saturday 14 December 2024.
How much does it cost?
All Christmas services are free, as are the Once Upon a Star trail and Meet St Nicholas event.
Cathedral Christmas Experience at Night costs £8 for adults and £3 for children.
How do I book?
There's no need to book for Christmas services, but seating is first-come, first-served so it's advisable to arrive early.
To book tickets to Cathedral Christmas Experience at Night, visit gloucestercathedral.org.uk.
Christmas events at The Fairview Gardener
What is it?
Visit Santa in his enchanting Christmas grotto or take part in a festive carol service at The Fairview Gardener in Gloucester on various dates from Saturday 30 November to Sunday 22 December 2024.
Why go?
Get into the Christmas spirit at The Fairview Gardener this winter, offering two truly magical experiences for families to celebrate the season.
Children can meet Santa inside his cosy grotto and take part in festive crafts and activities, with a yuletide gift waiting for every lucky visitor.
And bringing even more holiday spirit, wrap up warm for a feelgood sing-along as Churcham Church brings a Christmas carol service to The Fairview Gardener for one night of traditional festive tunes.
SoGlos says...
As well as fun-filled events, the independent garden centre has a wide variety of real Christmas trees in stock, so you can round-off your festive day out with the perfect tree to take home and decorate.
When is it on?
Kicking off on Saturday 30 November 2024, Santa’s cosy grotto is open every Saturday and Sunday up to Sunday 22 December 2024, from 12pm until 3.30pm.
Carols at The Fairview Gardener takes place on Thursday 12 December 2024 at 6.30pm.
How much does it cost?
Santa’s grotto costs £8 per child.
How do I book?
There's no need to book for the grotto — just turn up on the days that Santa is in-store.
For more information, visit facebook.com/thefairviewgardener or call The Fairview Gardener on (01452) 750436.
Christmas shows and film screenings at Gloucester Guildhall
What is it?
Gloucester Guildhall has four fabulous festive shows this Christmas, with The Snowman with The Enchanted Cinema, Kid Carpet's Noisy Nativity and screenings of both Cinderella and The Nutcracker from The Royal Ballet coming this December 2024.
Why go?
Don't just watch The Snowman this Christmas, be a part of it with an interactive orchestra workshop. Families can join in with a singalong of 'Walking in the Air' and create their very own sound effects for iconic moments and characters in the story, before settling in to watch the classic film itself.
See the Christmas story like you've never seen it before, with Kid Carpet's Noisy Nativity bringing a 'radical remix' of the Nativity to the Guildhall. Described by Gloucester's Strike A Light as 'The Mighty Boosh for kids', this anarchic show provides a completely unique take on the Christmas story that's fun for every member of the family.
Or introduce little ones to the magic of the ballet, with screenings of The Royal Ballet performing Cinderella and The Nutcracker.
SoGlos says
Accessibility is important at Gloucester Guildhall so there are plenty of ways family members of all abilities can join in the fun.
As well as wheelchair access via Eastgate Street and the King's Walk car park, the Guildhall has accessible, gender neutral and gender specific toilets. There are also BSL-interpreted and relaxed performances of Kid Carpet's Noisy Nativity on selected dates.
When is it on?
The Snowman with The Enchanted Cinema takes place on Sunday 8 December 2024 with shows at 11am and 2pm.
Kid Carpet's Noisy Nativity takes place on Tuesday 10, Saturday 14, Sunday 15, Thursday 19, Saturday 21, Sunday 22 and Monday 23 December 2024 with shows at 11am, 2pm and 4pm.
The Royal Ballet: Cinderella is on Tuesday 10 at 7.15pm; and The Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker is on Tuesday 17 December 2024 at 7pm.
How much does it cost?
Tickets for The Snowman cost £9 for adults, £5 for children or £22.50 for a family.
Standard tickets for Kid Carpet's Noisy Nativity cost £12, while concessions cost £9.
Tickets for The Royal Ballet cost £15.75 for adults and £13 for under 25s.
How do I book?
Visit gloucesterguildhall.co.uk.
Fire up festive imaginations at National Waterways Museum Gloucester
What is it?
There are an array of exciting events at National Waterways Museum Gloucester to make the festive season magical for little ones. Spark their imagination with stories from Santa or tuck into an indulgent Christmas afternoon tea. There's also a chance to get on the trail of the museum's cheeky little Christmas elf.
During December, Santa will provide a 30-minute experience for little ones and their carers in a group session with other families. You can listen to Santa tell a Christmas story and then collect a present from the man himself.
During Christmas afternoon tea, you can enjoy a selection of delicious cakes, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam and unlimited tea and filter coffee.
And with Santa back at the National Waterways Museum Gloucester this December, the elves have been busy helping set up the grotto. Unfortunately, some of them have got lost in the museum's galleries and little ones with beady eyes will be best placed to spot them in any unusual hiding places!
Why go?
The museum is great value for money and the setting creates a sense of magic and wonder for little ones as well as embracing the history of the magnificent Gloucester Docks area.
There are a wonderful range of festive drinks and cakes available in the museum's tea rooms and there's a fun elf trail in the galleries, so families can relax in the warm before or after a Santa experience.
SoGlos says...
The museum is just next to Gloucester Quays Christmas ice rink, so a trip to the museum could be combined with a whizz around on your skates, to make a memorable visit to Gloucester Docks for the whole family.
When is it on?
The 30-minute Stories with Santa sessions run on Saturdays throughout December.
Elf trail is running throughout December, as is the festive afternoon tea. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm. The last day of opening is Saturday 21 December 2024.
How much does it cost?
Tickets to Stories with Santa cost £12.50 (one child and one adult) and include entry to the museum on that day. Additional adults will be able to pay for standard museum entry on the day.
The Christmas afternoon tea costs £18 per adult and you can add a child portion for £9 for under 14s.
There's no extra charge for the elf trail, which is included in the museum admission price. If you have an annual pass, you can get involved for free!
How do I book?
Book Stories with Santa tickets online at canalrivertrust.co.uk. Please ensure you arrive at least 10 minutes before your ticket time slot and leave plenty of time to park if you are driving as Gloucester Quays can get very busy during December.
For the afternoon tea tea, you need to book 48-hours in advance. Call (01452) 915676.
There's no need to book ahead for the elf trail — just turn up and join in the fun!
Christmas events in Stroud
Christmas events at The Sub Rooms
What is it?
Grab your nearest and dearest for a Christmas-cracker of a time at The Sub Rooms in Stroud, hosting a series of festive events running throughout December 2024.
Why go?
During the winter season, The Sub Rooms will be hosting a series of events with a festive twist, offering families, friends and colleagues the chance to celebrate the yuletide period in style.
Whether you're looking for a special gift, or in search of some inspiration, shoppers need look no further as The Sub Rooms' annual Goodwill Evening and Christmas market is back — visitors will find treats for loved ones including homemade jewellery, heart homeware, original artworks, vintage clothes and food.
Along with a charming Christmas market, shoppers will find live music, mulled wine, mince pies and even the chance to see the Little Art Exhibition — raising funds for the Sub Rooms whilst supporting local artists and boosting art ownership for all.
For Christmassy creatives, have fun and make a beautiful wreath for your home during The Sub Rooms wreath-making workshops. Using sustainable materials, starting with moss as the base, festive participants will gradually build up their design with seasonal foliage and flowers, making a unique work of art for their door.
SoGlos says...
It wouldn't be Christmas without a panto and this year, children and fairy tale fans are in for a treat as a festive production of Robin Hood: The Legend of Sherwood is headed to The Sub Rooms — and there are 26 opportunities to see the show!
When is it on?
Dates vary across events at The Sub Rooms.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary across events at The Sub Rooms.
How do I book?
Visit thesubrooms.co.uk or call (01453) 796880
Christmas at Cattle Country
What is it?
Cattle Country Farm Park's beloved Christmas event is back with a sack full of festive activities, from meeting Father Christmas to crafting with his elves — with all-day access to the farm park's usual attractions included.
Why go?
The Cattle Country grotto is one of Father Christmas's favourite haunts, where he offers personalised meet-and-greets complete with a gift for all visiting children.
Kids can also visit the elves' workshop for crafting activities; stop by chief elf Jingle's cabin to hear him tell an enchanting festive story; and send their Christmas list to the North Pole via express delivery, thanks to Cattle Country's super speedy post room.
Look out for family photo opportunities, s'mores toasting and a pop-up sweet shop — plus, there's a full festive menu to tuck into at the on-site GRAZE cafe.
SoGlos says...
Festive fun aside, there is so much to keep the kids busy at Cattle Country, from animal encounters to adventure play.
Don't leave without visiting its impressive indoor play barn, The Cowshed, which is decked out with a colourful multi-storey soft play tower, role play town and pedal go-kart track — and the most Insta-worthy cow print drop slides!
When is it on?
Christmas is coming to Cattle Country on selected dates between Saturday 7 to Monday 23 December 2024.
There's also a relaxed Christmas experience running on Thursday 19 December 2024, where local SEN schools, groups and families can enjoy the seasonal activities in a quieter and slower-paced setting.
How much does it cost?
Tickets cost £20 for adults and £26 for children and include all Christmas activities, plus entry to Cattle Country Farm Park from 10am to 5pm. Babes in arms go free.
How do I book?
Visit cattlecountry.co.uk/christmas to book your tickets online.
See Meet Father Christmas at Cattle Country Farm Park for more information.
Breakfast with Santa at Slimbridge Wetland Centre
What is it?
Slimbridge's annual Santa experience offers a tasty twist on the usual meet-and-greets, with not only a gift but a full English breakfast included with most ticket options.
Why go?
Santa's wonderful wetland grotto is back in business this year, as he takes up residence at Slimbridge to meet children in the run-up to Christmas. And don't worry, he has plenty of gifts to go round!
After meeting Father Christmas, head over to the Kingfisher Kitchen for a hearty full English breakfast, to fuel up for a day of exploring Slimbridge's winter wetland wonderland.
There's a host of festive activities planned to make your visit all the more magical, too — from getting involved with Christmas crafts to popping by the Slimbridge post office to send your letter off to the North Pole.
SoGlos says...
From spotting the resident otters Sam and Tilly to meeting colourful amphibians in Toad Hall, there are all kinds of fascinating exhibits to discover after meeting Father Christmas.
Seasonal highlights include watching wild bird feeds from the Peng Observatory and experiencing life as an explorer in Arctic Adventure!
When is it on?
Santa is at Slimbridge on Saturday 14, Sunday 15, Saturday 21, Sunday 22 and Monday 23 December 2024.
Time slots to meet him are available at 10am, 10.30am, 11am, 11.45am, 12.15pm, 1.45pm and 2.15pm.
How much does it cost?
Tickets including a visit to Santa's grotto, gift and full English breakfast cost £12.50 for juniors (aged four to 17) and £7 for under fours. Adult tickets also include breakfast and cost £16.50.
Children under four can meet Santa for free without a gift or breakfast. Toast, beans and orange juice can be purchased for an additional £3.
Admission to Slimbridge Wetland Centre is not included and must be purchased separately, costing from £18.95 for adults, £12.50 for juniors and free of charge for children under four.
How do I book?
Visit wwt.org.uk/slimbridge/breakfast-with-santa to book tickets.
See Santa returns to Slimbridge Wetland Centre this Christmas for more information.
Christmas events in Tewkesbury
Cinderella: The Pantomime at The Roses Theatre
What is it?
The Roses Theatre's famous pantomime is back — oh yes it is! With Cinderella taking to the stage in Tewkesbury this Christmas 2024.
Why go?
There's a reason why The Roses Theatre's pantomime has a cult following in Gloucestershire! Promising a hilarious and original take on the enduring Cinderella story, full of laugh-out-loud jokes, local references, extravagant costumes and catchy musical numbers, it's one of the highlights of the festive season.
With a talented cast to bring the story to life — and plenty of audience participation — guests are invited to help the Prince find his true love before the clock strikes 12 in this enchanting show which is bound to have the whole family in stitches.
There are a variety of show times throughout the run, with morning, afternoon and evening performances to accommodate even the busiest festive schedules — and children under three can see the show for free when sitting on an adult's lap.
SoGlos says...
It's not just kids that get to have all the fun this Christmas, as The Roses Theatre is also hosting an adults-only version of Cinderella on selected Friday and Saturday nights during December.
From dirty jokes and f-bombs galore, to hilarious ad libs and improv from Cinderella's talented cast, enjoy the panto like you've never seen it before in this raucous rendition of the classic fairytale that's strictly for grown-ups.
When is it on?
From Saturday 30 November 2024 until Saturday 4 January 2025.
How much does it cost?
Tickets cost from £21 each.
How do I book?
Visit rosestheatre.org/events/cinderella.
Christmas events beyond the border
Festive activities at Winter Glow at Three Counties Showground
What is it?
This year's Winter Glow festivities bring a true winter wonderland to the Three Counties Showground in Malvern, with a wealth of activities and festive favourites to enjoy in preparation for the big day — and thereafter, too!
Why go?
For starters, you'll find the largest covered ice skating rink to be found in the West Midlands, so kids and adults alike can test out their skills on the blades while bopping along to Christmas hits, beneath twinkling lights and giant snowflakes.
Then tick a visit to Santa off the list — dogs included — before browsing the big man's toy workshop and the missus' bakery for sweet treats.
If you're looking to add extra sparkle to your Insta grid, there's also plenty of light displays presenting glittering photo opportunities, including a Christmas light trail that's bigger and better than ever, alongside an 18-hole glow-in-the-dark crazy golf course.
SoGlos says...
Out of all the places to see Santa on his tour of the county, his residency at Winter Glow makes him extra jolly — so much that he personalises every visit to each child, working with his two elves, Tinker Toymaker and Frosty Wanderer, to make each experience magical.
Plus, as well as Santa Paws — the dog-friendly Santa experience — Winter Glow is home to the only light trail in the region to welcome furry pals to join in the merriment!
When is it on?
Winter Glow is running from Friday 22 November until Tuesday 31 December 2024, with each experience following their own time schedules.
How much does it cost?
Ticket prices for Winter Glow 2024 range depending on the experience — see the Winter Glow website for full details.
How do I book?
Visit winterglow.co.uk/tickets.
