While Cheltenham isn't having an official Christmas lights switch on in 2022, residents and visitors still have plenty of opportunities to see shining lights and enjoy free festive entertainment as the town gets Christmas off to a sparkling start.
The launch of Christmas in Cheltenham on Saturday 19 November 2022 will see 15-minute street performances from adorable toy soldiers and sugar mice, taking place at Cambray Place, Imperial Gardens and Cheltenham High Street near M&S between 5pm and 7pm, with the Christmas lights set to come on at dusk.
While on the same day over at The Brewery Quarter, families can enjoy an afternoon and evening of free family entertainment, live Christmas music and an appearance from Father Christmas himself under its own glowing lights at its Christmas Begins at The Brewery Quarter event.
There's also a Christmas Craft Market on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 November 2022 to coincide with the launch of Christmas in Cheltenham, before the brand-new Cheltenham Christmas market takes over the Promenade and Long Gardens from Thursday 8 to Saturday 24 December 2022.
A little outside of the town centre, Pittville Pump Room switches on its Christmas lights on Saturday 26 November 2022, with festive entertainment, the Artisan Christmas Market and appearances from Disney's Frozen characters, with Santa making a very special visit on his sleigh, too.
Cheltenham also has a brand-new Nutcracker Trail across the town centre from Saturday 19 November until Friday 30 December 2022, with a chance to win a £100 Cheltenham gift card if you can find them all.
Shopping centres are getting into the festive spirit as well, with decorations up at Regent Arcade; Father Christmas's Naughty or Nice Machine in store on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 November 2022; and The Grinch stalking the centre spreading his miserable charm on Saturday 3 December 2022.
For more festive events taking place across the town, check out SoGlos's pick of 19 fun festive things to do in Cheltenham this Christmas.
