Celebrate the season with festive fun in Tewkesbury Borough
Posted on: 18 November 2025
The most magical time of the year is fast-approaching, and for those looking for genuine festive spirit, Tewkesbury Borough is the place to be. From spectacular light trails and steam trains to medieval markets and a modern panto, the area is brimming with seasonal cheer.
Tewkesbury Borough Council is encouraging residents and visitors to explore the rich mix of heritage and contemporary events on offer this winter. Here are 12 fantastic festive activities and events to discover:
Tewkesbury Christmas Market and Lights Switch-on Sunday, 23 November, from 12pm.
Get into the festive spirit on the historic streets of Tewkesbury. Enjoy over 80 stalls selling unique gifts and crafts, children’s fairground rides, street food, and live entertainment. Father Christmas is rumoured to be visiting, and the town will sparkle at 5pm with the lights switch-on, featuring the cast of The Roses Theatre’s pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk.
Bishops Cleeve Christmas Light Switch-on and Market: Saturday, 22 November, from 5.30pm.
A popular, free community event with festive activities, games, entertainment, food stalls, and a market for browsing gifts.
Winchcombe Christmas Festival: Friday, 28 November (5pm – 8pm) and Saturday, 29 November 10am – 5pm.
The picturesque town of Winchcombe hosts its Christmas festival and market with over 40 stalls, carol singing, Morris dancing, and live music.
Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime at The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury: Saturday, 29 November – Saturday, 3 January.
It wouldn’t be Christmas without panto! Join the giant-sized family adventure at The Roses Theatre. Tickets (from £20) and Family Panto details Special Adult-Only Performances (£30) are also available.
rosestheatre.org/events/jack-and-the-beanstalk
Tewkesbury Abbey Christmas Fair: Saturday, 29 November, 10am – 4pm.
One of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the region, held within the breathtaking 900-year-old Tewkesbury Abbey. Browse artisan stalls, enjoy festive food and drink, and soak up the joyful atmosphere.
tewkesburyabbey.org.uk/whats-on/
Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle & Gardens, Winchcombe: Friday, 21 November – Tuesday, 30 December.
Return to Sudeley Castle for one of the UK’s most magical winter light trails. This year’s theme, King Arthur, promises a glittering wonderland of colour, iconic installations, and awe-inspiring projections against the backdrop of the historic castle.
sudeleycastle.co.uk/events/spectacle-of-light-2025
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Santa Express family train rides: Saturday, 22 November – Tuesday, 23 December.
Departing from Cheltenham Racecourse Station, this beloved experience includes refreshments, a goody bag, festive photo opportunities, and a visit with Santa (including a gift).
gwsr.com/events/santa-express-2025
A Medieval Christmas: Living history, Tewkesbury: Saturday, 22 and Sunday, 23 November and Saturday, 6 and 7 December 10.30am-4pm.
Step back in time at The Merchant’s House (part of the John Moore Museum) to discover medieval festive traditions, food, and entertainment. Free entry.
Christmas Wreath Workshop, Tewkesbury: Friday, 28 November 10.30am – 1pm.
Get creative with Dovecote Willow at the Old Baptist Chapel. Craft a stunning, unique wreath using sustainably harvested materials. (£40pp, includes materials and refreshments).
‘Fresh!’ Exhibition and mini craft market at Nature in Art, Twigworth: Saturday, 6 and Sunday, 7 December 10am – 4.30pm.
Visit the world’s first museum dedicated to art inspired by nature. Browse the ‘Fresh!’ exhibition and a mini craft market featuring up to 12 local crafters selling unique, handmade gifts.
Christmas Candlelight Concert at Tewkesbury Abbey: Monday, 8 December.
A magical evening featuring a live band and talented singers performing festive classics by candlelight in the magnificent Abbey.
Nadia Eide presents Winter Light at Tewkesbury Abbey: Monday, 15 December.
The Voice UK 2021 finalist brings her Christmas concert tour, featuring her impressive vocal range, festive favourites, and a special guest choir.
Councillor Richard Stanley, Leader and Lead Member for Economic Development said: “We are delighted to share this fantastic line-up of festive activities, which showcases the vibrant community spirit across Tewkesbury Borough. From our bustling Christmas Market and Lights Switch-on to the magical Spectacle of Light and the laughs at The Roses Theatre panto, there is something seasonal for everyone to enjoy.
“We want to thank all our amazing attractions and retailers for putting on and supporting such a wonderful programme of events and we encourage all residents and visitors to support our local businesses and attractions this winter, helping to make the festive season memorable for families while supporting our local businesses.”
Free parking
To help our small businesses and retailers during their important sales period, Tewkesbury Borough Council has previously announced free parking at council owned car parks in Tewkesbury and Winchcombe on specific dates, beginning Sunday, 23 November for the Tewkesbury Christmas Market and Lights Switch-on.
With a spectacular range of events spanning light trails, traditional markets, heritage celebrations, and festive theatre, Tewkesbury Borough is adding extra festive sparkle to the season this winter. It’s time to consult the calendar and make time for events and activities and support the local businesses that make these events possible and create lasting memories this festive season. To plan your perfect winter day out, or to find more information on all the events listed, please visit visittewkesbury.info.
