Christmas Events in Hampshire

Christmas in Hampshire sees the county comes alive with special events such as markets, theatre shows, ice rinks, carol services and delicious festive cuisine, offering a warm welcome to its residents and visitors. 

Visit Father Christmas in Hampshire

Take your little ones on a magical day out to see Father Christmas, he will be making appearences all over Hampshire in towns, cities and attractions. 

See our guide to where to see Father Christmas in Hampshire

Ice Skating in Hampshire

Take to the ice during the festive season on the Southampton, Portsmouth and Winchester ice rinks. 

See our guide to ice skating in Hampshire

Christmas in Winchester

Christmas in Winchester is known as 'England's Christmas Capital'  and comes alive from November with an exciting array of events taking place in the city centre. From the stunning lantern parade, to the famous Christmas Market and Ice Rink at Winchester Cathedral, there is lots to entertain the family. Other highlights include special festive walks around the city, christmas shopping in a number of boutique and independant shops and soaking up the pretty decorations and Christmas tree which run down the High Street.

Head to Winchester Science Centre this Christmas and meet Santa and his elves in their Christmas Invention Studio. Meet Santa at his home and take part in a science-themed toy-making workshop.
 

Christmas in Portsmouth

Head to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard at the end of November and see how people used to celebrate the festivities at the The Dickens Christmas Festival. Here you will travel back in time to bygone era, where snow Dickensian streets welcome you to festive cheer and over 100 stalls sellling christmas gifts, tipples and festive foods. 

There will be special light switch-ons taking place at Cosham, Albert Road in Southsea and the city centre throughout November. For Christmas shopping head to Gunwharf Quays home to over 90 premium retail outlet stores. .

Christmas in Southampton

Experience Southampton's German Market this winter, located in the heart of the city centre. With traditional craft stalls, festive foods and carol singers, there will be lots happening to keep visitors and locals entertained! Pop into West Quay shopping centre for any last minute presents. It enjoys extended opening hours around Christmas time.  

Christmas in East Hampshire

Enjoy yummy treats at Alton's Yuletide Festival, a traditional Christmas spectacle with children's entertainers, seasonal fare and market stalls. Or pop along to the Petersfield Christmas Festival taking place on the same day, in conjunction with Hampshire Farmers' Markets.

Top Attractions

Our top family attractions have a great range of Christmas activities for all the family over the holiday period. From festive activities at Marwell Zoo to Santa fun at the Paultons Park and the Santa Special at the Watercress Line you'll certainly not be short of things to do! 

Hampshire's Christmas Farmers' Markets

Hampshire Farmers' Markets give you the perfect chance to buy fresh, local, seasonal produce in time for Christmas Day. From delicious meat to mature cheese, fruity wine and homemade gifts, there's lots to whet the appetite.

This year special Christmas markets will be held at the following locations: Oxford Street Southampton Saturday1st December, Petersfield Sunday 2nd and Sunday 23rd December, Romsey Sunday 2nd and Sunday 23rd December, Alton Saturday 8th December, Winchester Sunday 8th December, Emsworth Saturday 15th December, Southsea Sunday 16th December and Ringwood Sunday 23rd December. 

Festive breaks in Hampshire

Make your visit to Hampshire a little longer over the festive season and stay at one of Hampshire's hotels. Book a weekend for Christmas shopping, a few days away with friends and family to enjoy some of Hampshire's festive events or a pre Christmas spa break to unwind before the festive season fully kicks in. 

If you are looking to getaway over the Christmas period and not have to cook, a number of Hampshire's hotels are offering Christmas Day and Boxing Day packages.

See guide to Hotels in Hampshire

Hampshire's self-catering properties and holiday cottages are perfect for those who are looking to spend Christmas away from home. Whether thats alone or with the whole family Hampshire has accommodation to cater for all group sizes.  

See guide to self-catering properties in Hampshire

See guide to holiday cottages in Hampshire