With magical theatre, miles of Christmas markets, light trails and events, plus a festive drone show and an exclusive Wallace & Gromit Christmas experience, Bristol is the perfect place to celebrate – a place where everyone’s welcome!
Festive Events
A Christmas Carol Drone Light Show - NEW
19-21 December 2024
See Charles Dickens’ festive story A Christmas Carol like you never have before in this animated drone light show at Seat Unique Stadium, just off the famous independent high street, Gloucester Road in Bristol. The magical and heartwarming story of Ebenezer Scrooge will be brought to life in this creative imagination of the timeless classic, all by the futuristic magic of drones, and narrated by Matt Lucas! Food stalls with festive favourites, as well as DJs bringing music and cheer before and after the show, will help make this an unforgettable night.
Image: A Christmas Carol Drone Light Show
Wallace & Gromit: A Cracking Christmas Experience - NEW
16 November – 24 December
With Bristol-based Aardman’s feature film Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl coming to our screens this Christmas on BBC in the UK and Netflix globally, Bristol’s Cabot Circus is proud to host a brand new immersive – and festive – adventure. Wallace & Gromit: A Cracking Christmas Experience is packed with invention where you step into Wallace’s workshop to help him save Christmas with his latest gadget, the ‘Christmas-O-Matic'! Next door is the Cracking Christmas Cafe (no need to purchase a ticket for the experience, the café is open to all, including dogs, of course) where cheese sandwiches, cake, tea and puppuccinos will be served.
Bristol Christmas Village – NEW
5 December – 3 January (closed Christmas Day)
New for Bristol this year is Bristol Christmas Village in Castle Park. With classic rides like a Waltzer and Dodgems, as well as a Rollahub, a balloon ride carousel, Bungee Trampolines plus traditional games like, Curling, Elf on the Shelf, Hook a Duck, Bottle Ring Candy Cane and Husky, there is festive fun aplenty for all to enjoy, even a VR Sleigh Ride!
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/bristol-christmas-village-in-castle-park/362580301/
Find the Flock at Bristol Zoo Project - NEW
9 November – 12 January
Find twelve ewe-nique sculptures at locations across Bristol Zoo Project for a baa-rilliant festive adventure. In collaboration with Aardman, and in partnership with global art producer Wild in Art, each super-sized sculpture, standing at 160cm tall, has been individually designed by artists from across Bristol and beyond.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/find-the-flock-at-bristol-zoo-project/358356301/
Victorian Weekends at Brunel’s SS Great Britain
7-8 December
The hugely popular Victorian Christmas weekend is back at Brunel's SS Great Britain this December, with Old Father Christmas in his traditional green robes and the dockyard transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with falling snow and carol singers and actors from Ragged Victorians living history group.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/victorian-christmas-weekend-at-brunels-ss-great-britain/236254301/
Winter Wonderland at Wookey Hole
23 November – 24 December
Enjoy three magical Christmas experiences at Winter Wonderland at Wookey Hole. Explore enchanting caves lit by 100,000 lights, visit Santa's North Pole Grotto for a special gift, and enjoy a Grinch-inspired Christmas circus show in the Wookey Hole Theatre.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/winter-wonderland-at-wookey-hole/319992301/
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Image: Wookey Hole Winter Wonderland
Luxmuralis: In the Beginning at Bristol Cathedral
25-29 November
Join Bristol Cathedral for a dazzling journey of light and sound as the Cathedral architecture turns into a virtual canvas this Christmas.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/luxmuralis%3a-in-the-beginning-at-bristol-cathedral/310131301/
Christmas at Aerospace Bristol
1-23 December
Visit the Christmas Planetarium (see winter constellations and planets, and uncover the mystery of the Star of Bethlehem), explore Aerospace Bristol’s delightful Christmas Workshop and sing your favourite Carols under the last Concorde to fly at Aerospace Bristol.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/christmas-at-aerospace-bristol/362158301/
Retro-mega-mas at Wake The Tiger - NEW
9 November – 5 January
RETRO-MEGA-MAS is a nostalgic, surreal holiday celebration blending classic Christmas memories with creative twists. Explore retro installations like giant Rubik's Cubes, Mr. Frosty slushies, and singing retro-bots. Enjoy playful scenes, from floating sweets to teddy-filled trolleys, and get 20% off by booking two days ahead.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/retro-mega-mas-at-wake-the-tiger/361555301/
Christmas at We the Curious
21 December – 5 January
As well as the 200 intriguing things to do and explore across We the Curious science centre, you can also add a 3D Planetarium show and escape into the beauty of the winter night sky in the ‘Story of Stars 3D’ (age 6+). For younger ones there is a 2D space adventure show, complete with a friendly alien!
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/christmas-at-we-the-curious/362892301/
Christmas at Westonbirt
29 November – 1 December, 6-8 December, 12-15 December, 18-31 December
Westonbirt has partnered with the award-winning, internationally acclaimed light trail producers behind Christmas at Kew and Christmas at Blenheim to bring a light trail never before seen at Westonbirt, exploring trees from around the world in a new light.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/christmas-at-westonbirt-arboretum/233183301/
Festival of Light: Journey Through Time at Longleat
9 November – 5 January
Turn back the clock and travel the world at The Festival of Light this Christmas where you can explore immersive and interactive lanterns from Ice Age, Vikings, Ancient dynasties and monarchs.
Twilight Tobogganing at Mendip Activity Centre
8 November – 5 January
The ever-popular Twilight Tobogganing at Mendip Activity Centre is back where you can hire out the whole slope for you and your friends and family to enjoy a festive adventure.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/twilight-tobogganing-at-mendip-activity-centre/338653301/
Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle
22 November – 30 December
Explore this magical illuminated trail around the spellbinding grounds of Sudeley Castle, where you can meet iconic characters from the well-loved fairytale, The Sleeping Beauty.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/spectacle-of-light-at-sudeley-castle-%26-gardens/270363301/
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Image: Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light
Reindeer Trail at Tyntesfield National Trust
17 -23 December, 26-31 December
Help Father Christmas track down his 9 (wooden) reindeer who have escaped the Tyntesfield stables and are dotted around the estate.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/reindeer-trail-at-tyntesfield/360781301/
Christmas at Dyrham Park National Trust
21 November – 23 December, 26 December – 5 January
Explore Christmas through the ages at Dyrham Park this winter, from Tudor times to the 1980s. Plus performances from choirs and wreath making experiences are on offer.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/christmas-at-dyrham-park/360767301/
Fishmas Families at Bristol Aquarium
21 December – 5 January
Meet Charlie the Christmas Clownfish (Santa’s underwater representative) this Christmas and write a ‘fishmas’ letter to Santa too at Bristol Aquarium.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/fishmas-families-at-bristol-aquarium/362907301/
Christmas at Cheddar
16 November – 24 December
Deep underground, a magical transformation has taken place in Gough’s Cave at Cheddar Gorge and Caves this winter. Over various and limited dates you can explore The Elves’ South West Workshop and Father Christmas’ Grotto Experience.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/christmas-at-cheddar/360766301/
Illumination Trail at Old Down Country Park
24 November and 7 -24 December
Wander through this family friendly immersive experience of sparkling installations and mesmerising lights, surrounding you with magic and cheer.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/festive-illumination-trail-at-old-down-estate/319465301/
Christmas at Spiegeltent
28 November – 21 December
Glitter, glamour and spine-tingling artistry awaits at the festivities at Christmas at Spiegeltent this year. From family raves, Bridgerton in concert by candlelight, to Dark Side of the Moon and cabaret – there is lots to cater for all tastes.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/christmas-at-the-spiegeltent/230921301/
Image: Christmas at the Spiegeltent, credit Kidd PR
Treefest at St Mary Redcliffe Church - FREE
5-8 December
See this festive display of decorated Christmas trees in the splendid gothic church of St Mary Redcliffe, showcasing Bristol’s diverse and creative community.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/treefest-at-st-mary-redcliffe-church/236732301/
Brunelf the Scout Elf
Brunelf the Scout Elf is back for 2024, and will be appearing at locations across Bristol from 22nd November - 24th December! Snap an 'elfie' with the Scout Elf at one of the locations and tag @bristolbid and @redcliffeandtemplebid, using the hashtag #Bristolelfontheshelf, to be in with the chance of winning a £500 Love Bristol Gift Card!
Image: Brunelf, credit Under the Wing Productions
Vintage Winter Wonderland
10 November – 2 January
With fairground rides and street food stalls, Vintage Winter Wonderland is a sight to behold on Millenium Sqaure by the Harbourside. Why not go up in the big wheel to see it from above for a magical, festive vista!
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/vintage-winter-wonderland-in-millennium-square/303103301/
Christmas experience at Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park, including ice skating
30 November – 23 December
Marvel at the Christmas Nights Light Trail, get your skates on and try the Festive Ice Skating, or meet Santa in the flesh at Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park this Christmas.
Christmas Markets and shopping
Whether you enjoy picking gifts from the high street shops and designer brands in Cabot Circus, The Galleries and Bristol Shopping Quarter, or you like finding one-off products made by local creatives at markets and stalls, Bristol has you covered when it comes to Christmas shopping.
Bristol Christmas Market
1 November - 23 December
As well as 35 unique stalls full of gifts, there will be the new Christmas Express kids’ train ride and a few visits from Santa himself at this year’s Bristol Christmas Market. The Candy Factory Escape Room is set to return, and the popular Ski Gondolas can be hired for drinks packages, with new festive tipples available from the picturesque Jäger barn bar to pair with Yorkshire Pudding Wraps, Churros and other warming treats from the food stalls.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/bristol-christmas-market/3189101/
Shop Bristol in Cabot Circus
1 November – 24 December
A new pop-up store has opened in Quakers Friars this Christmas with gifts and products form over 35 local Bristol artists. Workshops and festive craft sessions will also be held, and a small tourist information point is inside for visitors to discover what’s on in Bristol.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/shop-bristol-in-cabot-circus/348172301/
Made in Bristol Gift Fair
23 November, 7 and 14 December
The much-loved Made in Bristol Gift Fair returns to Bristol Beacon this Christmas, with its carefully curated selection of the best in the south west’s community of independent designers and makers.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/made-in-bristol-gift-fair-at-bristol-beacon/300948301/
Finzels Festive Fridays
Fridays 2-16 December
Expect comforting street food and tasty local produce to take home as Christmas gifts from the likes of Bristol Dry Gin, Lost and Grounded ad Two Belly at Finzels Reach Market Festive Fridays.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/finzels-reach-christmas-market/302891301/
First Bus
Explore Bristol’s shopping scene and the local area this Christmas with First Bus. With over 50 services in and around Bristol, there are many places you can reach by bus and it means you don’t have to spend time searching for a parking space! Throughout December, 5 people can travel all day for just £10 with the West of England Group ticket. Exclusively available on the First Bus app.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/listing/first-bus/1797101/
Theatre in Bristol
Goldilocks and the Three Bears at Bristol Hippodrome
7 December – 5 January
This year’s festive extravaganza Goldilocks and the Three Bears at Bristol Hippodrome will be packed with riotous comedy, extraordinary special effects, hair-raising stunts, and awe-inspiring circus acts. Did you expect this from a Christmas pantomime? Oh no you didn’t!
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/goldilocks-and-the-three-bears-at-bristol-hippodrome/343200301/
The Little Mermaid at Bristol Old Vic
5 December – 11 January
Diev into a magical underwater kingdom this Christmas and discover how no one is too small to make a big difference – not even a little mermaid. Audio described, signed, relaxed ad captioned performances are available.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/the-little-mermaid-at-bristol-old-vic/280760301/
Notting Hell: The Greatest Love Story in the Underworld at The Wardrobe Theatre
5 December – 11 January
For something very different, try this smart, devilishly funny new mash up comedy parody from The Wardrobe Theatre. Notting Hell: The Greatest Love Story in the Underworld is sure to have you crying with laughter this Christmas.
Hansel and Gretel at Tobacco Factory Theatres
28 November – 12 January
Tobacco Factory Theatres will be transformed into a magical, mythical land for the classic Brothers Grim fairy tale Hansel and Gretel for a sweet and joyful festive theatrical experience.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/hansel-%26-gretel-at-tobacco-factory-theatres/354430301/
Treasure Island at Redgrave Theatre
23 - 29 November
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School reimagines the epic swashbuckling tale of young Jim Hawkins taking on legendary pirate Long John Silver.
https://visitbristol.co.uk/event/treasure-island-at-redgrave-theatre/355907301/
Where to see Santa in Bristol
Despite this being his busiest time of the year getting Christmas prepared in the North Pole, there are many places you can visit Santa in the flesh in and around Bristol in the run-up to the big day!
Go on a festive steam train ride and see Father Christmas at the Santa Specials at Avon Valley Railway (weekends from 23 November – 24 December). Forget sleigh rides, you can Sail with Santa with Bristol Ferry this December (7-8, 14-15 and 21-23 December) or visit him at Santa’s Grotto at The Wave inland surfing lake (7-8, 14-15 and 20-24 December). There’s a new enchanted elevator at this year’s Santa’s Grotto at The Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare (23-24 November, 30 November – 1 December, 7-8 and 14-15 December), as well as naughty elf to look out for! Or visit The Father Christmas Experience at Ashton Court Mansion (28 November – 23 December) where Father Christmas makes his entrance at the Great Hall – gifts for children and their grown-up included!
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