on Nov 12 2025

Christmas Lights and Illuminations in Windsor and Maidenhead

In VisitWindsor Loves, christmas, winter

Discover the Royal Borough at its most majestic and magical this festive season. From sparkling streets and lantern parades to dazzling light trails and cutting-edge captivating drone shows, Windsor, Maidenhead and Eton offer unique and unforgettable experiences for visitors seeking festive cheer. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a short Christmas break, immerse yourself in the glow of lights, enjoy seasonal menus in our restaurants and explore unique shopping opportunities.

Windsor Great Park Illuminated

Windsor Great Park Illuminated

Dates: 14 November 2025 – 3 January 2026
Location: Windsor Great Park (access via The Savill Garden & Adventure Play car park)
Step into a winter wonderland as Windsor Great Park Illuminated returns with its most spectacular trail yet. This award-winning event transforms the park’s ancient woodland into a glowing landscape of colour, music and festive magic. Wander along a 2.2 km trail where woodland creatures come to life, sparkling fountains dance and immersive projections light up the night. Expect dazzling displays of colour, breathtaking installations, immersive projections and much more. With our all-new trail design, we’re sure you are going to love it.

Pause at cosy rest stops to toast marshmallows under the stars, sip mulled wine or hot chocolate, and savour mouth-watering food. The trail is dog-friendly, making it perfect for the whole family. Accessibility has been carefully considered, and a Low Sensory Session (25 November 2025) is available for visitors who prefer a calmer experience.
Tickets: Adults from £19.80; Children (3–15) from £12.10; Family tickets from £56.10. Parking must be pre-booked. Timed entry slots ensure a relaxed experience, so book early to secure your preferred time.

This is more than a light trail; it’s an opportunity to create lasting festive memories. Combine your visit with a stay in Windsor or Maidenhead and enjoy Christmas shopping, dining and local attractions.

Maidenhead Christmas Lights Switch-On

Christmas Lights Switch-On Events

Celebrate the start of the festive season with free Christmas lights switch-on events. These community celebrations combine twinkling lights with entertainment, food stalls and family fun.

Maidenhead Christmas Lights Switch-On & Market

Date: Saturday 22 November 2025
Location: St Ives Road, Maidenhead
Maidenhead’s Christmas Lights Switch-On is the town’s big festive kick off! Enjoy a full day of festivities from 11am, including a bustling Christmas market, live music and entertainment, children’s funfair rides and mini golf! The switch-on countdown begins just before 6pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks display on the Town Hall roof (weather permitting). Enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and seasonal treats as the lights transform the town centre.

View of Windsor Castle Salisbury Tower Christmas Illuminations, image VisitWindsor

Windsor Castle Salisbury Tower Christmas Illuminations

Date: until early January 2026
Location: Thames Street, Windsor
This festive season, the world’s most recognisable castle once again provides the backdrop for Windsor’s spectacular and creative Christmas illuminations, projected each night onto Windsor Castle’s Salisbury Tower. Standing over 50ft tall, Salisbury Tower will be illuminated with Christmas images created by local schoolchildren as well as stunning images of St George’s Chapel’s stained glass windows, architectural details and motifs.

Norden Farm Lantern Parade

Norden Farm Lantern Parade | The Carnival of the Animals

Date: Saturday 6 December 2025
Location: Maidenhead Town Centre
Join the Norden Farm Lantern Parade, a beloved community event that lights up Maidenhead with creativity and colour. Hundreds of handcrafted lanterns illuminate the streets as families, schools and local groups parade through the town accompanied by live music. This year’s theme celebrates nature and imagination, with giant willow sculptures leading the procession.

In the weeks before the parade, create your own glowing artworks at one of the lantern-making workshops (fee applies) at Norden Farm and Maidenhead town centre venues. These sessions, led by expert artists, are suitable for children and adults, making them a perfect pre-Christmas activity.

The parade concludes with a celebratory gathering in the town centre, where visitors can enjoy warm drinks, festive snacks and entertainment. It’s free to attend and a wonderful way to experience Maidenhead’s community spirit during the festive season.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Drone Show

Dates: 20–21 December 2025
Location: Royal Windsor Racecourse
Experience Christmas magic like never before at the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Drone Show. For the first time in the UK, Windsor’s night sky becomes a canvas for 600 illuminated drones telling Rudolph’s heart-warming story. Set to a cinematic soundtrack, this cutting-edge show combines technology and tradition in a breathtaking spectacle.

The event offers more than the drone display: enjoy fairground rides, Santa’s grotto, gaming stalls and a street food village. VIP areas and relaxed viewing zones make it accessible for all, and the venue is dog-friendly.

This is a must-see highlight of the festive calendar, perfect for families, couples and anyone seeking a unique seasonal experience. Pair your visit with Windsor’s Christmas shopping and dining for an unforgettable short break.