Christmas Events

Christmas is a magical time to visit the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead and there are plenty of opportunities to make special memories with family and friends.

Whether you're planning a festive day out, a Christmas shopping trip, a winter weekend away or a New Year escape, you'll find an outstanding choice of seasonal experiences across the borough. From enchanting light trails and Christmas markets to family-friendly attractions, pantomimes and cosy places to stay, Windsor & Maidenhead offers everything you need for a memorable festive break.

Explore our top Christmas events and discover why the Royal Borough is one of the most magical places to enjoy the festive season.

Funfair ride at Ascot Racecourse Christmas race meeting, image Nicole Hains

Top Christmas Events | Experience the Magic of Christmas

The Royal Borough comes alive throughout November and December with a packed programme of festive events for visitors of all ages.

Ascot Racecourse's Howden Christmas Racing Weekend sees plenty of seasonal fun for all on the Saturday, with a range of festive entertainment set to delight racegoers of all ages, from fairground rides to joyful carol singing.

If you're lucky enough to have tickets to LaplandUK, prepare to be immersed in the storytelling world of Father Christmas' mythical home in the Enchanted Forest!

As darkness falls, enjoy the beauty of Windsor Great Park Illuminated. Wander through sparkling pathways, admire dazzling displays and enjoy seasonal refreshments along the way, perfect for capturing memorable photographs and embracing the festive spirit.  The trail is dog friendly making it easy to include your four-legged family members in the festive fun.

Visitors can also enjoy Christmas concerts, carol singing, seasonal food and drink experiences, Christmas markets and special festive celebrations taking place throughout Windsor, Maidenhead and the surrounding villages.

Why visit?

• Festive shopping and Christmas markets
• Spectacular light trails and illuminated displays
• Seasonal food and drink experiences
• Great for couples and groups of friends
• Dog-friendly festive events
• Perfect for Christmas day trips and weekend breaks

Pantomime at Theatre Royal Windsor, image Jack Merriman

Christmas Theatre and Live Entertainment | Festive Shows for the Whole Family

No Christmas season is complete without a trip to the theatre.

Across the Royal Borough, visitors can enjoy a fantastic programme of festive performances, from traditional pantomime productions –  including Jack & The Beanstalk at Theatre Royal Windsor – to live music, Christmas concerts and family shows like Twinkle Twinkle at Norden Farm.  Look out for our range of Low Sensory and Relaxed experiences too.

For those seeking an evening out, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy festive live entertainment. Look out for Christmas concerts, seasonal performances, comedy nights and special festive events such as a Festive Evening of Burlesque & Cabaret!

Why not combine a theatre visit with dinner in one of Windsor's welcoming restaurants, or make a night of it by exploring the area's vibrant food and drink scene.

Perfect for:

• Family-friendly theatre trips
• Traditional Christmas pantomime experiences
• Live shows and festive concerts
• Evening entertainment for couples
• Christmas celebrations with friends

LEGO characters outside The LEGOLAND Windsor Resort

Festive Family Activities | Christmas Magic for All Ages

Families are spoiled for choice throughout the festive season in Windsor & Maidenhead.

Meet Father Christmas at special seasonal events like LEGOLAND at Christmas, discover festive trails, enjoy interactive experiences and take part in a wide range of family-friendly activities designed to entertain children and grown-ups alike.

Creative visitors can try their hand at wreath-making workshops and festive craft sessions and create personalised Christmas decorations.

An ice rink is often high on many festive wish lists. Whether you're an experienced skater or taking to the ice for the first time, skating under sparkling lights at Windsor on Ice is a wonderful way to embrace the Christmas spirit.

You will also find festive storytelling sessions, Christmas-themed activities at local attractions and seasonal experiences designed especially for younger visitors.

Many activities are suitable for multi-generational groups, making them ideal for grandparents, parents and children looking to enjoy Christmas together.

Family-friendly highlights

• Meet Father Christmas experiences
• Wreath making workshops
• Ice rink fun
• Festive craft activities
• Christmas trails and interactive experiences
• School holiday entertainment

The Copper Horse, Windsor Great Park, makes a great winter walk

Fun Christmas Days Out | Make the Most of the Festive Season

Looking for inspiration for a Christmas day trip? The Royal Borough offers a fantastic combination of festive attractions, historic landmarks, shopping and seasonal events.  In Windsor Castle a 20-foot-high Christmas tree will be decked with thousands of sparkling lights and shimmering green and gold ornaments, and there will be children's arts and crafts activities available throughout the school holidays.

Explore Windsor's historic streets, discover our shops and enjoy the festive atmosphere throughout the town centre before enjoying lunch in one of the area's cosy cafés or traditional pubs.

Nature lovers can enjoy winter walks through Windsor Great Park, The Savill Garden or by the River Thames, while families can explore attractions offering special Christmas programmes and seasonal activities. 

The area is also ideal for groups of friends looking for a festive day together. Combine seasonal shopping with festive cocktails, live entertainment and winter experiences for a memorable celebration.

Couples will find plenty of opportunities for romantic festive moments too. Stroll through sparkling Christmas lights, enjoy a seasonal afternoon tea or relax by the fire in one of the area's welcoming venues.

Great ideas for festive days out

• Christmas shopping and markets
• Winter walks and scenic landscapes
• Festive afternoon teas
• Family-friendly attractions
• Romantic experiences for couples
• Group celebrations and seasonal gatherings

Book a Festive Break in the Windsor Area | Stay Longer and Enjoy More

A day trip is wonderful, but a festive short break allows you to experience even more of what the Royal Borough has to offer.

From luxury hotels and boutique properties to welcoming guest accommodation, visitors can choose from a wide range of cosy places to stay. Many accommodation providers offer special festive packages and seasonal experiences during the Christmas and New Year period.

Wake up to a winter morning, enjoy breakfast before exploring festive attractions and spend your evenings discovering seasonal entertainment, restaurants and Christmas events.

The Royal Borough is ideally located for a festive getaway and provides an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding area. Whether you're travelling as a couple, planning a family break or organising a pre-Christmas celebration with friends, you'll find accommodation to suit every style and budget.

Many hotels also welcome dogs, making it easier to plan a dog-friendly Christmas escape without leaving anyone behind.

Reasons to book a festive stay

• Cosy places to stay for winter breaks
• Family-friendly accommodation options
• Dog-friendly hotels and guest accommodation
• Romantic Christmas getaways for couples
• Great location for festive shopping and events
• Perfect for Christmas and New Year breaks

Make Windsor & Maidenhead Part of Your Christmas Tradition

Whether you're planning a magical day out, a weekend escape or a longer Christmas break, you'll discover plenty of opportunities to celebrate, relax and create lasting memories. From family fun and festive traditions to cosy winter experiences for couples and friends, Windsor & Maidenhead is the perfect destination to enjoy Christmas and New Year.