A Festive Journey Through Hampshire’s Christmas Lights and Celebrations (2024)
As Christmas 2024 approaches, Hampshire transforms into a wonderland of twinkling lights, magical experiences, and heartwarming celebrations.
The county boasts a rich tradition of festive events that cater to all ages, from enchanting light trails in stunning parks to bustling Christmas markets in historical settings. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a romantic evening stroll, Hampshire offers a host of holiday activities to make this season unforgettable. Let's explore some of the most anticipated Christmas lights and celebrations for 2024.
Glow Marwell 2024
Hampshire's beloved Marwell Zoo near Winchester will once again host its annual Glow Marwell event, one of the most popular Christmas lights experiences in the region. Running from November 29 to December 30, 2024, Glow Marwell promises an enchanting evening where nature and light art collide to create a dazzling winter wonderland.
Dates: November 29 - December 30, 2024
Address: Marwell Wildlife, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JH.
Tickets: Buy them here!
This year's theme is "Elements of Nature," where visitors will journey through a series of light installations representing fire, earth, air, and water. A standout feature of 2024 is the "Ocean Display," where glowing jellyfish light up the night, and the "Sky Zone," filled with neon clouds and whimsical floating lights. Returning favorites include the interactive stepping stones, the glowing enchanted tree, and the immersive light tunnel that is perfect for family photos.
One of the highlights of Glow Marwell is the interactive UV face painting. For a small fee, guests can have their faces painted with designs that come alive under special UV lights, blending in perfectly with the illuminated environment.
And what’s Christmas without Father Christmas? At Marwell, you can meet Santa in the Grade 1-listed Marwell Hall on select dates, spreading festive cheer to children and families alike.
In addition to the lights, Glow Marwell offers festive treats, including toasted marshmallows by the fire pits, hot cocoa, and mulled wine, making it a delightful experience for all the senses.
Enlightened Winter Light Trail at Staunton Farm
Staunton Farm, brings back its renowned Enlightened Winter Light Trail from December 6 to 24, 2024. This immersive light experience winds through the historic landscape, offering visitors breathtaking views of illuminated gardens and woodland.
The Enlightened trail has become a festive favorite, with interactive displays, dazzling light sculptures, and immersive soundscapes that add a magical atmosphere to the evening. Visitors can expect shimmering lights reflecting on lakes, tunnels of twinkling stars, and beautifully lit trees that highlight the park’s natural beauty. Families can also enjoy interactive features, where children can engage with light-up installations and explore new experiences at every turn.
Dates: December 6 - December 24, 2024
Address: Marwell Wildlife, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JH.
Tickets: Buy them here!
Staunton Farm offers this event as a perfect family-friendly outing, with food and drink stalls offering seasonal favorites like mince pies and warm drinks to enjoy as you wander through the lights. For a full experience and to book tickets, head over to the.
Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
For the third consecutive year, Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in Romsey will host the Light Up Trail, a spectacular fusion of light and sound set against the backdrop of the historic gardens. Running from November 28, 2024, to January 1, 2025, the award-winning event will feature an all-new route for 2024.
What sets the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens event apart is its combination of natural beauty and artistic light displays. Visitors can expect immersive light tunnels, stunning illuminated landscapes, and dynamic soundscapes that enhance the festive mood. This year, on "Super Peak Nights," guests will be treated to live performances from Steamship Circus, which includes fire jugglers and incredible aerial artists.
Dates: November 28, 2024 - January 1, 2025
Address: Jermyns Ln, Romsey SO51 0QA, United Kingdom
Tickets: Buy them here!
This is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates light trails and is looking to enjoy a more tranquil, artistic holiday experience. Be sure to visit the official website for tickets and event details.
Christmas Markets in Hampshire
A quintessential part of Christmas in Hampshire is its vibrant Christmas markets, where visitors can soak up the festive atmosphere while shopping for unique gifts. One of the most renowned is the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market.
Dates: December 22 - December 22, 2024
Address: 9 The Cl, Winchester SO23 9LS, United Kingdom
Set against the stunning backdrop of Winchester Cathedral, this market is modeled after traditional German Christmas markets. It features over 100 stalls selling a wide array of handmade crafts, gourmet food, and festive decorations. Winchester’s Christmas market is not just about shopping—there are also live performances from local choirs, mulled wine to keep you warm, and street food that ranges from churros to bratwurst.
Ice Skating in Southampton and Portsmouth
For those planning to visit Portsmouth during the holiday season, Portsmouth on Ice will make a delightful return in November 2024, offering a perfect opportunity to embrace the winter spirit. This popular ice rink will operate throughout the entire festive period, providing a variety of skating sessions tailored to different age groups and preferences.
Dates: November 23, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Address: Guildhall Square,Portsmouth, PO1 2AB
Tickets: Buy them here!
Families with children can take advantage of the special daytime slots that cater to younger skaters, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. In the evenings, adults can enjoy the rink during the late-night skating sessions, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere under the glow of festive lights. Whether you're a seasoned skater or trying it for the first time, the rink promises a joyful outing with friends or family. Keep an eye on the official website for specific dates, times, and ticket availability to make sure you don’t miss out on this quintessential winter experience.
Themed Christmas Celebrations
Hampshire offers more than just lights and markets—this year, several locations are hosting themed Christmas experiences. West Green House Gardens near Hook presents a unique Over the Rainbow Christmas event, blending the magic of Christmas with a whimsical "Wizard of Oz" theme.
Dates: November 23, 2024 - January 5, 2025
Address: West Green House Gardens, Thackham’s Lane, near Hartley Wintney, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 8JB
Tickets: Buy them here!
From November 23 to December 29, 2024, the gardens will be filled with themed light displays, including familiar characters like the Tin Man and Scarecrow, making it a fun and nostalgic experience for families.
Pantomimes and Performances
No Christmas is complete without attending a traditional British pantomime, and Hampshire has plenty to offer in 2024. The Mayflower Theatre in Southampton will host the spectacular Jack and the Beanstalk, starring Ashley Banjo and Diversity, along with West End stars from December 14, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Other pantomimes include Dick Whittington at The Kings Theatre in Portsmouth and Beauty and the Beast at New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth. These family-friendly shows are full of laughter, audience participation, and festive cheer, making them a must-see during the holiday season.
With so many festive events to choose from, Hampshire truly offers something for everyone this Christmas season. From the sparkling light trails at Marwell Zoo and Sir Harold Hillier Gardens to the bustling Christmas markets and heartwarming pantomimes, this year’s celebrations are sure to create lasting memories for all who attend. Be sure to check the official event websites for ticket information and further details to ensure you don’t miss out on the festive magic.
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