Top 6 Family Grottos and Festive Days Out for Christmas in Hertfordshire (2025 Edition)
Discover the best Christmas events in Hertfordshire for families in 2025 — from magical Santa grottos to dazzling light trails and festive markets
Updated 05/12/2025
The festive season in Hertfordshire is a time of wonder, warmth, and shared laughter. Families across the county are spoiled for choice, with enchanting Santa grottos, light trails that sparkle through historic estates, and bustling Christmas fairs filled with music and magic.
Whether you’re after a full day on the farm with Father Christmas, an atmospheric evening wandering under fairy-lit trees, or a cozy local fair where you can sip hot chocolate and find that perfect handmade gift — Hertfordshire delivers something for everyone.
These six featured events are family-friendly, accessible, and filled with seasonal spirit. From St Albans to Tring, from Berkhamsted to Redbourn, each location transforms into a festive wonderland designed to delight visitors of all ages.
Santa Spectacular at Willows Activity Farm
The Santa Spectacular at Willows Activity Farm is one of Hertfordshire’s most beloved festive attractions. From the moment you arrive, the farm glows with Christmas spirit — think twinkling lights, holiday tunes, and the scent of gingerbread in the air.
Children can meet Father Christmas in his charming grotto and use their “magic key” to unlock the toy shop, where they can pick a gift of their choice.Other highlights include gingerbread decorating, a soft-toy “create-a-cuddle” workshop, festive shows, tractor rides, and indoor play areas.
Date: 23 November – 24 December 2025
Time: Full-day event
Address: Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF
Website & Tickets: Willows Activity Farm – Santa Spectacular
Parking: Free on-site parking available
Every part of the day has been crafted to make it magical for kids and stress-free for parents. With animal encounters and plenty of festive photo ops, this experience goes beyond a standard grotto visit — it’s a full-day celebration of Christmas joy.
Ashridge House “Illuminated” Light Trail
Ashridge House’s Illuminated is Hertfordshire’s grandest Christmas light trail — a breathtaking after-dark experience. Wander through acres of gardens adorned with thousands of shimmering lights, glowing sculptures, and interactive displays.
Every turn reveals a new spectacle, from tunnel-style walkways of light to dancing projections that transform the historic estate into a living artwork.Families will love the relaxed pace of the walk, and there’s a festive food village serving mulled wine, hot chocolate, and warm snacks.
Date: 27 November 2025 – 1 January 2026
Time: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm (varies by date)
Address: Ashridge House, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 1NS
Website & Tickets: Ashridge House Illuminated
Parking: Free on-site parking for ticket holders
Don’t miss the observation wheel for panoramic nighttime views of the glowing gardens. The trail is family-friendly and suitable for pushchairs. Dress warmly and bring a camera — this one’s all about making memories.
Knebworth Christmas Fair
Held in the grounds of the iconic Knebworth House, the Knebworth Christmas Fair is a festive marketplace filled with over 250 stalls selling gifts, crafts, and local produce. Families can shop for everything from artisanal foods and handmade decorations to jewellery and toys — all under twinkling lights and festive music.
This is more than just shopping: visitors can enjoy live entertainment, festive treats, and a truly Christmassy atmosphere.
Date: 21 – 23 November 2025
Time: Times vary daily
Address: Knebworth House, Old Knebworth Lane, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2AX
Website & Tickets: Knebworth Christmas Fair
Parking: On-site parking available
Children will enjoy exploring the stalls and tasting holiday snacks, while parents can browse for unique gifts. Arrive early to make the most of your day and enjoy the fair before it gets busy.
Harpenden Christmas Carnival & Lights Switch-On
The Harpenden Christmas Carnival is a joyful community celebration that transforms the town into a Christmas wonderland for one afternoon each November.
The event features a grand parade, live performances on multiple stages, street food, artisan stalls, children’s rides, and a festive funfair.The highlight of the evening is the spectacular lights switch-on at 5 pm, when the entire High Street glows with festive cheer.
Date: Sunday 23 November 2025
Time: 12:00 – 18:00
Address: Harpenden High Street, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2RU
Website: Harpenden Christmas Carnival & Lights Switch-On
Tickets: Free entry
Parking: Free limited parking available at the Station car park
Santa’s grotto, craft workshops, and entertainment from local schools make it an unmissable family day out. Arrive early to enjoy the parade and explore the market before the lights ceremony begins.
Tring Together Christmas Festival
This early-evening celebration is a highlight of the Tring community calendar. The High Street comes alive with over 100 market stalls selling gifts, food, and crafts, alongside a funfair, live performances, and Santa’s grotto in the Memorial Garden.
Children can meet Santa and his reindeer, while parents enjoy warm drinks, street food, and live entertainment. With traffic-free streets and a relaxed atmosphere, the Tring Together Christmas.
Date: Saturday 29 November 2025
Time: 15:30 – 20:30
Address: Tring High Street & Victoria Hall, Tring HP23 5AE
Website: Tring Together Christmas Festival
Tickets: Free entry
Parking: Town car parks available nearby
Festival is perfect for families seeking a traditional festive evening filled with laughter and local spirit.
Hertfordshire Christmas Shopping Fair (Redbourn Showground)
If you enjoy festive shopping and artisan markets, the Hertfordshire Christmas Shopping Fair is not to be missed. With more than 150 exhibitors showcasing crafts, home décor, seasonal foods, and gifts, it’s an ideal place to stock up on presents while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.
Families can browse at a leisurely pace, sample festive treats, and even enjoy hot drinks from on-site cafés and food trucks.
Date: 6 – 7 December 2025
Time: All day (check website for confirmed times)
Address: Redbourn Showground, Redbourn, Hertfordshire AL3 7PT
Website & Tickets: Hertfordshire Christmas Shopping Fair
Parking: Free on-site parking
The fair is spacious, easy to navigate with pushchairs, and offers plenty of parking — making it a convenient day out for parents and children alike.
Whichever event you choose, Hertfordshire offers a Christmas experience to remember. From light trails and Santa’s grottos to charming markets and family carnivals, every corner of the county is brimming with festive cheer.
Plan ahead, wrap up warm, and bring your Christmas spirit — these events are designed to create memories that will last long after the decorations come down. Here’s to a joyful, family-filled holiday season in Hertfordshire!
