Experience the magic of Christmas in Bristol with this guide to Christmas events. From the famous Christmas markets in Bristol to breathtaking Christmas light trails and spectacular festive theatre shows, Bristol is brimming with exciting events this Christmas.
Get into the festive spirit at the Bristol Christmas Market, where you’ll find traditional wooden chalets, artisan gifts, handmade crafts, and delicious seasonal food.
Wander through our miles of Christmas markets, with stalls and pop-ups spread across the city centre and beyond. Sip on mulled wine, enjoy live music, and soak up the joyful atmosphere.
Discover some of the most spectacular Christmas light trails in and around Bristol this winter.
Explore the Winter Wonderland at Wookey Hole, with caves illuminated by 100,000 fairy lights, or head to Westonbirt Arboretum to stroll through their illuminated light trail, featuring a series of dazzling new illuminated artworks among the trees. Brunel's SS Great Britain is also hosting a special light and sound experience in Beneath the Waves.
The legendary Festival of Light is back at Longleat from November to January, featuring large-scale lanterns and enchanting scenes. You can also see breathtaking festive Christmas lights and seasonal displays perfect for families at Old Down Country Park, Avon Valley Adventure Park and Sudeley Castle.
There’s no better way to celebrate Christmas events in Bristol than with an evening at the theatre surrounded by glitter, laughter, and holiday spirit.
Classic pantomimes and dazzling productions bring laughter and magic to audiences of all ages. Book a ticket to Jack and the Beanstalk at Bristol Hippodrome, or Sleeping Beauty at The Redgrave Theatre.
There are also some alternative shows on at Bristol's theatres this Christmas, from Moulin Scrooge at The Wardrobe Theatre to Rapunzel: A Hairy Tale at The Tobacco Factory Theatres.
Watch a musical retelling of a classic in Treasure Island at Bristol Old Vic featuring Bristol's very own Jayde Adams, or treat the family to a fun performance of Kid Carpet & The Noisy Animals: Jack & The Beanstalk (Sort Of).
Don't forget to check what's coming up at Bristol Cathedral and St Mary Redcliffe for their Advent and Christmas programmes, from carol concerts to nativity processions.
Create lasting memories with a wide range of family-friendly Christmas events and attractions.
Go on a sprout hunt at Wake The Tiger, experience a Victorian Christmas at Brunel's SS Great Britain, watch some festive animal feeds and see baby zebras at Bristol Zoo Project, or learn about the magic of starfish at Bristol Aquarium.
Santa will be in his grotto at a variety of locations this Christmas, including St Nicholas Market, Cabot Circus, Ashton Court, The Grand Pier and Old Down Country Park.
National Trust properties Tyntesfield and Dyrham Park near Bristol are full of warmth and sparkle this Christmas, with everything from craft workshops and family trails to winter lights and visits from Father Christmas.
Families visiting Wookey Hole can meet Santa, enjoy a festive circus show, and take part in a range of activities, from exploring the caves to watching a 4D cinema show.
Slide into the festive spirit with Twilight Tobogganing at Mendip Activity Centre, or explore their enchanted woodland walk to a magical grotto, marshmallows, hot chocolate and sparklers.
Plan your perfect Christmas in Bristol
Looking for more ideas to fill the Christmas holidays? Take a look at our list of family-friendly things to do in and around Bristol.
Discover more inspiration, festive ideas, and blogs on our Christmas in Bristol page.
