Festive things to do this Christmas

 

With Christmas lights up, and on, across the Thames Valley, the festive season is fast approaching! Reading and the surrounding area is bursting into life with shows, dining and entertainment full of festive cheer. Here are some of the events to consider this season - all reachable by bus. This is just a few examples of what the area has to offer - check out our Things to do section for all the best events and places to go this Christmas:

festive shows and events

Jack and the Beanstalk at Hexagon | 3 December - 2 January

Join Justin Fletcher and Paul Morse at The Hexagon, Reading, for their "giant" 2022 pantomime - Jack and the Giant Beanstalk.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/hexagon-jack-and-beanstalk

 

Christmas Reggae Festival | 17 December

If you're looking for an alternative to all the usual Christmas music, the Christmas Reggae Festival may be just what you are looking for.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/christmas-reggae-festival

 

festive fun

Winter Wonderland | 12 November – 2 January

Reading Winter Wonderland is Berkshire's largest annual Christmas event.

Featuring an outdoor ice rink, Apres Ski Bar, Santas grotto and more. There's plenty of festive joy for everyone.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/winter-wonderland

 

Santa’s Grotto at Broad Street Mall | 26 November - 24 December (selected dates)

Santa has arrived at the Broad Street Mall in Reading! His magical grotto will be open on selected dates until Christmas bringing festive cheer to all.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/santas-grotto-broad-street-mall-multiple-dates

 

festive fairs

Wokingham Winter Carnival | 27 November

A fun day out for the whole family, Wokingham Winter Carnival will see a whole host of street performers, Christmas market stalls, rides and more come to the town centre to spread festive cheer.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/wokingham-winter-carnival

 

Theale Village Christmas Fayre | 3 December

Visit the Theale Village Christmas Fayre on Saturday 3 December and watch the village's lights get switched on.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/theale-village-christmas-fayre

 

festive shopping

MERLy Christmas shopping event | 27 November

Get your Christmas shopping done in a fun, festive atmosphere at the MERLy Christmas shopping event.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/merly-christmas-shopping-event

 

Reading's Indie Market: Christmas Gifting | 4 December

Reading's Double-Barrelled brewery will be transformed on Sunday 4 December into an indie Christmas market.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/readings-indie-market-christmas-gifting

 

festive lights

Reading Lantern Parade | 10 December

Don't miss the magical winter lantern procession on Saturday 10 December!

Starting at 5.30pm, walk together in lantern light and follow the glowing fireflies as they dance their way along Broad Street to Forbury Gardens.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/reading-lantern-parade

 

Lighting of the Christmas Tree in Bracknell

Bracknell lights up on Friday 25 November at 5.30pm when the town switches on its 10ft tall Christmas tree.

There will also be virtual sleigh rides offering you the chance to deliver presents with Santa and festive market stalls too, perfect for a bit of early Christmas shopping.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/lighting-christmas-tree-bracknell

 

festive food

Roseate Hotel festive afternoon tea | 25 November – 31 December

Indulge yourself this Christmas with a special festive-themed afternoon tea at the elegant Roseate Hotel in Reading.

Enjoy a mulled wine shot before choosing from the hotel’s 20 loose-leaf teas accompanied by special treats designed by the executive pastry chef.

More information: https://www.reading-buses.co.uk/roseate-hotel-festive-afternoon-tea