As Christmas approaches, the festive spirit is alive across Hitchin, Letchworth, and Stevenage, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a rich array of events. From light displays to family-friendly entertainment, each town offers unique experiences for celebrating the season. Here’s our top picks of the unmissable Christmas events this year:
Hitchin: Traditional Festivities & Community Warmth
Hitchin Christmas Lights Switch-On
Date: November 16th
Location: Market Place
Hitchin’s Christmas Lights Switch-On is a highly anticipated event that draws locals and visitors alike to the heart of the town. The festivities begin in the afternoon with live performances by local artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere to get everyone into the Christmas spirit. Street food stalls fill the area, offering delicious seasonal treats that are perfect for warming you up on a chilly evening. The event also features family-friendly activities, including a surprise appearance by Santa himself, making it a perfect outing for families. As evening falls, the countdown begins, and the excitement builds. When the lights are finally switched on, Market Place is transformed with the grand Christmas tree as the centrepiece.
Hitchin Christmas Tree Festival
Dates: December 13th-15th
Location: Holy Saviour Church
This magical Christmas Tree Festival is a beloved tradition in Hitchin, featuring around 50 uniquely decorated Christmas trees created by local groups, businesses, and schools. Each tree reflects the creativity and spirit of its decorator, filling Holy Saviour Church with a dazzling display of lights and colours. With live music and refreshments available, it’s a perfect way to start your holiday season and support local charities.
Carols at the Market Place
Date: December 18th
Location: Market Place
Celebrate the season with an outdoor carol service hosted in Hitchin’s Market Place. Local musicians come together to perform beloved Christmas carols, bringing the community together in song. Be sure to bring your holiday cheer (and a warm coat) for this wonderful tradition that captures the spirit of the season.
Letchworth Garden City: Festive Lights and Family Fun
Letchworth Garden City Christmas Lights Switch-On
Date: November 23rd
Location: Broadway Gardens
Kick off the holiday season in Letchworth Garden City with the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On. Broadway Gardens transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland with live performances, food stalls, and festive fun for all ages. The event culminates in the magical moment when the lights are switched on, illuminating the town centre with holiday colours. It’s a family-friendly event that marks the beginning of the season in Letchworth.
Standalone Farm Christmas Market
Dates: November 30th – December 8th
Location: Standalone Farm
Set in the scenic Standalone Farm, this festive market is a local favourite for holiday shopping. Browse stalls featuring handmade crafts, unique gifts, and delicious seasonal treats all while the farm’s animals add a touch of rustic charm. Perfect for families and friends, the Standalone Farm Christmas Market offers a cozy and community-focused holiday experience.
Goldilocks and the Three Bears Pantomime
Dates: December 19th – 22nd
Location: Broadway Theatre
Get ready for festive family fun with this year’s pantomime, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, at Letchworth’s Broadway Theatre. Perfect for all ages, the show brings together the best of panto magic, with slapstick humour, catchy tunes, and a touch of seasonal sparkle. Join in the laughs and cheer for your favourite characters in this unforgettable holiday performance that’s sure to entertain kids and adults alike!
Stevenage: Markets, Magic, and Family Entertainment
Stevenage Christmas Lights Switch-On
Date: November 23rd
Location: Town Centre
The Stevenage Christmas Lights Switch-On is a highlight of the town’s festive calendar, marking the official start of the holiday season. The celebrations include live music performances, entertainment, and family-friendly activities, all leading up to the highly anticipated moment when the Christmas lights are switched on. With food stalls, hot drinks, and a visit from Santa, it’s a fantastic way to kick off your Christmas festivities in Stevenage.
Stevenage Christmas Market
Dates: November 16th – December 31st
Location: Queensway
Stevenage’s Christmas Market in Queensway is a vibrant destination for holiday shoppers. This bustling market offers a wide selection of festive foods, handcrafted gifts, and holiday decorations. Live performances and seasonal music create a joyful atmosphere, making it a great spot for families, friends, or anyone wanting to dive into the holiday spirit.
Winter Wonderland at Fairlands Valley Park
Dates: November 28th – 1st January
Location: Fairlands Valley Park
For a full day of holiday fun, head to Fairlands Valley Park, which transforms into a Winter Wonderland in the festive season. The park features an ice rink, carnival rides, and a Santa’s grotto where kids can share their Christmas wishes. The festive decorations and lights make for beautiful photo opportunities, and there’s no shortage of hot drinks and snacks to keep you warm.
A Season of Festive Joy in Hitchin, Letchworth, and Stevenage
Each of these towns offers something special for the holidays, whether you’re looking to shop for unique gifts, enjoy festive performances, or simply soak up the season’s magic with friends and family. With events happening from November through December, there’s plenty of time to explore the best of what Hitchin, Letchworth, and Stevenage have to offer. Mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and celebrate the holiday season with these unmissable events.
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