Christmas Events in Leicester 2026

About Christmas in Leicester

Leicester's Christmas season transforms the city centre into one of the East Midlands' busiest festive destinations. The Christmas market spreads across Gallowtree Gate and the High Street from mid-November, with wooden chalets, street food, and artisan gifts running through to late December. The annual light switch-on at the Clock Tower - where a 44-foot Christmas tree anchors the city centre display - draws over 25,000 visitors each November and marks the official start of the season.

At Jubilee Square, a real ice rink with embedded LED lights runs from late November into the new year alongside the Wheel of Light, a 35-metre Ferris wheel offering views across the city. A funfair at Humberstone Gate and Santa's Grotto at Town Hall Square complete a city centre Christmas offer that keeps families busy across a full day out.

Curve, Leicester's award-winning producing theatre, typically stages a major Christmas production each year. Leicester Cathedral hosts carol concerts and festive services throughout December. The Phoenix, the city's independent arts cinema, is worth checking for family Christmas film screenings through December. The National Space Centre is also worth checking for seasonal programming - a distinctly Leicester addition to any festive day out.

Beyond the city, Leicestershire's wider Christmas programme adds further options for families. Twycross Zoo has in recent years staged an illuminated evening lantern trail event through December. The Great Central Railway has run Santa Express steam trains through the Leicestershire countryside each December weekend. Belvoir Castle has staged an annual Christmas event with lights, decorations, and family activities in its grounds. Check each attraction directly for 2026 dates and availability. Browse the listings below and book early - the ice rink, Santa experiences, and popular shows sell out on busy dates.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Leicester's Christmas season start?
The Leicester Christmas Market typically opens in mid-November and runs until late December. The city's Christmas light switch-on at the Clock Tower usually takes place in the third week of November. The ice rink at Jubilee Square opens from late November and runs into the new year.
Is Leicester's Christmas market free to visit?
Yes, the Christmas market is free to explore. The ice rink, Ferris wheel, and funfair are all ticketed or pay-as-you-go. Santa's Grotto requires advance booking. Check individual listings on Midsmas for details of ticketed events.
Do I need to book Leicester Christmas events in advance?
For ticketed events such as Santa's Grotto, theatre shows, and attraction-based events, yes. The ice rink can be busy on weekends and school holiday dates and advance booking is recommended. The Christmas market itself is walk-in.
Are there Christmas events for younger children in Leicester?
Yes. Santa's Grotto at Town Hall Square and the ice rink's family sessions are well suited to younger children. Always check age guidance on individual event listings before booking.
Is Leicester easy to get to for Christmas events?
Yes. Leicester has good rail connections from across the East Midlands. The city centre is compact and walkable once you arrive. Parking is available in the city centre but can be busy during December weekends - public transport is recommended where possible.
What types of Christmas events are listed for Leicester on Midsmas?
Leicester's listings span the city's varied Christmas programme - Santa experiences, theatre shows, the Christmas market and ice rink in the city centre, festive train rides on the Great Central Railway, illuminated trail events at Leicestershire attractions, and family days out across the county. All events are family-friendly. We list and describe events editorially without ranking or reviewing them, so you can browse and decide what suits your family.

View all Christmas events in Leicestershire and Rutland

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