Christmas in Stratford-upon-Avon

There is something for everyone this Christmas in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Christmas lights turn on - Thursday 27th November

The Lights Display in Stratford over the Christmas period is considered to be one of the finest in the UK. The lights this year will be switched on at a ceremony to be held at 5pm on Thursday 25th November 2010  at the Town Hall and will remain lit until the early hours of 6th January. 

Presided over by the Mayor and her entourage, “switch-on” is one of the town’s very special occasions with processions, the arrival of Father Christmas and heralds the commencement of the town’s Christmas celebrations.

For a full timetable of the event visit the Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Lights website.

Christmas Community Concert

Bridge Street, Midday until 10pm - Friday 19th December. The concert will feature a number of choirs and groups from the local region, headlined by local solo artiste, Andrew James. 

Touch FM Radio will be present and there will be an Italian market in Bridge Street along with other food vendors, including a chocolate tram (selling Belgium chocolate waffles etc.), the pancake company, baked potatoes and quality coffees so plenty to keep the public warm!

Free Bus Tour of Christmas Lights

A free bus tour of the lights will be operating on Thursdays, 27 November, and 4th, 11th and 18th December. Buses depart from Debenhams in the High Street at 17.30 hrs, 18.30 hrs and 19.30 hrs on each of these evenings.

Shakespeare's Birthplace by Candlelight with Free Admission

From 5.30 until 8pm on Thursday 18th December. See the Shakespeare Birthplace for more information.

Late night shopping

There will be plenty of time to get the gifts as Stratford-upon-Avon late night shopping will be available  27th November, 4th , 11th, 18th and 19th December when some stores will be staying open until 9pm.

Free car parking

Car parking will be free in SDC car parks (except Bridgefoot and Unicorn Meadow) on 27th from 4pm till midnight, and on the other three Thursdays and Friday 19th from 6pm till midnight. For more information see the Stratford Town Management Partnership website.