21 Christmas Events in Bristol to check out in 2021
Each year Bristol transforms into a Christmas wonderland, full of Christmas cheer and magic. If you have Christmas on your mind and want to treat yourself and your family to some good old-fashioned Christmas events, then Bristol is the place to be.
We have gathered 21 events in and around Bristol this year that will get you into the Christmas spirit and discover some Christmas magic.
Nov 1st – Nov 6th
Suppose you are ready for an evening full of whimsy and romance. Then the white Christmas musical is worth checking out. This Christmas event won’t soon be forgotten, full of classic Christmas songs, show-stopping choreography, and a spectacular light show.
Nov 5th- Dec 23rd
Come spend your day exploring the Bristol Christmas market. With over 40 vendors, you are sure to find treasures for you and your loved ones.
While you’re spending your day filled with Christmas cheer at the market, don’t forget to stop for a scrumptious meal, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with a variety of sweets or go for a more traditional Bratwurst and everything in between.
New this year to the Bristol Christmas market are the private igloo pads. Don’t forget to book an igloo ahead of time to enjoy a drink or two in a cosy heated igloo.
Nov 13th – Dec 24th
Spend the day spreading Christmas cheer alongside Paddington bear and Santa at the Cribbs Mall this holiday season. With a new skating rink installed, Planet Ice, waiting to be skated on, you can make a Christmas-filled day out of this event. With some favourite characters to see, Christmas Storytime and magical scenery to take in, this is sure to be a family favourite this holiday season.
Nov 14th, Nov 28th, Dec 2nd, Dec 9th, and Dec 12th
Estate of the arts is bringing you a lovely Christmas experience this year with five markets to enjoy. Come check out one or all the markets; each will have its vendors to offer you Christmas joy. Whether you’re shopping for Christmas gifts, shopping for yourself, or just a nice night out listening to live music, attending a workshop, enjoying some delightful food, or you want to wander around an open art studio; you are in for a magical evening.
Nov 19th – Dec 24th
If you’re looking for an enchanted evening out with your family, look no further. Ashton Court estate is offering a dazzling light-up experience. Take a stroll through the garden with a hot chocolate or a mulled wine in hand and take in the magic of Christmas.
This is the must-attend Christmas event of the year. With so many options for fun and entertainment, letting loose has never been easier.
Nov 25th– The Spiegeltent Drag Ball
Category is… Fun with a side of fabulous. Don’t miss out on live performances and special guests at this drag ball.
Nov 26th– Club Spiegel
Check out DJ King of the beats and A.Skills along with live music from Smooth and Turrell
Nov 27th– White Mink Electro Swing Speakeasy
Live music, Dance, and Cabaret are sure to give you a night to remember.
Dec 8th- The Puppini Sisters
Are you ready for a world-class singing trio to delight your ears and leave you in awe?
Dec 21st- 24th– Bring me Sunshine
This new show will leave you breathless and dazzled with a live circus, music, comedy, and even fire. You won’t want to miss this event.
Dec 31st– Roaring 2.0’s NYE Masquerade Ball
Let’s end this year with a bang and soar into the New Year in style. Join us for a masquerade ball, including live music and unforgettable performances.
Younger audiences haven’t been left out of the fun.
Nov 27th and Dec 18th– Baby Disco
Dec 4th– Drag show
Dec 11th– Family Cabaret
Dec 19th– Tuck Shop
There will be a Sunday social packed full of entertainment, family time, and even a traditional Sunday roast every Sun.
Nov 26th/ 27th, Dec 3rd/4th, Dec 10th/11th/12th, Dec 17th- Dec 21st
Join in on the adventure of reuniting Santa and his reindeer. Santa and his reindeer were separated while flying through a terrible storm and are now lost in the Westonbirt Arboretum. Spend a magical evening on a quest through the enchanted trails adorned with beautiful lights. You will be immersed in a Christmas wonderland, all while helping Santa and his reindeer, of course.
Nov 26th– 28th, Dec 3rd – 5th, Dec 10th – 12th, Dec 16th – Dec 23rd, Dec 27th – Dec 30th
For 6 years, Sudeley Castle and Gardens has transformed its grounds into a magical Christmas experience. Bring your whole family for an evening filled with magical lights that illuminate these beautiful castle grounds for you to explore.
Don’t forget to treat yourself to some mulled wine, hot chocolate, donuts, and a trip through the gift shop.
Nov 26th – Dec 23rd
Come support local small business owners, artists, and crafters for a fun-filled day full of Christmas cheer and shopping. You are in for a treat with vendors offering everything from unique and beautiful gifts to food and drinks.
It has never been a better time to support local vendors. Shopping at the Bristol local Christmas market will be a joyful experience for you and help your local economy.
Nov 26th- 28th, Dec 3rd – 5th, Dec 10th – 12th, Dec 16th – Dec 23rd, Dec 27th – Dec 30th
For 6 years, Sudeley Castle and Gardens has transformed its grounds into a magical Christmas experience. Bring your whole family for an evening filled with magical lights that illuminate these beautiful castle grounds for you to explore.
Don’t forget to treat yourself to some mulled wine, hot chocolate, donuts, and a trip through the gift shop.
Nov 27th – Jan 2nd
Nothing says Christmas season more than some good old ice skating. Bring the whole family or someone special for a day of ice skating or an evening ice skating complete with a DJ and a light show.
No day of ice skating is complete without some festive holiday treats or even a feast if you are famished at the bar and grill on-site.
Nov 27th – 28th, Dec 4th – 5th, Dec 11th – 12th
In celebration of local talent, Made in Bristol Gift Fair features 200 local artisan creatives. Come spend the day browsing what the local talent has to offer; you are sure to find beautiful and unique gifts for your loved ones this year. Now has never been more important to shop local. You will find an array of talent from bakers, Jewellers, leatherworkers, potters, printmakers, carpenters, and so much more.
Nov 28th, Dec 5th, Dec 12th, Dec 19th
A family Sunday lunch sounds like a lovely way to spend your afternoon. Gather in the Kerry suite for a three-course lunch surrounded by your loved ones. The little ones can look forward to a special visit from a jolly fellow from the North, who will be bearing gifts and joy for all.
Nov 29th- Jan 2nd
Gather your favourite people this holiday season at the Shelburne bar and restaurant in front of the roaring fire to enjoy an afternoon tea. This is a perfect setting to enjoy the company of your loved ones and spread some holiday cheer. Your afternoon tea will include scones with mulled fruit jam and clotted cream, as well as homemade sandwiches and two rounds of hot beverages.
Dec 1st- Dec 31st
Come on a magical Christmas adventure at the historic Ashton Court Mansion and meet Father Christmas. This event will delight children and adults alike, your adventure will begin in the Great Hall, and you will be led on an enchanted adventure through the mansion until you meet up with Father Christmas, who is bearing gifts for all the children.
Dec 3rd – Dec 30th
Join us for a Christmas adventure through the Avon Valley. You can hop on the Polar Express Miniature Steam Train and go for a trek through the snowy forest. Snow is guaranteed.
You will be amazed by the light show throughout the valley, and don’t forget your letters to Santa. There’s a post office to drop off your letter or even send Santa an SMS message.
This event is catered by independent caters who are going the extra mile to ensure a festive feast and seasonal drinks for you and your loved ones.
Dec 4th – Dec 24th
Avon Valley is full of Christmas cheer this season. With all the events being hosted at Avon Valley, you are sure to experience Christmas magic. While exploring the valley, don’t forget to stop for a visit with the big guy himself. Santa will be visiting Avon Valley, along with Mrs. Claus and a few reindeers. Bring the children to say hi and have a nice visit with Santa this year.
You can even catch a ride with the Grinch on a tractor-trailer ride through the Avon Valley.
Dec 4th – 5th, Dec 11th – 12th, Dec 18th – 24th
Go on a unique adventure with Santa and his Elves this holiday season for a boat ride around the harbour. Complete with gifts for all the children, sherry for the adults, snacks for all, and of course, photos with Santa.
The trip around the harbour is 45 mins and will delight every child with Christmas magic.
Dec 10th – Dec 12th, Dec 17th – Dec 22nd
After the year we have all had a good comedy show is in line. Join improv comedians and musicians for a night full of entertainment, drinks, and joy for all.
If you are looking for a night out with your special someone, a lady’s night, or just some old-fashioned grown-up fun, then this is the event for you. So buckle up, you are in for some holiday cheer, and some good belly laughs.
Dec 11th
Gather in the Westbury Park for some Christmas cheer with Christmas choral drama Bethlehem, followed by Christmas carol singalongs.
Dec 16th
After hours, bring your friends and family to the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery to enjoy some live performers and watch a festive classic movie, Elf. An excellent event to get into the holiday season and a fantastic night out at the Museum.
Dec 25th
If you’re looking for a festive feast on Christmas Day that you don’t have to prepare or clean up after, then Lunch in the Kerry suite is just what you are looking for.
Kick back and relax while a team of talented chefs cook for you and your family this Christmas day. The children will be delighted with a visit from Santa Claus and a sleigh full of gifts.
