We love seeing Southampton filled with Christmas cheer again this year.
From late-night shopping and delicious dining to sensational shows, an ice rink, family-friendly events, we're here to help you plan your Christmas here in Southampton.
To help you plan your visit, be sure to take a look at our Christmas guide which highlights some of the fantastic things to see and do this festive season. Physical guides will be available at key venues and local businesses around the city.
Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate the beginning of the festive season in Southampton!
Below is this year's highlights video, created by videographer Dave Snocken, of just some of the fun had across the three day celebration.
This year's official event photos are available via our Facebook page here. All photos captured by Ryan Stanikk photography.
The Countdown to Christmas event is proudly bought to you GO! Southampton and sponsored by Brackenwood Windows. Find out more about Brackenwood here.
Explore the city with our brand new Christmas trail! Over the festive season, you can walk our North Pole and South Pole routes to discover 20 magical snowy scenes. At each location, jot down the clue you find in your trail map to help you solve for the secret festive word. Then take your completed map to our end locations where children will receive a FREE prize for all their hard work.
See Southampton transform into an unmissable festive wonderland of fun and entertainment, complete with glittering lights, hot and refreshing drinks, delicious food, and alpine chalets with plenty of independent vendors offering unique hand-made gifts for a spot of Christmas shopping. In Guildhall Square, enjoy thrilling rides with the return of the UK’s tallest Ferris wheel, AtmosFear and Snowball Launcher. Plus, new for this year, the market's Snow Slide and Santa's Grotto, over by the Bargate, where children can have their photo taken with Father Christmas and receive a small gift.
For a true seasonal spectacle, don't miss their mesmerising light show on the Bargate, which shows on the historic walls every 30 minutes from 5PM to 9.30PM (now until 24th December).
Lace up your skates because Westquay on ice returns to the Esplanade! Perfect for families and friends, the covered rink invites you to glide and twirl under a canopy of lights. Situated just outside the historic town walls, every moment on the ice feels truly magical. Whether you're a seasoned skater or taking your first spin, there’s a bit of icy fun waiting for everyone.
Escape to Southampton’s Après Bar, your cosy retreat this holiday season. Indulge in an array of seasonal beverages, from rich hot chocolates to winter cocktails and classic mulled wine, all served in charming, bookable mini alpine chalets. Ideal for gatherings, these spaces can accommodate groups of up to 10 people, making it the perfect spot to celebrate with friends and family.
19th December from 6.45pm
Get ready for a magical Christmas evening at St Mary’s Stadium filled with mulled wine, hot cider and festive cheer.
In the heart of the Northam Fan Zone, experience the magic of the season as London’s West End stars and full live band take to the stage. Let the melodies of festive hits fill the air as you sing along and celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
With a lineup of talented performers, this event is perfect for all to dance the night away. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas at one of the most iconic stadiums in the South.
Santa is visiting a range of locations across the city where children can meet him and even get a small gift. Find out where he’ll be by visiting our latest blog article here.
Southampton's theaters come alive with the magic of Christmas, offering a delightful array of holiday shows to enchant audiences of all ages. From heartwarming classics to dazzling, contemporary productions, this year's lineup of performances will be sure to make your Christmas season extra special.
See the much-anticipated panto of the year, Jack in a Beanstalk at Mayflower Theatre, or The Wind In The Willows and The Very Hungry Caterpillar Christmas Show at MAST Mayflower Studios which is made especially for little ones. For more shows taking place over the winter click here.
For our over 18s, if you are feeling extra saucy, why not watch Alice In WonderBra at The Stage Door theatre?
For history lovers near and far, take a step back in time and immerse yourself in Southampton's rich history at Tudor House or take in the masterpieces and latest exhibitions at Southampton City Art Gallery and John Hansard Gallery.
This festive season, immerse yourself in the joy of classic Christmas films and the excitement of the latest blockbusters right here in the city with Showcase Cinema de Lux Southampton.
Secure your seats for this year's most anticipated releases, including Mufasa, Wicked, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, and many more. Plus, relive your holiday favourites with one of their festive Flashbacks.
Indulge in the ultimate comfort with luxurious recliner seating in every screen, perfect for getting into the cosy Christmas spirit. For the latest showtimes and to book your tickets, visit showcasecinemas.co.uk.
Looking for the perfect gift? Treat someone special to the magic of cinema with a Showcase Cinema gift card!
Make your visit even more memorable with a stop to see everyone’s favourite bear. Head to Westquay to take a seat next to Paddington in celebration of his latest adventure, Paddington in Peru, showing in cinemas 8th November.
Get into the spirit of the season and let your creativity shine! Southampton is brimming with workshops and hands-on activities perfect for all ages. Whether your hand-painting Christmas decorations or making your own wreath, there’s plenty to spark joy and add that personal touch to your holiday season.
For tickets to workshops at Southampton City Art Gallery, SeaCity Museum, and Tudor House & Garden go to seacitymuseum.co.uk/whats-on.
Children can join in a variety of free crafting sessions and activities taking place at IKEA this season. These include a Christmas themed pop-up cinema for families to watch holiday favourites (3rd - 5th December), tree decoration making (17th December) and gingerbread biscuit decorating (19th December).
Plus, don't miss IKEA's annual Santa Lucia Party on 12th December for a deliciously festive 3 course meal, more crafty activities, and candlelit procession.
Booking will become available soon so be sure to visit their events page here.
Families can enjoy two gingerbread-themed days in The Marlands Shopping Centre where you can make your own Christmas tree decoration (7th Dec) or gingerbread person (21st Dec). Visit the gingerbread house for fun photos and spin the gingerbread wheel for children to get a chance to win a free goody bag. Plus, don’t miss their family quiz for a chance to win a family ticket for the Mayflower Theatre.
Head to the theatre for a delightful festive wreath workshop. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as you create a stunning seasonal wreath. Guided by a qualified florist, their workshops offer a relaxed and welcoming environment where creativity can flourish. Book your experience at mayflower.org.uk.
Join the See Southampton heritage guides on a walk through the Christmas past of Southampton! Explore the Western Walls and Vaults, recounting tales of yesteryear referencing historical characters, events and songs. Tours last approx. 90 minutes. Tickets are £7 (accompanied children up to 16 years free) and can be booked by visiting seesouthampton.co.uk.
Step back in time this Christmas with a festive walking tour led by Andy Skinner. Discover how Jane Austen celebrated the holidays, uncover local origins of festive songs, and learn why Christmas 1945 was one to forget. This magical lantern-lit tour explores Southampton’s Old Town, including access to hidden medieval vaults.
Suitable for all ages, the tour lasts 90 minutes and runs at 5pm and 7pm. Meet outside Tudor House and Garden Museum, and don’t forget to bring a torch! To book, visit tudorhouseandgarden.com/whats-on/.
Get your Christmas shopping all wrapped up in Southampton. From high street favourites like Claires, Cards Direct, Ryman and FatFace to local gems like Hai Bao Supermarket, D&G Hardware, The Guitar Store and Rockbottom Toy Store, the city centre has everything you need. Many shops are open late in the run-up to Christmas, giving you extra time to skip the crowds and enjoy even more festive fun. To view the latest store hours for key shops in the city click here.
Looking for gift inspiration? Don't forget to view our gift guide here.
This Christmas, get offers, discounts and more from your favourite Southampton businesses with the SO card.
The SO card is free to use with no sign-up required and features different deals and discounts. From independent stores to national brands in retail, hospitality, leisure, beauty and everything in between there is something for everyone to enjoy.
To view the latest offers and to get your free digital card, click here.
Get ready to savour the season because Southampton is brimming with festive flavours with plenty of delicious options for every taste. For a full list of dining spots, be sure to visit our eat and drink page.
Tuck into a delicious roast at the Duke of Wellington, Ennios, The Grand or The Scholar's Arms or shake things up with something a little different at Padharo, Shanghai Bay, House of Hien, Everest Cuisine, or Sakura - and that’s just the start! There are hundreds of local restaurants and pubs waiting to treat you this season.
In the city you’ll find plenty of festive concoctions to lift your holiday spirits. For those who love a well-crafted cocktail, make your way to Medbar, Deluxe One Oxford, Ava's Cocktail Bar, or Turtle Bay. For those who want to DIY, don’t forget about cocktail masterclasses at Revolutions, Orange Rooms, and Dark Arts Potion Bar.
If a pint is more your style, swing by Yates, The Social, The Bedford, The Cricketers, Tap & Tandoor, Oasis Bar, or The Titanic, for some jolly good brews.
And for a cosy retreat, stop by Muse, The Nest Coffee House, Mettricks, Poppins or Brunch and Barista to enjoy something warm and comforting.
Get ready to make merry this holiday season - whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a lively party, you’ll find just the right spot in Southampton. Hit the dance floor at Buddha Lounge, Fever & Vibe, Grumpy Monkey, One-0-Four, Café Parfait, Popworld or Trilogy for a night of fun and festive beats.
Looking for something more laid back and relaxed? CRIB, Preez, The Mayflower Village, Privé or The White Star Tavern offer great space to plan your own get-together. Visit our latest article here for more venues plan your perfect party.
Add some extra fun and bring out your competitive side this holiday season! Cue up for pool at Rocket Ronnies or Sharkeys, belt out your favourite tunes with karaoke at Boom Battle Bar, go for a strike at Hollywood Bowl, score a bullseye at O’Neill’s, play some games at High Score Arcade, race to escape at Locked in a Room or enjoy a round of table tennis at The Mayflower Village. With so many exciting activities to enjoy, you’re sure to make this Christmas even more memorable. For more to experience this season click here.
If you are in need of some Christmas inspiration explore some of the #OurSouthampton blog posts to discover all things festive in Southampton.
Ready to ring in 2025? Southampton is the place to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style! From buzzing party hotspots to sophisticated soirées, there’s a celebration waiting for everyone. Explore the top New Year’s Eve events happening across the city on our dedicated page here.
Whether you wish to travel by bus, train or ferry, there are plenty of options to plan a hassle-free journey to Southampton, leaving you to focus on the festive fun. The city centre is just a 10-minute walk from Southampton Central train station and the Red Funnel ferry terminal, and we are well served by bus routes for taking advantage of the national £2 single bus fare cap and £1 evening fare. Visit bluestarbus.co.uk or download the App to view timetables and plan your journey.
Southampton is a strong advocate of sustainable travel and it’s easy to get around in the city by bus, cycling, walking or hiring a bike, e-bike or e-scooter.
You can leave the car at home and find the quickest, cheapest, and most eco-friendly options for journeys around the city by downloading the Breeze Travel Planner from the app and play stores.
A big thank you to our Countdown to Christmas and Snow Windows Trail sponsor Brackenwood - find out more here.
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