It’s always a good time to visit Reading but if you’re lucky enough to be here over the festive season, everything has a little extra sparkle. There are dozens of fun things to do in Reading all year round and at Christmas, this list expands to include pantos, Christmas parties, illuminated walkways, Parades, Christmas markets and so much more. Before you add to your bucket list, book the ideal family-friendly accommodation in Reading. Our serviced apartment accommodation in the heart of Reading Town has all of the home comforts you need to settle in fast and enjoy the festivities. Our Christmas accommodation offers in PREMIER SUITES Reading are exclusively available on our website.
Christmas Lights in Reading
The magic starts on 18th November 2023 with the annual switching on of the Christmas lights. This marks the beginning of the festivities and what promises to be another busy season in Reading. An estimated 400,000 lights will twinkle to life alongside the Broad Street Christmas tree, with Christmas food and drink stalls lining the streets. Live Christmas music will set the scene, playing from 1:30pm to 4:30pm. It’s a great opportunity to start the festive season with your family or friends.Â
Christmas Panto in Reading
While there are dozens of shows, plays, and performances in reading around the festive season, it’s also the time for a Christmas tradition we all love, the Panto. The Hexagon, the largest theatre in Reading with a capacity of 1200, is usually the biggest and best show in town, and this year is no different. They’re retelling the classic story of Sleeping Beauty from 9th December to 7th January and putting a very special twist on the tale. Join the Princess and her friends as they try to defeat the wicked fairy Carabosse’s evil curse and her sleeping curse with songs, dances, costumes, and surprises along the way. Tickets range from £14 to £37.50.
Reading Advent
Advent is a very special time in the Christian calendar and a time for all people to come together. It usually runs from 1st until 24th December and ends with a feast and celebration on Christmas day. This year, Reading is celebrating 24 events over the 24 days as part of a living advent calendar, each in a different town centre location. Enjoy music, theatre, Christmas character appearances, and of course very special visits from Father Christmas. There will be a lantern parade through the town centre on 2nd December, the second event of the celebration. Whether you want to take part in the parade or not, the procession is sure to be a very special evening.
Reading Winter Wonderland
Reading Winter Wonderland returns to Forbury Gardens on November 12th remaining until January 2nd. You can expect to see an Après Ski Bar, a real ice skating rink (sheltered so suitable for all weather), Santa’s grotto, and a wide variety of festive food and drinks to keep you full of festive joy. Though the event is free to enter, many of the attractions are ticketed and we recommend advance booking to avoid disappointment. Make festive memories with your friends and family before returning to PREMIER SUITES for a takeaway and some of your favourite Christmas movies.
Christmas Fair at Ascot
Ascot is a great day out year-round but it’s extra special at Christmas. from Thursday 16th to Sunday 19th November 2023 the racecourse turns into a winter wonderland and a great place to start your Christmas shopping. There will be 150 gift, food, and homeware stalls selling an array of Christmas gifts and stocking fillers. With an emphasis on local and independent suppliers, you’re sure to find something unique you’d never find on the high street. Tickets are available for £9 at the door but only £5 online in advance and under 16s are free. Ascot is also a great choice for an end-of-year party with both exclusive and shared Christmas party packages available.
Legoland at Christmas
If you’ve never been to Legoland at Christmas, you’re in for a treat. From November 25, Legoland will again transform itself into a Christmas wonderland. You can enjoy Duplo Christmas trees and Lego Santas, live entertainment, and a festive mini village with fun for all of the family. There will be lots of festive scenes hidden in Miniland for little builders to discover. There will be live entertainment and characters to meet plus a selection of amazing rides. You can upgrade your standard theme park ticket with a Father Christmas upgrade so you can see this very special Santa.
If you’re planning a family trip to Reading, PREMIER SUITES is the ideal accommodation. Christmas is Better When Families are Together, and our package gives your family all of the space they need to enjoy it. Our Festive Cheer package is ideal for couples and friends with a complimentary bottle of prosecco, an early check-in, late check-out, and lots of exclusive discounts with our restaurant and retail partners. Book these extra special packages exclusively on our website.
