There’s plenty to look forward to in Gloucester over November and December, as the city gets ready to celebrate the festive season with a fantastic programme of events, entertainment, shopping, culture and community activities.
From the much-loved Christmas celebrations and spectacular Lantern Parade to discovering the city's independent shops, enjoying a festive meal or exploring Gloucester's rich heritage, there are lots of reasons to get out, get together and make the most of everything our city has to offer.
Whether you're planning a family day out, meeting friends, organising a work get-together or simply looking for a little festive inspiration, Gloucester has something for everyone.
November: Festive celebrations begin
November is when Gloucester really starts to sparkle, with a packed programme of activities for all ages.
Gloucester Lantern Parade and Tree of Light Switch-On – Saturday 14 November
One of the highlights of the city's festive calendar, the Gloucester Lantern Parade returns on Saturday 14 November, bringing colour, creativity and a wonderful community atmosphere to the city centre.
This year's parade features maritime-inspired lantern creations made by local schools and community groups, looking ahead to the 200th anniversary of Gloucester Docks in 2027.
The celebrations begin with a carol service at Gloucester Cathedral at 4pm, followed by the parade setting off from College Green at 4.50pm. The procession will travel through the city centre, around Kings Square and finish at the Museum of Gloucester.
The celebrations continue in Kings Square with the Tree of Light Switch-On at 5.45pm, hosted by BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Jon Smith, with music and entertainment including the Salvation Army Band.
It's a wonderful opportunity to come together, enjoy the festive atmosphere and welcome the start of the Christmas season. Both events are free to attend.
Gloucester Quays Christmas Markets – Weekends from 7 November to 20 December
The much-loved Gloucester Quays Christmas Markets return across seven weekends, bringing more than 120 traders to the historic Docks.
Visitors can browse an excellent selection of independent traders, handmade gifts, crafts, homewares, Christmas decorations and locally produced foodie treats. There will also be plenty of street food and pop-up bars to enjoy.
With free entry and a changing selection of traders each weekend, it's the perfect opportunity to find those special Christmas gifts while supporting independent businesses and enjoying everything the waterfront has to offer.
Market dates: 7–8 November, 14–15 November, 21–22 November, 28–29 November, 5–6 December, 12–13 December, 19–20 December.
Ice skating returns to Gloucester Quays from 20 November
Get your skates ready! The outdoor ice rink returns to Gloucester Quays from 20 November and will remain open until 3 January 2027.
Whether you're planning a family outing, catching up with friends or organising a festive get-together with colleagues, the rink offers a lovely seasonal experience. And if skating isn't quite your thing, there's always the option of enjoying a hot chocolate and soaking up the atmosphere from the sidelines.
More November events to enjoy
There's much more happening beyond the big festive celebrations:
7 November: Decorative Lantern Workshop, Museum of Gloucester: Get creative and make a lantern ready for the following weekend's parade.
7 November: Devon at Gloucester Guildhall: Enjoy a hometown headline performance from the Forest of Dean band.
15 November: Rabbit & Rey, Gloucester Guildhall: A family-friendly theatrical adventure featuring puppetry and visual storytelling.
21 November: Christmas Revels, St Mary de Crypt: A two-day celebration of markets, music, entertainment, workshops, dancing and a traditional Christmas Saunter.
21 November: Handel's Messiah by Candlelight, Gloucester Cathedral: Enjoy this much-loved musical masterpiece in the magnificent surroundings of the Cathedral.
26 November: Christmas at the Movies, Gloucester Cathedral: The Great British Film Orchestra brings much-loved festive film music to life.
There's also a programme of creative workshops, exhibitions, live music, storytelling, comedy, quizzes and performances taking place throughout the month.
December: Make the most of Christmas in Gloucester
As December arrives, Gloucester is the perfect place to enjoy the build-up to Christmas. The markets continue, the ice rink is in full swing and the city offers plenty of opportunities to celebrate with friends, family and colleagues.
Christmas shopping and supporting local businesses
Whether you're looking for something a little different, a special present or those last-minute stocking fillers, Gloucester has plenty to offer.
Explore the independent shops throughout the city centre, browse the Christmas Markets at the Docks and discover the shopping and dining experiences at Gloucester Quays. From unique gifts and handmade crafts to fashion, food and homeware, there are lots of reasons to shop locally this Christmas.
And while you're out and about, why not stop for a coffee, enjoy lunch with friends or book a festive meal at one of Gloucester's many restaurants, cafés and historic pubs?
Festive food, drink and celebrations
December is also the time to get together. From festive afternoon teas and Christmas menus to party nights, live entertainment and seasonal experiences, local venues are ready to welcome visitors.
Whether it's a Christmas lunch with colleagues, a night out with friends or a family celebration, make a date to enjoy Gloucester's hospitality and support the businesses that make our city such a great place to visit. - WATCH OUT FOR ANOTHER ARTICLE
Culture, creativity and entertainment
Gloucester's cultural venues have plenty planned throughout the festive period, offering something a little different alongside the Christmas celebrations.
Some December highlights include:
1 December – Guildhall Comedy Club: An evening of comedy featuring new touring comedians and local MC Nik Hill.
2 December – Jesus Jones at Gloucester Guildhall: The band celebrates 35 years of their chart-topping album Doubt.
3 December – Gloucester Storytelling Café, The Folk of Gloucester: An evening of stories and entertainment in a historic setting.
5 December – Sleigh, Sip and Sing at Coal Kitchen: A festive bottomless brunch with drag performers and Christmas singalong favourites.
19 December – Nature Journal Workshop, Museum of Gloucester: A creative seasonal activity for adults and children.
There are also festive craft workshops, family activities, exhibitions, live performances and opportunities to discover more about Gloucester's heritage.
Discover Gloucester this Christmas
Of course, you don't need a ticket to enjoy everything Gloucester has to offer.
Take time to explore the magnificent Gloucester Cathedral and its historic surroundings, discover the city's heritage at the Museum of Gloucester, enjoy a walk around the historic Gloucester Docks or visit the independent shops, cafés and historic pubs dotted throughout the city centre.
The festive season is also a brilliant opportunity to support local businesses. Every purchase made locally, every meal enjoyed in a city restaurant and every coffee bought from an independent café helps support the people and businesses that make Gloucester special.
Whether you're visiting for the Christmas Markets, enjoying the ice rink, attending a performance or simply meeting friends for a festive catch-up, make a day of it and explore a little more of the city.
Make Gloucester part of your Christmas celebrations
November and December are wonderful months to come together, celebrate and enjoy our city. With so much happening across Gloucester, there really is no need to travel far to find festive fun, entertainment, shopping and memorable experiences.
So, wrap up warm, invite your friends and family, organise that work get-together and come and enjoy everything Gloucester has to offer.
Let's celebrate local, support local and make this Christmas one to remember in Gloucester!
THE WINTER BROCHURE WILL BE OUT NEXT WEEK - PICK ONE UP FROM THE MUSEUM OF GLOUCESTER OR ST MICHAELS TOWER
For the full programme of events, dates, times and booking information, visit:
Visit Gloucester – What's On November and December 2026
Please check individual event listings for ticket availability, booking requirements and any changes to dates or times.
