‘Twas a few weeks before Christmas, and after quite the year,
Visit Herts was searching for some festive cheer,
We searched for christmas events that would bring us some joy
And the businesses gave us gifts worth more than any toy!
We hope our Christmas events leave you merry and bright,
So Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night…
Can you tell we're getting in the Christmas spirit?! Here's your guide to Christmas events in Herts this festive season...
Festive magic at Knebworth
In a beautiful countryside setting just outside Stevenage, Knebworth House transforms into a festive wonderland each winter. From glittering Christmas party nights to joyful family moments with Santa, it’s the go-to spot for seasonal cheer. Shared Party Nights are perfect for smaller groups who still want the big party feel - think great food, music, dancing, and all the sparkle.
The ever-popular Knebworth Christmas Fair returns from 21-23 November, with over 250 stalls across the barns and marquees, perfect for picking up handmade gifts, festive treats and decorations galore. Early access from 9:30am is available for Premium ticket holders.
The historic Knebworth Barns are also home to festive party nights throughout December. Whether you're planning a private soirée or joining a shared night of revelry, expect delicious food, atmospheric settings and plenty of sparkle. Contact the events team for bespoke packages.
For families, Dine with Santa continues to delight with festive food, crafts and storytelling from Father Christmas himself. It's all part of Knebworth’s year-round calendar of seasonal fun, making it a place to return to again and again.
St Albans: Christmas on Stage and in the Streets
Get ready for festive flair in St Albans this winter, starting with OVO’s acclaimed open-air production of A Christmas Carol, back with a magical twist in a soon-to-be-announced venue. Running from November through December 2025, this unique 60-minute retelling of Dickens’ classic promises laughter, wonder and a dose of seasonal sentiment for the whole family.
In the heart of the city, the Enjoy St Albans Christmas programme lights up the season with markets, music and community spirit. It all begins on 16 November with the St Albans Christmas Cracker, a lively free event filled with food, arts & crafts, live entertainment, and festive cheer. Events continue throughout December, check listings here to plan your visit.
Lights, Magic, Action: Hertfordshire’s Biggest Christmas Light Trail
Step into a world of sparkle and wonder as Hertfordshire’s biggest Christmas Light Trail returns from 27 November 2025 to 1 January 2026. Set within stunning Grade II* listed gardens of Ashridge House, this enchanting trail features over 20 dazzling light installations, with new surprises alongside returning favourites. It's a feast for the senses, designed to delight all ages - from tiny tots to festive-loving grown-ups. And for those bringing four-legged friends, dog-friendly nights every Wednesday and Thursday mean no one gets left behind.
A Fairy Tale Christmas in Welwyn Garden City
Dust off your glass slippers and get ready for the most magical panto season yet at Campus West, where Cinderella takes centre stage for 2025! Expect laughter, sparkle and songs galore, plus a cheeky twist with the adults-only version, Sinderella, running alongside it.
With dazzling costumes, hilarious moments and enchanting storytelling, this is a pantomime for all ages (and all senses of humour). But don’t let this one slip away, the best seats in the royal ballroom go quickly!
Polar Bears and Presents at Tring’s Natural History Museum
From 29 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, head to Natural History Museum at Tring for a special festive trail like no other. Join Snowy the Polar Bear as he journeys through the galleries, delivering gifts and meeting animals from around the world.
The Polar Bear Trail is perfect for ages 3+, with a fun £1 quiz sheet available from the shop. Spot hidden polar bears, solve clues and enjoy festive fun for the whole family. Just remember, the museum is closed on Mondays, and school holidays are extra busy, so book your free entry ticket in advance.
Sleigh Bells & Supercars
Swap baubles for burnouts and tinsel for turbo at Drift Limits, where Christmas parties come with an adrenaline rush. Just outside Hemel Hempstead, this one-of-a-kind venue ditches the usual pizza and bowling night for a track-day experience you’ll never forget. Guests can get behind the wheel of supercars, drift legends and race-ready beasts, with packages tailored to every group size and festive whim. There’s delicious catering, unforgettable photo ops, and when the tyres cool down, they’ll even drop you into London, St Albans, or Watford to carry on the celebration. It’s Christmas, but not as you know it.
Seasonal Surprises in Stevenage
Stevenage Town Centre is keeping the magic alive with a month-long celebration this December. Follow the Christmas Trail through town, and don’t miss the Christmas Special: Kid Zone on Saturday 6 December, a day dedicated to family-friendly fun.
All events are free to attend, and full schedules will be announced on the Stevenage Borough Council website and via their social media channels. (Facebook: @stevenagetowncentre | X: @lovestevenagetc)
Deck the Halls (and the Dancefloor)
Set within the elegant surrounds of Pendley Manor, these traditional Christmas party nights are all about good food, great company, and dancing ‘til late. Whether you're gathering with colleagues, friends or family, expect a festive feast, sparkling atmosphere and plenty of merrymaking. At £64.95 per person, it’s a brilliant way to kick off the season - just don’t forget to pre-order your menu four weeks in advance. With roaring fires, twinkling trees and a welcoming team to help plan your night, it’s Christmas done properly.
A Grand Christmas Escape
Step into the warmth of Christmas at Down Hall, a stunning Italianate mansion set in 110 acres of beautiful countryside. From glitzy party nights and festive afternoon teas to Santa brunches and Christmas Day lunches, it’s the kind of place where the halls are decked, the fires are glowing, and the only thing missing is you. Enjoy a three-day festive break filled with Champagne, carol singers, film nights, buffets and even duck herding, or pop in for a single event like their famous Glitz & Glamour nights or indulgent Boxing Day lunch. Whether you're after family-friendly magic or grown-up sparkle, Down Hall makes Christmas unforgettable.
