A Quirky Christmas
With Christmas on the horizon, there’s lots of different festive events happening throughout Northamptonshire. Whilst Santa's Grottos are fun, why not spice it up this year and do something a little different? Here are our top 5 picks for some unique festive events this December!
Winter Light Trail - Delapré Abbey
Step into an enchanting, illuminated trail around the grounds of Northampton’s Delapré Abbey. Watch faces light up in wonder at festive surprises around every corner. From interactive displays, captivating soundscapes and larger than life illuminations, this year’s Winter Light Trail is the place to create unforgettable memories with loved ones! Embark on a glittering adventure this winter and discover over 1 mile of magical illuminations, captivating soundscapes and interactive displays, throughout Delapré Abbey’s stunning grounds and woodland. There's not just lights either. There's a ton to explore around the grounds - Apres ski lodge bar & chalets, Local independent food vendors, Kids funfair amusements, Marshmallow toasting, and so much more!
The trail is open everyday from the 22nd November 2024 to the 31st December 2024.
Victorian Christmas - Rockingham Castle
Enjoy a unique experience at Rockingham Castle’s Victorian Christmas event! Guides will be in each room of the Castle, in full character and telling the stories of the Castle on Christmas Eve 1849. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to encounter Charles Dickens himself, as he roams on weekends. He’ll be interacting with visitors, sharing tales of his own holiday traditions, and engaging with the costumed guides as they prepare for Christmas and a Servants’ Ball to celebrate his visit. Step into a lively scene from Christmas past and meet one of history’s most beloved storytellers!
Weekday guided tours are taking place on Thursday 28th November 2024, Friday 29th November 2024,Thursday 5th December 2024, & Friday 6th December 2024.
Weekend free flowing tours are available on Saturday 30th November 2024, Sunday 1st December 2024, Saturday 7th December 2024, & Sunday 8th December 2024.
Twist & Shout Daytime Shows - Wicksteed Park
Step into the enchanting world of Wicksteed Park’s Twist and Shout! Get your dancing shoes on as audiences will be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of the 60’s and a sprinkling of Christmas classics to get you in the festive mood! Indulge in a two-course Christmas lunch served at 12:00pm, treating your taste buds to seasonal delights. The first half of the show unfolds from 1:30pm to 2:15pm, promising heart-warming entertainment. Take a delightful break during the interval from 2:15pm to 3:00pm, and then cosy up for the show’s second half, from 3:00pm to 3:45pm.
The shows are taking place on multiple dates - Wednesday 4th December 2024, Wednesday 11th December 2024, and Thursday 12th December 2024.
Please note - This event is 18+ only.
Festive Handbell Ringing - Canons Ashby
Enjoy the festive sounds of the Launton Handbell ringers in the beautiful acoustics of the Priory Church at Canons Ashby between 11.30am and 12.15pm. Wrap up warm and take a pew to enjoy their beautiful music. Don’t miss the house - which will be all dressed up for an Arthurian Christmas - before or afterwards. Normal admission prices apply, but no booking needed.
The event is taking place on Saturday 7th December 2024, between 11:30am and 12:15pm.
Christmas Tractor Run - Brackley
Once more, Brackley will be raising money for the charity Yellow Wellies. Yellow Wellies is an award-winning charity that supports the physical and mental well-being of UK farmers. In 2023, they raised £3,284.00. Incredible! But can they do even better this year? Brackley hope to bring you between 50-100 tractors who will participate by decorating their tractors with lights, tinsel, and other Christmas decorations. Spectators gather along the route to watch the parade of tractors pass by – please give them a wave as they drive past!
The tractor run will begin at 6pm on Sunday 8th December 2024 and covers a predetermined route through the town.
