Christmas in Preston: A Season of Festive Events

The magic of Christmas is descending upon Preston, and the city is ready to celebrate in style. This year's lineup of Christmas events in Preston promises a season of togetherness, joy, and festive celebrations, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

From enchanting light displays to heartwarming family films, creative workshops to choir showcases, the city is set to come alive with the spirit of the season in a series of free and paid for events and activities.

Baby's First Christmas Bauble - Guild Hall Foyer | Tuesday 14 November | 11am - 11.30am | £14 +booking fee

Capturing your baby's handprints and footprints painted onto a Christmas bauble makes a very special keepsake. Fired 4 U use non-toxic paints which wash off the baby's skin and clothing easily.

Switch On Trail - Saturday 18 November | 2:15pm and 3:30pm | Free

The Snowman and The Snowdog will be joined by Shrek, Santa, and Coronation Street's Anthony Cotton, plus more special guests. They'll be at the Fishergate Centre from 2:15pm, and Cannon Street from 3:30pm.

Christmas Light Switch On - Flag Market | Saturday 18 November | 5:30pm - 8pm | Free

Witness the illumination of Preston as it comes alive with festive lights! The event features a packed lineup of special guests and performers, including the hugely popular Max and Harvey, soul and disco legends, Odyssey, and Corrie legend Anthony Cotton.

Lino Printing Workshop - Guild Hall Foyer | Wednesday 22 November | 1pm - 4pm | £45 +booking fee

Learn how to create a beautiful festive print block using linocut with The Little Art House. Using specialist tools you will explore how to make marks and create a range of effects and will have fun experimenting with colour to create a range of prints and cards with a winter theme.

Calligraphy Workshop - Guild Hall Foyer | Wednesday 29 November | 11am - 1pm | £39 +booking fee

Discover the art of calligraphy with Mellor & Rose. This workshop offers a chance to explore this elegant writing style, along with creating your own gift tags and greetings card all in beautiful lettering.

Choir Showcase - Flag Market | Saturday 2 December | 2pm - 3pm | Free

Join over 100 singers from different choirs coming together to sing all their favourite Carols and Christmas songs. Including Women Rockin' Harmony, Red Rosettes, Ribble Rousers, Intact Singers, Soundskills Songsters boosted by Bolton Belters.

Design a Personalised Christmas Eve Plate - Guild Hall Foyer | Saturday 2 December | 11am - 12.30pm | £20 +booking fee

Create a cherished family tradition by crafting a personalised Christmas Eve plate with Fired 4 U. A delightful hands-on activity. Once the design is complete, the plates will be glazed and kiln-fired.

Fire Garden - Avenham and Miller Parks | Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 December | 6:30pm - 9pm | Free

Step into a world of wonder at Preston's first Fire Garden. Feel the heat as dazzling fire sculptures transform Avenham & Miller Parks into a place of magic and excitement.

Three Georgian Christmases in Winckley Square - Talk - Central Methodist Church, Lune St | Thursdays 7 and 14 December | 1:30pm - 3:30pm | £6.50

Step back in time to explore the festive traditions of three Georgian Christmases. Enjoy a Georgian Christmas slide show followed by an enlightening talk by Susan Douglass.

Arthur Christmas (PG) - Guild Hall Foyer | Saturday 9 December | 11am - 12:40pm | £2 Adults / £1 Children

Gather the family for a heartwarming holiday film. Join Arthur, Santa's son, on a delightful adventure to save Christmas in this animated classic.

Santa's Grotto - Preston Markets | Saturday 9 December | Various times between 11am - 2:40pm | Free

The Markets will host the city's free Santa's Grotto, come and visit Santa and let him know what you want for Christmas this year.

Makers Market - Flag Market | Saturday 9 December | 10:00am - 4pm | Free

Discover a treasure trove of unique holiday gifts and handcrafted items at the Makers Market. Support local artisans and find the perfect presents for loved ones.

Winckley Christmas Concert - Winckley Square | Sunday 10 December | 3pm - 5:30pm | Free

Celebrate the season with a festive Christmas concert in the heart of Winckley Square. Enjoy an evening of beautiful music and holiday cheer.

Anna and the Apocalypse (15) - Guild Hall Foyer | Wednesday 13 December | 7.30pm - 9:10pm | £2

Join the quirky characters of Anna and the Apocalypse for a unique twist on a holiday film. This lively movie combines comedy, horror, and heartwarming moments.

Cannon Street Christmas Market - Cannon Street | Thursday 14 December | Until 7pm | Free

Explore festive market stalls, filled with unique gifts and treats. Be sure to sip on a comforting hot chocolate or mulled wine while listening to the singing Mrs. Christmas.

Magio Strings - String Quartet Christmas Music - Fishergate Centre | Friday 8 and Thursday 14 December | 12:00pm - 3pm | Free

Prepare to be serenaded this festive season as the illustrious Magio Strings grace Fishergate Shopping Centre with enchanting Christmas harmonies.

The Muppet Christmas Carol - Guild Hall Foyer | Saturday 16 December | 11am - 12:30pm | £2 Adults / £1 Children

Experience the magic of the Muppets in this timeless holiday classic. Join Kermit, Miss Piggy, and all your favourite characters for a heartwarming Christmas tale.

Victorian Choir - Preston Markets | Saturday 16 December | Various Times | Free

Feel all festive this season with a visit to Preston Markets to enjoy classic Victorian carol singers performing an array of traditional Christmas carols. Look out for Santa as he makes his way around the markets giving out gifts.

Visit Santa - Fishergate Centre | Saturdays 9, 16, 23 December | 12pm - 3:00pm | Free

Set against a beautifully crafted Christmas scene, you'll get the chance to meet the jolly man himself.

Councillor Peter Kelly, Cabinet member for Arts and Culture at Preston City Council, said:

"As we light up the streets of Preston, this holiday season promises a tapestry of joy and excitement for all. Join us, as we kindle the spirit of community and create lasting memories, celebrating the most wonderful time of the year in Preston."