Discover the Magic of Christmas in Coventry: Your Ultimate 2024 Guide
Coventry is ready to celebrate Christmas with an exciting lineup of events, lights, markets, and entertainment for all ages. Here’s your guide to making the most of the city’s holiday season.
1. Luminate Light Trail at Coombe Abbey Park
Returning by popular demand, the Luminate Light Trail at Coombe Abbey Park is set to dazzle visitors from November 20, 2024, to January 1, 2025. This immersive mile-long trail weaves through sparkling lights and captivating displays, all set to a heartwarming soundtrack. Perfect for an enchanting evening with family or friends, this illuminated experience is a must-see.
2. Christmas at Coventry Cathedral
Experience Coventry Cathedral’s festive events, where you’ll find something for everyone. From Christmas carol services to movie screenings and craft workshops, the Cathedral embraces holiday traditions and new favourites. Services and family events run throughout December, providing a tranquil setting for seasonal gatherings.
3. St Mary’s Guildhall Victorian Christmas
St Mary’s Guildhall will offer a nostalgic, Victorian-themed Christmas experience this year, with historical storytelling, beautiful decorations, and a special Father Christmas appearance. Running through December 2024, this attraction promises to transport you back in time with Dickensian charm and festive cheer.
4. Enchanted Kingdom at Hatton Adventure World
Visit Hatton Adventure World’s Winter Wonderland, where families can meet Santa, explore festive activities, and enjoy Christmas shows. This magical experience, open from November 25 to December 24, 2024, offers an immersive holiday adventure.
5. Festive Market and Big Wheel in Broadgate
Broadgate becomes Coventry’s Christmas hub once again with a dazzling Big Wheel and a bustling festive market. From November 18, 2024, to January 6, 2025, explore the market’s array of holiday treats, crafts, and gifts, while the Big Wheel offers spectacular city views daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (except Christmas Day).
6. Santa’s Sleigh Rides and Workshops
Coventry’s Santa Sleigh Rides are back, with several magical options for families. Take a classic sleigh ride at Coventry Transport Museum, where children can meet Santa, explore winter scenes, and collect gifts. For a high-tech twist, try the VR sleigh ride at West Orchards Shopping Centre on Level 3, where you can “fly” across the world with Santa. Runs from December 1 to December 23, 2024.
Another memorable option awaits at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre, where visitors can board a festive train journey through a sparkling winter wonderland to meet Santa and his mischievous elf in their toy workshop.
7. Christmas Markets Galore
The Coventry Christmas Market in Broadgate is a must-visit for food, drinks, and unique gifts. Fargo Village’s Makers Market also returns, featuring local artists and independent vendors across two weekends in December.
Get in a festive mood at St. Barbara’s Christmas Fair in Earlsdon! Perfect for Christmas shopping, this fair includes a great selection of stalls including local crafters and independent businesses as well as a tombola and refreshments from the Earlsdon WI.
8. Show-Stopping Theatre Performances
This year’s Christmas theatre lineup in Coventry is a treat for all ages. The Belgrade Theatre’s beloved pantomime returns with Dick Whittington running from November 29, 2024, to January 5, 2025. Expect lavish costumes, unforgettable music, and plenty of laughs.
Meanwhile, The Albany Theatre presents Alice In Wonderland, a classic perfect for the holiday season, set to run through most of December. For families with young children, The Smeg and The Smog at Warwick Arts Centre promises songs, laughter, and adventure in this interactive performance ideal for ages three and up.