Christmas in Oxford is always a special time of year, with festive markets, sparkling lights, family attractions, seasonal performances and unique independent shopping opportunities across the city.
From November through to the New Year, residents and visitors can enjoy a packed programme of events, discover local businesses and soak up the festive atmosphere in Oxford's streets, theatres, parks and shopping destinations.
What’s On Across Oxford
Christmas in Oxford Market - The Christmas in Oxford market returns to Broad Street with festive traders, seasonal food and drink, and Christmas gifts in the heart of the city.
Oxford Victorian Christmas Market - The popular Oxford Victorian Christmas Market returns to Broad Street, bringing festive stalls, seasonal food and drink, unique gifts and entertainment to the city centre.
Oxford's Christmas Light Festival - Oxford's Christmas Light Festival returns with a vibrant programme of illuminated installations, performances and community events celebrating creativity, culture and the festive season.
Oxford Christmas Light Bus - The much-loved open-top Christmas Light Bus returns, decked out in hundreds of twinkling lights, offering a unique way to experience Oxford's festive celebrations.
Oxford Playhouse: Snow White - Oxford Playhouse presents its annual pantomime, Snow White, packed with music, comedy and family-friendly festive fun.
The Holiday in Concert - Film with Live Orchestra - Experience the beloved Christmas film accompanied by a live orchestra at New Theatre Oxford.
Oxford Botanic Garden Christmas Fair - Browse festive gifts and seasonal produce in the beautiful surroundings of Oxford Botanic Garden.
Small Business Saturday - Celebrate Oxford's independent businesses during this national campaign encouraging residents to shop local and support the city's thriving small business community.
A Christmas Carol Continues - Enjoy this festive production at Oxford's Old Fire Station, offering a fresh take on the classic Dickens story.
Annie - The smash-hit musical Annie comes to New Theatre Oxford for a festive run over Christmas and New Year.
Christmas Tree Trail
Explore Oxford's festive Christmas Tree Trail through the Discover Oxford app and discover decorated trees across the city centre.
Download the Discover Oxford app
Westgate Oxford Christmas events
Stick Man Trail - Families can follow an interactive Stick Man trail around Westgate Oxford, collecting stamps along the way and earning a small prize once they've completed their booklet.
Santa and Friends Festive Entertainment - Enjoy festive storytelling, singing and entertainment with Santa and his elves throughout December. Dedicated early years and SEND-friendly sessions will also be available.
Community Christmas Choirs - Local choirs will perform throughout the festive period, bringing seasonal music to visitors across the centre.
Community Gift Wrapping - Support local charities while getting your Christmas gifts wrapped by volunteers.
Christmas Lights - Westgate Oxford's festive lights will illuminate the shopping centre throughout the Christmas season.
Oxford Covered Market
Oxford Covered Market will once again be offering festive shopping, dining and seasonal events throughout the Christmas period, showcasing many of Oxford's independent businesses.
Christmas and New Year Opening Hours
Thursday 24 December: 8am - 4pm
Friday 25 December: Closed
Saturday 26 December: Closed
Thursday 31 December: 8am - 4pm
Friday 1 January: Closed
Black Friday
Friday 20 November - Thursday 3 December 2026
Oxford's businesses will be offering promotions and special offers as part of the Christmas in Oxford campaign. Visitors can enjoy discounts, seasonal offers and festive shopping opportunities across the city centre.
Oxford Outdoor Market
Christmas and New Year Opening Hours
Wednesday 23 December: Open
Thursday 24 December: Closes at 2pm
Friday 25 December: Closed
Saturday 26 December: Closed
Wednesday 30 December to Saturday 2 January: Closed
Wednesday 6 January: Open as usual
Plan Your Visit
If you are visiting Christmas in Oxford this year, please consider travelling by bus, bike, on foot, train, or Park & Ride wherever possible.
Travel
If you are visiting Christmas in Oxford this year, the Council encourages travel by bus, bike, walking, Park & Ride, or train wherever possible. To look at options or plan your journey, head to the Oxford Travel Options website.
