Oxford City Council welcomes Christmas with the return of festive celebrations on Broad Street and across the city.
Christmas in Oxford is always a special time in the city and this year there is a host of enchanting events to bring cheer to residents and visitors alike. At the heart of this year’s festivities is an exciting new Christmas event on Broad Street, organised by Keston Events Ltd.
From 23 November 2024 to 5 January 2025, Broad Street will be transformed into a vibrant Christmas destination, offering a fresh take on the city’s festive celebrations.
Keston Events Ltd will use the space in a different way to previous years and the event will feature a variety of new activities and experiences for local families, community groups, and visitors.
Highlights from the event include:
- Live music featuring traditional carols and performances by local choirs and musicians
- Entertainment from community and local groups
- Festive street food
- The Alpine Lodge, a cosy two-storey bar where visitors can enjoy mulled wine, spiced cider, and other festive favourites
- Family-friendly attractions including a carousel
- Stalls with unique gifts, artisanal crafts, and seasonal treats
The new features are not the only change this year. Festivities will begin earlier and run throughout the Christmas period and into the new year.
This gives people more time to buy gifts in the run-up to Christmas and offers an exciting option for people coming into the city for Boxing Day sales and over New Year.
Keston Events Ltd is known for organising events such as Kingston Christmas Market and Gun Wharf Quays Christmas Village. It was selected as the preferred provider earlier this year following interest from various organisations.
Keston Events Ltd is working closely with the Council, local businesses, and stakeholders, and is committed to delivering a memorable event this Christmas.
Other festive highlights across Oxford
Oxford’s festive celebrations extend beyond Broad Street, with a range of events and activities across the city, including:
- The Covered Market’s 250th Christmas: Celebrate this historic milestone with special events, including late-night shopping, and a Christmas wish tree
- The Lord Mayor of Oxford’s Carol Concert: Oxford Town Hall will welcome Oxfordshire Schools’ Symphony Orchestra plus special guests for a magical afternoon of festive music and song
- Gloucester Green Market late nights: Explore unique gifts, street food, and mulled wine every Friday evening from 22 November to 13 December
- Westgate Christmas Village: Leiden Square will transform into a Christmas village complete with festive food huts, and gifting stalls from 16 November to 5 January 2025
- Christmas at Oxford Castle & Prison: Meet Father Christmas and enjoy festive activities on select dates from 26 November to 23 December
- The Oxford Christmas Light Bus: Organised by Oxford Bus Company and partners, this illuminated open-top bus will spread festive cheer across the city on Saturdays in December.
- Bright Nights Festival at The Old Fire Station: A spectacular blend of performances, workshops, and festive magic that’s sure to make the season unforgettable.
For more details and events across the city, visit the Christmas in Oxford webpage or follow the Council on social media.
Travel this Christmas
If you are visiting Christmas in Oxford this year, the Council encourages travel by bus, bike, walking, Park & Ride, or train wherever possible.
Comment
“Christmas in Oxford is always a magical time, and this year’s celebrations promise to be truly special!
“With a new event on Broad Street and festive activities across the city, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
“These events not only bring joy to residents and visitors but provide a fantastic boost to the local economy.
“I encourage everyone to come into the city, soak up the festive atmosphere, and support our brilliant local businesses this Christmas.”
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council
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