Bolton Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Bolton and surrounding areas

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Christmas Parties (27 events) Christmas Markets (16 events) Christmas Lights (13 events) Christmas Shows (9 events) Other Christmas Activities (33 events)

Bolton lights up for Christmas 2025 with Holiday lights around Victoria Square and a schedule of festive events that brings families into the town centre. From concerts to seasonal markets, there are activities and attractions to suit all tastes. Check Bolton's Holiday Activities and Food Programme, the Christmas in Bolton Programme and My First Father Christmas Experience for community events, parades and memorable family fun.

Find the best Bolton Christmas happenings this year!

Bolton Christmas Events

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Christmas Parties

27 events
DAY RAVE - Xmas Sesh • Dec 6

5th installment of a popular day rave with classic anthems.

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Christmas Markets

16 events
Christmas at the Farm

Immersive Father Christmas farm headquarters experience

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Christmas Lights

13 events
Ignite Fire Festival and Rochdale Christmas Lights Switch-on • Nov 21 – Nov 23

Spectacular fire art installations and Christmas lights switch-on.

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Christmas Shows

9 events
Snowstorm ‘Firebird’ Spectacular Ice Show • Dec 6 – Jan 5, 2025

Spectacular ice and circus show with a winter theme.

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Other Christmas Activities

33 events
The Grotto at Trafford Centre

Magical Santa encounter with immersive winter scenes

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Editor's Picks (6)

  1. Ignite Fire Festival and Rochdale Christmas Lights Switch-on (Rochdale)
    Spectacular fire art installations and Christmas lights switch-on.
  2. East Lancashire Railway Santa Specials (Bury)
    Magical steam train journey with Santa Claus
  3. The Grotto at Trafford Centre (Manchester)
    Magical Santa encounter with immersive winter scenes
  4. Ribble Steam Railway Santa Specials 2025 (Preston)
    Father Christmas visits each child on a steam train.
  5. Light Night Wigan (Wigan)
    Free festival of light artworks in Mesnes Park
  6. Christmas at the Farm (Blackburn)
    Immersive Father Christmas farm headquarters experience

This Week / Coming Up (6)

Yuletide - A Glittering Winter Adventure Sat, Nov 15
Burnley Believes...And So Do We! Light Switch-On Sat, Nov 15
Darwen Christmas Lights Switch On 2025 Sat, Nov 15
Rochdale Christmas Events Fri, Nov 21
Christmas at Tatton Park Sat, Nov 22
Heaton Fold Artisan Markets Sun, Nov 23

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Also Near Bolton

Bury

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Wigan

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Chorley

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Bolton Christmas FAQ

What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Bolton?

The Put Big Light On Festival is one of Bolton's biggest annual Christmas events, featuring free light art installations and street entertainment in the town centre each November.

What holiday traditions are unique to Bolton?

Bolton celebrates the festive season with community-focused events like the Put Big Light On Festival, which combines local creativity with immersive light art, reflecting the town's spirit and resilience.

Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Bolton?

While the town centre hosts major displays, several residential neighborhoods around Bolton are known for their charming neighborhood displays and holiday lights worth visiting.

Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Bolton?

Christmas markets and local artisan fairs are typically held in community venues and public squares throughout Bolton, offering vendor stalls with crafts, gifts, and festive food & drink.

What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Bolton?

Attending the Put Big Light On Festival and exploring neighborhood light displays are excellent free or low-cost ways to enjoy the holiday season in Bolton.

What are good picks for families with kids in Bolton?

Family-friendly options include the Put Big Light On Festival with its interactive light art and street entertainment, as well as local markets offering festive activities suitable for children.