Bristol Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Bristol and surrounding areas
Bristol's the Christmas season comes to life near recognizable sites like State Street and the waterfront with Christmas lights and holiday activities that welcome visitors. Expect Bristol's Grand Illumination, the Bristol State Street Harbor Holiday Faire and many festive events centered on the downtown corridor. Walk historic streets aglow, browse holiday markets, attend seasonal concerts and Santa visits, and join parades and family-friendly activities that celebrate coastal New England traditions throughout December.
Find the best Bristol Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Markets
27 eventsCity-wide holiday celebration with historic traditions
Christmas Shows
18 eventsNew England's beloved holiday tradition in an intimate theater setting.
Christmas Lights
15 eventsMillions of twinkling lights illuminating a zoo after dark.
Christmas Activities
36 eventsTown-wide holiday illumination event
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Christmas in Newport
(Newport)
City-wide holiday celebration with historic traditions
-
Christmas in Edgartown
(Edgartown)
Charming New England town's annual holiday transformation
-
Bristol's Grand Illumination
Town-wide holiday illumination event
-
The Nutcracker
(Providence)
Annual holiday tradition featuring Tchaikovsky's classic ballet.
-
Illuminate PVD New Year's Eve Celebration and Fireworks Display
(Providence)
New Year's Eve fireworks over the Providence River
-
A Christmas Carol
(Providence)
New England's beloved holiday tradition in an intimate theater setting.
Events Happening Soon (6)
Bristol Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Bristol
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Bristol!
Bristol Christmas FAQ
Key annual events include the Luminate light trail at Ashton Court and the Bristol Christmas Market in the city center, both drawing large crowds for festive celebrations.
Bristol’s holiday traditions often blend creative light festivals with community markets, showcasing local artists and makers in a way that highlights the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Neighborhoods near Ashton Court and parts of the city center are known for their festive light displays, with several beloved local streets offering charming holiday decorations.
The city center hosts the main Christmas market, while various neighborhood markets throughout Bristol feature local artisans and seasonal vendor stalls.
Exploring neighborhood light displays and visiting free markets are great budget-friendly options. Many public spaces also feature festive decorations accessible without charge.
Family-friendly options include the Luminate trail with its interactive light installations and markets offering crafts and seasonal treats suitable for children.