Chelmsford Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Chelmsford and surrounding areas
Chelmsford celebrates the festive season with Holiday lights around the Cathedral and a host of holiday activities in the city centre and Riverside Park. Seasonal markets, concerts and family workshops create a cozy atmosphere for shoppers and visitors alike. Don’t miss the Chelmsford Cathedral Christmas Market, Enlightened: Christmas at Hylands Estate and the Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford Christmas Showcase for festive events, Santa visits and things to do.
Find the best Chelmsford Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
28 eventsKent's largest free Christmas market with a Dickensian festival
Christmas Parties
19 eventsFestive party nights with DJ and disco
Christmas Lights
14 eventsA mile-long trail with a 40m light tunnel and festive road train.
Other Christmas Activities
35 eventsPrivate visits with Father Christmas and toy selection.
Editor's Picks (6)
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Rochester Christmas Market
(Rochester)
Kent's largest free Christmas market with a Dickensian festival
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Colchester Christmas Markets
(Colchester)
Festive market with Santa, live music, and funfair rides.
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Enchanted Trail of Light at Colchester Zoo
(Stanway)
A mile-long trail with a 40m light tunnel and festive road train.
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Chelmsford Cathedral Christmas Market
Artisan Christmas market within historic cathedral.
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Colchester Holiday Season Experiences
(Colchester)
Vibrant community hub for art and holiday experiences.
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Air Dry Clay Decorations Workshop
(Colchester)
Hands-on air dry clay holiday decoration workshop for families.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Shows Near Chelmsford
Christmas shows, theater performances, and holiday entertainment in Chelmsford.
KSS Air Ambulance Charity Carol Concert
Charity carol concert in a historic cathedral
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The Chelmsford Tree Lighting and Holiday Prelude, the Christmas Fair & Toy Drive, and the Seasonal Market at Chelmsford-Lowell Elks are among the largest annual events.
Chelmsford’s tree lightings, the Holiday Prelude with live music and hayrides, and the gingerbread village at All Saint’s Church are cherished local traditions.
Vinal Square and the Town Center are popular for organized light displays, while many residential neighborhoods also feature festive decorations.
The Chelmsford-Lowell Elks Lodge hosts several major markets, and local vendors often appear at the Town Center and seasonal events.
Tree lightings, neighborhood light displays, and the Holiday Prelude are free and open to all, offering festive fun without a price tag.
Families enjoy the tree lightings, visits with Santa, hayrides, and the Christmas Fair & Toy Drive, all of which offer activities for children.