Harwich Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Harwich and surrounding areas
Harwich makes the holiday season feel maritime and magical, with seasonal festivities around Harwich Harbour and the Old Town that highlight festive events and winter festivals. Visitors to the quay and historic streets can enjoy Christmas markets, harbor-side light displays and plenty of family-friendly things to do against a backdrop of historic lighthouses and Tudor buildings. Expect caroling nights, cozy market stalls and community gatherings that turn the waterfront into a lively spot for festive events and holiday activities.
Find the best Harwich Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
29 eventsFestive market with Santa, live music, and funfair rides.
Christmas Parties
20 eventsFestive party nights with discounted accommodation.
Christmas Lights
17 eventsTown-wide Christmas light switch-on and festive fair
Christmas Shows
11 eventsClassic Christmas pantomime performance
Christmas Activities
23 eventsWeekend Christmas celebration across multiple Harwich locations
Editor's Picks (6)
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Bury St Edmunds Christmas Lights Event
(Bury St Edmunds)
Town lights up for St. Edmund's Day with festive stalls and characters.
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Sudbury Christmas Light Switch On & Fair
(Sudbury)
Town-wide Christmas light switch-on and festive fair
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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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Christmas in Harwich Weekend
Weekend Christmas celebration across multiple Harwich locations
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Colchester Holiday Season Experiences
(Colchester)
Vibrant community hub for art and holiday experiences.
Events Happening Soon (1)
Harwich Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Harwich
Harwich Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas event is the Christmas in Harwich Weekend held in early December, featuring tree lightings across all seven villages, Santa’s arrival, trolley rides, and a fireworks display. This event brings the community together for festive celebrations throughout the town.
Harwich is known for its simultaneous tree lightings in all seven villages, creating a town-wide festive atmosphere. The annual Trolley to Christmas Town event and the arrival of Santa by fire truck are also cherished local traditions.
Neighborhoods near Harwich with strong community participation in holiday decorating are the best spots to see Christmas lights. These areas feature a mix of traditional and creative displays that are ideal for both walking and driving tours.
Christmas markets and local artisan vendors can be found at community centers, garden club events, and seasonal market venues throughout Harwich, especially during the Christmas in Harwich Weekend and other December festivities.
Free or budget-friendly activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, attending tree lighting ceremonies, enjoying trolley rides, and exploring local markets with no admission fees. Many events around town offer festive fun without a high cost.
Families can enjoy Santa’s arrival, holiday trolley rides, craft fairs, and community concerts during the Christmas season in Harwich. These events provide engaging and festive experiences suitable for children of all ages.