Oxford's Christmas Light Festival
Visitors can experience illuminated neighborhood light trails and watch the festive Rose Hill Light Parade. The weekend features light shows, immersive performances, crafts, sing-alongs, and an illuminated Christmas Light Bus touring the city. Guests can also explore a festive light trail in Cutteslowe Park and admire local window and lantern displays.
What to Expect
A festival of arts, culture, community light trails, and parades.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
City Centre
Organizer
Oxford City Council
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and local communities
Vibe
Festive and creative
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Tips & Advice
- Use the festival's light trail map to find the trail closest to your home, then stroll the streets to see your neighbours' displays.
- If there's no trail near you, register your street on the light trail map so others can come and enjoy your display too.
- Join the IF Oxford online workshops starting 14 October to learn how to build your own LED light display before the festival.
- Make a willow, jam jar or star lantern or a window display ahead of the weekend, using the festival's how-to guides.
- Dress warmly for the Cutteslowe Park Light Trail and the Rose Hill Light Parade, because both take place outdoors in mid-November.
Special Events & Promotions
- IF Oxford Science and Ideas Festival runs a series of online workshops from 14 October on building your own LED light display.
- The Christmas Light Bus tours the city during the festival weekend.
- The Rose Hill Light Parade returns for another year.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the festival for?
It's for the whole family, and there are new events and experiences this year.
What is there to see and do?
There are neighbourhood light trails, the Christmas Light Bus touring the city, the Rose Hill Light Parade and the Light Trail in Cutteslowe Park. There are also crafts, sing-alongs, immersive performances and light shows.
How do I find a light trail near me?
Each light trail is marked with a pin on the festival map. Find the one nearest your home and wander the streets to see what your neighbours have made.
How can I take part?
You can register your street to join the light trail map. There are also guides for making willow, jam jar and star lanterns, window displays and light paintings.
Is there a Christmas market nearby?
Yes. The traditional Victorian Christmas Market is back on Broad Street from Thursday 12th November.
More Christmas Events Near Oxford
More Christmas Events near Oxford
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.