Portsmouth Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

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

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Christmas Markets (32 events) Christmas Lights (14 events) Christmas Shows (12 events) Other Christmas Activities (36 events)

The festive season in Portsmouth lights up the Historic Dockyard and Gunwharf Quays, blending maritime charm with Holiday lights and seasonal performances. Don't miss BSO The Nutcracker Magic, Portsmouth On Ice and the Massed Bands of His Majesty's Royal Marines: A Christmas Spectacular for memorable evenings and family-friendly things to do. From parades and festive events to Santa visits and waterside light displays, Portsmouth offers holiday activities and winter festivals that are perfect for visitors and locals alike.

Find the best Portsmouth Christmas happenings this year!

Portsmouth Christmas Events

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Christmas Markets

32 events
Festive Fun at Osborne • Nov 29 – Dec 21

Festive family fun at historic Osborne estate.

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Christmas Lights

14 events
Christmas in Bournemouth: Tree Wonderland

Reimagined interactive lights trail with free entry.

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Christmas Shows

12 events
BSO The Nutcracker Magic

Live BSO performance of The Nutcracker ballet.

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Other Christmas Activities

36 events
Portsmouth On Ice • Nov 22

Canopy-covered ice rink in Guildhall Square

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Editor's Picks (6)

  1. BSO The Nutcracker Magic
    Live BSO performance of The Nutcracker ballet.
  2. Festive Fun at Osborne (East Cowes)
    Festive family fun at historic Osborne estate.
  3. Fabulously Festive Christmas Event (EWHURST)
    Enchanting Christmas village with ice rink and Santa visits.
  4. Portsmouth On Ice
    Canopy-covered ice rink in Guildhall Square
  5. Massed Bands of His Majesty's Royal Marines: A Christmas Spectacular
    Performance by the Massed Bands of His Majesty's Royal Marines
  6. Christmas in Bournemouth: Tree Wonderland (Bournemouth)
    Reimagined interactive lights trail with free entry.

This Week / Coming Up (6)

Southampton Countdown to Christmas Thu, Nov 13
Farnham Maltings Christmas Fair Wed, Nov 19
Christmas in Salisbury: City of Stars Fri, Nov 21
Winterfest at Sandy Balls Fri, Nov 21
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market Fri, Nov 21
Andover Christmas Festival Fri, Nov 21

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Portsmouth Christmas FAQ

What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Portsmouth?

The biggest annual Christmas events in Portsmouth include the Illuminated Holiday Parade, the tree lighting in Market Square, and the Vintage Christmas celebration.

What holiday traditions are unique to Portsmouth?

Portsmouth is known for its Candlelight Stroll at Strawbery Banke Museum and the Vintage Christmas celebration, which blend history and holiday spirit.

Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Portsmouth?

The downtown area, Market Square, and the historic Puddle Dock neighborhood are especially festive for Christmas lights in Portsmouth.

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

Christmas markets and local makers are typically found in Market Square, downtown Portsmouth, and at special holiday events throughout the city.

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

Free activities include viewing the Christmas lights, attending the tree lighting, and exploring the holiday markets and parades in Portsmouth.

What are good picks for families with kids in Portsmouth?

Families with kids enjoy the Illuminated Holiday Parade, the tree lighting, the Candlelight Stroll, and the Vintage Christmas events in Portsmouth.