Rochester Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

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

How we verify →
Christmas Markets (21 events) → Christmas Parties (21 events) → Christmas Lights (12 events) → Christmas Shows (6 events) → Christmas Activities (40 events) →

Rochester comes alive for Christmas 2025 with festive events anchored by the historic High Street and cathedral precincts where seasonal entertainment takes centre stage. Don’t miss the Rochester Christmas Market and the Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival for immersive period performances, markets and family activities beneath glowing lights. From theatrical parades to cozy stalls and seasonal tours, Rochester blends literary heritage and lively holiday attractions into a memorable festive season.

Find the best Rochester Christmas happenings this year!

Rochester Christmas Events

Start Here

Christmas Markets

21 events
Rochester Christmas Market • Nov 22 – Dec 7

Kent's largest free Christmas market with a Dickensian festival

Rochester Christmas Markets →

Christmas Parties

21 events
COOK Christmas Food to Order

Chef-prepared, frozen Christmas meals for easy home celebration.

Rochester Christmas Parties →

Christmas Lights

12 events
Christmas at Hever Castle: The Land of Oz • Nov 21 – Jan 2, 2026

Immersive 'Land of Oz' themed Christmas experience

Rochester Christmas Lights →

Christmas Shows

6 events
KSS Air Ambulance Charity Carol Concert • Dec 5

Charity carol concert in a historic cathedral

Rochester Christmas Shows →

Christmas Activities

40 events
Christmas at Bewl Water 2025 • Nov 22 – Dec 24

Immersive Christmas quest to boost the 'Cheerometer'.

Rochester Christmas Activities →

Editor's Picks (6)

  1. Rochester Christmas Market
    Kent's largest free Christmas market with a Dickensian festival
  2. Christmas at Bewl Water 2025 (Bewlbridge)
    Immersive Christmas quest to boost the 'Cheerometer'.
  3. The Pantiles Christmas Markets (Tunbridge Wells)
    Festive chalets and Rudolph's Runner land train
  4. Christmas at Hever Castle: The Land of Oz (Hever)
    Immersive 'Land of Oz' themed Christmas experience
  5. KSS Air Ambulance Charity Carol Concert
    Charity carol concert in a historic cathedral
  6. Dickens Festival Carol Services
    Free carol services during Dickensian Christmas Festival.

Events Happening Soon (6)

Wisdom Hospice Lights for Love Service Fri, Nov 28 View →
Coach Holiday to Four Christmas Markets & Longleat Light Fri, Nov 28 View →
Enlightened: Christmas at Hylands Estate Fri, Nov 28 View →
Maidstone Museum Wreath Making Workshop Sat, Nov 29 View →
Advent Carol Service and Procession Sun, Nov 30 View →
The Vie Clinics Red Carpet Christmas Launch Tue, Dec 2 View →

Rochester Christmas Events Map

See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.

View Rochester Christmas Events Map →
Rochester Christmas events map

Also Near Rochester

Chatham (0.8 miles) → Strood (1.1 miles) → Gillingham (1.9 miles) → Gravesend (6.9 miles) → Maidstone (8.2 miles) → Stanfordlehope (9.3 miles) →

Rochester Christmas FAQ

What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Rochester?

Roc Holiday Village and the Child Advocacy Center Holiday Lights Tour are two of the largest and most popular annual Christmas events in Rochester.

What holiday traditions are unique to Rochester?

Rochester is known for its vibrant neighborhood light displays and the annual Sweet Creations gingerbread house exhibit at the George Eastman Museum.

Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Rochester?

The Rahway neighborhood in Gates and the Stafford area are especially popular for their festive light displays and welcoming atmosphere.

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

Roc Holiday Village is the main hub for holiday markets, but local makers also gather at neighborhood craft fairs and community events around the city.

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

Free activities include visiting neighborhood light displays, exploring the George Eastman Museum’s holiday exhibits, and attending events at Roc Holiday Village.

What are good picks for families with kids in Rochester?

Families enjoy the Holiday Lights Tour, Roc Holiday Village, and the Lamberton Conservatory Holiday Show, all of which offer fun and festive experiences for children.

Find Christmas Events in Another City