Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Southampton Countdown to Christmas
Southampton invites you to a spectacular three-day Countdown to Christmas event, kicking off the festive season with a bang. The city centre will be alive with entertainment, including live music, parades with Christmas characters, and a dazzling light show on the Bargate. The beloved Christmas market will also open, offering a magical experience with unique gifts, delicious food, and festive cheer.
What to Expect
Three-day Christmas countdown event with light show on the Bargate.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$
- Parking: The city offers a Park & Ride service on weekends and public holidays from Adanac Park, with the Bluestar PR1 service taking visitors directly to the City Centre and Westquay for £5.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Southampton
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and shoppers
Vibe
Festive and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Special Events & Promotions
- Official Countdown to Christmas program
- Christmas Market launch party
- Light show on the Bargate
- Christmas lights switch-on
Location
Event Details
Duration
Multiple days
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
City Centre
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
GO! Southampton
Food & Drink
Festive food and warm beverages available, including Alpine bars at the market.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on Friday evening for the Christmas lights switch-on and main stage entertainment to secure a good spot.
- Utilize the Park & Ride service on weekends to avoid city centre traffic and parking costs.
- Check the Visit Southampton website for the full program of events, as activities are spread across the city centre.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be exploring various locations across the city centre, from Oxford Street to Guildhall Square.
- Consider visiting on a weekday evening to experience the Christmas market with potentially fewer crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for the Countdown to Christmas event?
The Countdown to Christmas event activities take place over three days, with the Christmas Market running from November 13th to January 4th.
Is there a cost to attend the Countdown to Christmas event?
The main events and activities across the city centre are free to attend.
Where can I find more information about specific events?
You can find the full program of events and latest updates on the Visit Southampton website.
What kind of food and drink options are available?
The Christmas market offers a variety of festive food and warm beverages, including Alpine bars.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there is a Park & Ride service available on weekends and public holidays from Adanac Park for £5.
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.