Watford Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Watford and surrounding areas
Watford shines for Christmas 2025 with Holiday lights along the town centre and a lively mix of festive events and holiday activities near the Harlequin Theatre and intu shopping areas. Seasonal performances, Santa visits and markets create a welcoming holiday atmosphere. See Watford Christmas Lights Switch-On, Hogwarts in the Snow and Christmas and New Year at The Grove for family-friendly attractions, festive events and things to do across the town.
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Christmas Markets
27 eventsFestive winter celebration in town centre
Christmas Parties
21 eventsDine in the Hogwarts Great Hall after hours.
Christmas Lights
15 eventsIlluminated botanical wonderland with new light installations
Christmas Shows
14 eventsClassic Tchaikovsky ballet performance
Other Christmas Activities
23 eventsAnnual Christmas lights switch-on and Winterfest
Editor's Picks (6)
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Christmas at Kew
(Richmond)
Illuminated botanical wonderland with new light installations
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Watford Christmas Lights Switch-On
Annual Christmas lights switch-on and Winterfest
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Hogwarts in the Snow
(Leavesden)
Iconic Harry Potter sets transformed for Christmas.
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THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride London
(London)
Immersive theatrical Polar Express train journey with Santa visit.
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Watford Town Centre Winterfest
Festive winter celebration in town centre
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Christmas and New Year at The Grove
(Hertfordshire)
Jo Malone London festive collaborations and masterclasses
This Week / Coming Up (6)
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Watford Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas event in Watford is Winterfest, held in mid-November on The Parade. It features a Christmas lights switch-on, funfair rides, a parade, live entertainment, and a festive market.
Watford’s unique holiday traditions include the Winterfest parade with costume characters and community groups, alongside the town’s coordinated LED Christmas light installations funded by the BID and local council.
The best neighborhoods for Christmas lights in Watford include areas near the town center and residential streets known for their festive neighborhood displays, creating a warm community atmosphere.
Christmas markets and local makers can be found primarily at Watford Market during Winterfest and other seasonal events on The Parade, with additional artisan stalls appearing throughout the town center.
Free and budget-friendly activities include attending Winterfest with its free funfair rides, enjoying the Christmas lights displays, and exploring the festive markets and community events around the town center.
Families with kids will enjoy Winterfest’s funfair rides, live stage performances, Santa Claus appearances, and the festive parade, all designed to create a joyful holiday experience for children of all ages.