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Free Christmas Events in Somerset and Bristol, 2025

Free Things To Do At Christmas in Somerset and Bristol 2025

December is a notoriously expensive time of year, and we’re all conscious of the rising cost of taking our families out, especially at Christmas time. You may be looking for ways to save money whilst still going out with the family and enjoying the festive season. There are some great free Christmas events locally.

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A Guide to the Best Free Christmas Events in Somerset and Bristol in 2025

If you’re wondering: What is there to do at Christmas near me that is free? – I’ve come up with some suggestions.

Even though many of us are on a tight budget this year, it’s possible to enjoy some free Christmas events, or low cost family-friendly events. 

I have come up with some great ideas for Christmas experiences and things to do with kids that will get you into the festive spirit but won’t break the bank!  Here is our guide to the best free (or very low cost) things to do in Somerset and around Bristol this winter.

Free Christmas Events in Somerset, 2025

Where: Wells Cathedral, Cathedral Green, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2UE

When: Saturday 20th December 2025, 10:00 – 11:00

Price: Free but must reserve tickets in advance via EventBrite.

This Christmas, enjoy a fun, free, Christmas Family Sing-Along at Wells Cathedral! Wells Cathedral’s Song Squad choirs are inviting families to sign-up for this special festive event, which is particularly aimed at children aged 4-11. Children need to be accompanied by an adult throughout.

During the event there will be a short performance by the Wells Cathedral Song Squad choirs.

Wed 26th November 2025 – The Christmas Orchestra Concert (Early concert – 19:00; Late concert 21:30). Tickets and more info here.

Fri 19th – Sun 21st December – There are also Carols by Candlelight Concerts at Wells Cathedral which are ticketed events. More info here.

Where: Bath Recreation Ground, Pulteney Mews, Bathwick, Bath BA2 4DS

When: Wednesday 10th December 2025

  • Doors open 6.00 pm
  • Carols 6.30 pm – 7.30 pm

Price: FREE but must have a ticket for entry

Come along for a festive evening of carols, family fun and a celebration of Christmas in the heart of Bath. 

From carols to mince pies and mulled wine, there’ll be all-age excitement and something for everyone at Carols at the Rec!

Where: Bath Abbey

When: Saturday 29th Nov and Saturday 6th December 2025 at 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, and 5pm.

Saturday 13th December 2025 at 1pm, 2pm, 3pm.

The popular Shoppers Carols, an informal 20-minute service with traditional carols. Everyone is welcome, no need to book.

Family Nativity Service

When: Sunday 21st December at 3.30pm.

Children are invited to come dressed as a shepard, star, wise man or angel to take part in a fun retelling of the Nativity – with a real live donkey!

Bath Abbey at Christmas

Where: The Bandstand, Vivary Park, Taunton, Somerset

When: Monday 8th December 2025, 6.00pm – 8.00pm.

Price: Free community event

Details: The Mayor of Taunton invites you to sing out loud at Carols Around the Bandstand, from 6.00pm in Vivary Park.

Taunton Concert Band will be leading the music, with the delightful voices from Taunton Deane Male Voice Choir, The West Somerset Singers, Rock Choir Somerset Coast • Choirs led by Mike Aris and Let’s Sing.
 
The event supports the Mayor’s Charity.

Where: Nailsea, Clevedon, Portishead (North Somerset)

When: Saturday 13th December 2025, From 5.00 pm.

The vee Dub Christmas Cruz is a great free Christmas event in North Somerset. You’ll see a festive VW Cruz as over 100 VW’s drive around North Somerset towns covered with tinsel, lights, baubles, Christmas trees, Santa Claus, elves, stickers, and anything festive, spreading the Christmas cheer.

Nailsea – Clevedon – Portishead

Leaving from the Tower House Car Park in Nailsea and heading out around the Trendlewood area of Nailsea, then cruising out to Clevedon. From Hither Green industrial estate behind Aldi, touring Clevedon before heading to Portishead. Along the High Street and finishing up at The Lake Grounds for people to come along and see the vans at the end.

Portishead – Bristol

After Portishead, they’re heading into the centre of Bristol for several drive-by’s of the Children’s Hospital – please note that anyone taking part in this will need to pay for the Bristol Clean Air Zone if applicable to their vehicle. After the drive-by they’re heading up to the Clifton Downs for some photos.

Vee Dubs Christmas Cruz, North Somerset

Weston-super Mare

Where: Weston Beach Lawns, Weston-Super-Mare, Somerset

When: Sunday 14th December 2025, from 5.15 pm

Leaving from the Queensway Retail Car Park and heading out around Worle, along to the Boulevard and up to the sea front before heading down past the pier. From here they’re driving along Oxford Street, on to Station Road, over the Hildesheim Bridge on to Winterstoke Road.

Then along Marchfields Way into The Range car park where they will park up for people to come along and walk around the vehicles, chat to their owners and throw some money in the buckets.

Price: FREE Christmas event for spectators, donations welcome for charity. Costs to join the parade in your VW – see website for fee.

Raising money for The Grand Appeal, the official charity of the Bristol Children’s Hospital.

Weston super Mare Christmas Lights Switch on

Where: Italian Gardens, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, BS23 1AJ

When: Saturday 29th November 2025

Details: The Christmas lights switch-on ceremony coincides with the Eat:Weston Food Festival which kicks off the festive season. There’ll be music, food and festivities! You’ll see around 100 food and produce stallholders taking over the The Winter Gardens and Italian Gardens.

Where: Clevedon Marine Lake, Old Church Road, Clevedon

When: Saturday 6th December 2025

  • 4 pm – Meet at the Pier, joined by the Rock Choir
  • 4.20 pm Procession from the pier to the lake with North Somerset Samba Band
  • 5 pm – Light show at the Lake, Darklyte Collective fire dancers

Price: Free Christmas Event

Light up the lake is the big winter celebration at Clevedon seafront. Bring a lantern, torch or glow sticks and join in the lively procession from Clevedon Pier to the Marine Lake, following a Samba band.

At the lake, watch it light up with fire dancers, paddle boards decorated with fairy lights, illuminated model boats and other floating vessels.

Visitors are invited to give generously to a bucket collection for MARLENS, the local volunteer-run charity which continues to fund raise toward the management and further development of Clevedon Marine Lake.

This year, there’s a night market at Nead’s Coffee Hut on the Salthouse Fields.

  • Monday 27th Oct – Friday 31st Oct 2025 (10am-12pm) – There is a children’s lantern making workshop at The Porthole Room on the pier during half term. You could bring these along to the Light Up The Lake event.
  • Monday 27th October (10-12), Monday 17th November (4-6pm), Tuesday 18th November (4-6pm) – Children’s lantern making workshop at The Community Centre.

Where: Clevedon Pier, The Toll House, The Beach, Clevedon, North Somerset, BS21 7QU

When: Friday 5th December 2025

  • From 5:00 pm

Price: Free Pier entry from 5.00 pm.

Wrap up warm and come along to Clevedon Pier for a Festive Evening of Lights by the Sea. Come and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Keep warm with mulled wine, hot chocolate and mince pies from The Pagoda.

Christmas Trail at Clevedon Pier –

Throughout December, explore Clevedon Pier for hidden Christmas decorations and draw them onto your Christmas Tree Trail card. Plus learn interesting facts about our Christmas traditions made popular by the Victorians. 

Why not make a day of it and grab lunch in the Glass Box restaurant, or sweet treats from the Pagoda Cafe.

Where: Clevedon Town Centre

When: Friday 21st November 2025, from 4.00pm.

Details: Festive fun – enjoy Christmas music, Nutcracker-themed decorations, and seasonal cheer in the town centre. Children can bring their lanterns along!

         ——

Where: Hill Road, Alexandra Gardens and Sunhill Park, Clevedon

When: Thursday 27th November 2025

Hill Road are kicking off the festive season with their Christmas evening festivities with a vintage bus to pick you up and deliver you to the slopes of Clevedon for free! Enjoy lights, entertainment and indulge in festive late night shopping, eating and drinking.

The “Light Up The Parks” project organised by volunteer group, Clevedon Community Lights Group are lighting up the town of Clevedon. You can wander through an illuminated wonderland in Alexandra gardens (between Hill Road and Clevedon Pier) from dusk, this Christmas. 

This year, Sunhill Park and Clevedon Community Centre is joining the illuminations. Their light switch on at 6 pm and Father Christmas will be there. Festive food and drinks are also available, with music on the terrace.

Where: Portishead High Street, BS20

When: Monday 24th November 2025

  • Starts 5:40 pm
  • Lights on and fire works 6.45 pm

See Father Christmas in Portishead – Santa will be arriving via the V-Dubs (VW’s covered in 1000’s of Christmas lights) especially for the lights switch on!

Where: Portishead High Street, BS20

When: Sunday 7th December 2025

  • 2 pm – 6 pm

Discover an array of stalls which will include gifts, food and drink at a Posset Christmas Market. Enjoy a fun fair, live entertainment and local shops, the event is a great afternoon.

FOR MORE CHRISTMAS MARKETS, READ: Christmas Markets in Somerset, 2025

Where: Quedam Shopping Centre, 10 Ivel Square, Yeovil, Somerset, BA20 1EY

When: Saturday 22nd November 2025

  • Starting from 3.00pm
  • Christmas Light Switch On – 6:30 pm

Get in the festive spirit at the Yeovil Christmas light switch-on. 

Enjoy live music and dance performances, family-friendly creative activities, specialist roaming acts, delicious food and drink, and a specially curated market, celebrating the magic of Christmas, fairytales and pantomime.

Where: Market House, Ilminster Town Centre, Ilminster, Somerset, TA19 0AN

When: Friday 21st November 2025

  • Children’s Choirs from 1.30 pm
  • Christmas Market 3.30 pm – 8.30 pm (Youth Centre, Frog Lane)
  • Food Drink and Entertainment 4.00 pm (Town Centre)
  • Lantern and Festive Parade 6.15 pm (Town Centre)
  • Light switch on 7.00 pm (Market House)

Ilminster has one of the best Christmas light displays in Somerset. The entire town is decorated with thousands of lights, from the market square through to West Street, Silver Street and beyond. Culminating in an evening of fun, drinks, food, and puppet shows.

Ilminster Christmas Festival is a free Christmas event for all the family to kick-off the festive season. The Christmas lights will be switched on, market stalls, late-night shopping, entertainment, food and drink to buy.

When: Friday 5th December 2025

  • From 5.00 pm until late
  • 5.15 pm See father Christmas in the Town Centre

Where: Swain Street and Surrounding streets

With late night shopping, live music and street entertainment, it promises to be a fun, festive night for the whole family. 

When: Sunday 7th December 2025

  • 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Where: Town Centre

Dulverton by Starlight is a magical event held every year on the first Sunday of December, open to all free of charge. Every December the pretty Exmoor town of Dulverton is decorated with Christmas trees festooned with lights, and for one Sunday many of the shops are open for people to do some local Christmas shopping.

Festivities take place all afternoon and into the evening, including street entertainers, live music, festive stalls and a fabulous fireworks display to conclude the evening! Don’t miss this traditional, festive occasion – marking the beginning of Christmas every year in Dulverton, Exmoor.

  • Craft market
  • Carol Singers
  • Santa in the Heritage Centre

Where: Dunster, Somerset

When: Friday 5th – Sunday 7th December 2025

The Dunster Winter Festival is one of Somerset’s most popular Christmas events, set in the historic village of Dunster. The village and Castle will be dressed for Christmas and will look stunning over the Festival weekend.

The village’s High Street and medieval streets alive with Christmas markets, artisan stalls, and unique seasonal shopping opportunities. 

Visitors can explore a Santa’s grotto, a reindeer station, and a wide range of family-friendly Christmas activities.

The festival also features medieval-themed entertainment, including live performances, historical reenactments, and music in local venues such as St George’s Church. Dunster Castle often hosts additional seasonal attractions, adding to the festive atmosphere in Somerset.

Good to know: Many activities take place outdoors, so dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Parking in the village can be limited, so it’s recommended to arrive early. Some special performances or events may require separate tickets (paid), but many events are free. Visitors can find full details on the official festival website.

Where: Taunton Castle, Castle Green, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4AA

Price: Museum entry is FREE. The museum is run by a charity so please consider donating.

Enjoy a magical Santa experience in the Museum’s festive grotto this Christmas.

Festive family Events

These events cost £1 – £2 per activity.

  • Elf Trail – From Tuesday 2nd to Wednesday 24th December 2025. Spot the elves as you explore the museum, answer the festive questions and win a treat! £1 per child, drop in.
  • Decorate a Plate for Santa – Wednesday 24th December 2025, from 10.00 am – 2.00 pm. Use ceramic pens to design and decorate a plate with your own festive design. This will be perfect for leaving out on Christmas Eve with a mince pie and a carrot! £2 per child, drop in.
  • Ring in the New Year! Tuesday 30th and Wednesday 31st December 2025, Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd January 2026. Take part in a New Year trail to discover more about the New Year in the past and around the world, complete the questions and see if you did well enough to ring the bell! £1 per child, drop in.
  • Make a calendar inspired by the current exhibition to enjoy throughout the year. £2 per child, drop in.

The café will be open serving hot drinks and seasonal treats.

Santa’s Grotto – £10/Child (book using link below).

Santa’s Grotto – South West Heritage Trust

Where: Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 8DB

Details:

  • Reindeer Trail: Tuesday 2 December – Saturday 3 January. A fun and festive way to explore the museum! £1 per child.
  • Festive food: Saturday 20 December. Help make mince pies in the old kitchen and decorate a biscuit to take home.
  • Decorate a Plate for Santa: Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24 December 2025. Use ceramic pens to design and decorate a plate with your own festive design. This will be perfect for leaving out on Christmas Eve with a mince pie and a carrot for Santa! (£2 donation.) 10.00 am – 2.00 pm on Wednesday 24 December.
  • Calendar Making: Tuesday 30 and Wednesday 31 December. Get ready for the New Year and make your own calendar.
  • Donkey Day! Friday 2 January. Come along for donkey rides at the museum and have a go at a simple donkey themed craft. Donkey rides are £2.50 per child. Age and weight restrictions apply*. 
  • Retro toys and games: Saturday 3 January. Let off some steam before the return to school and enjoy retro and outdoor games.

Price: Entry – Adult/£9.35; Concessions/£7.65; Child (5-17) £4.00; Child (under 5)/Free; Family of 4/£22. Museum Unlimited Annual PassPay once and visit for a whole year Free of Charge. Activities/£1-2

Although admission to the museum isn’t free, with the annual unlimited pass, you pay once and the rest of the year is free. There are lots of low cost activities going on over the festive period at the museum. 

Cheddar Festive Night 2025

Where: Cheddar Village

When: Friday 5th December 2025

Details: Cheddar Festive Night is an ideal opportunity to buy unusual gifts whilst enjoying the festive atmosphere.

There will be choirs and bands dotted around the village with the Lower Gorge and much of the village decked out with Christmas trees and lights. Also, featuring a Christmas market and charity stalls.

Food will be available in a number of Cheddar’s pubs and cafes, market stalls aplenty and you can expect a visit from Santa.

FREE Santa's Grotto and Christmas Light Switch On, Shepton Mallet, 2025

Where: Shepton Mallet Library, 2 Market Place, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5AZ

When: Sunday 30 November from 11 am to 5 pm

Details: The Rotary Club of Shepton Mallet, in conjunction with Shepton Council, will deliver Santa’s Grotto on Sunday 30 November in The Library in Shepton Mallet Market Square. There are FREE Children’s Activities and Gift Sweets Bags. No charges.

Shepton Mallet Sunday Market is also on, with a magical mix of the best makers and producers that the South West has to offer, including local cheesemakers, cider, wines, sweet treats and more. There will be designer makers: jewellers, print makers, illustrators and fashion designers, along with gorgeous vintage treasures, homeware and skincare.

Discover a delicious range of hot street food and drinks, a wicked line-up of live music and DJs and plenty of kids’ entertainment to keep the family occupied all day. 
 
There will of course be a choir and plenty of festive music. At 4:15pm, the Christmas lights will switch on, so be sure to gather around Shepton’s beautiful tree to celebrate the start of 2025’s festive season.
 
Soak up the joyful atmosphere as Shepton Mallet comes alive with music, lights and community spirit!

Where: Shepton Mallet Prison, Frithfield Lane, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5FQ

When: TBC

Price:  FREE

Get into the festive spirit this December at Shepton Mallet Prison for A Creative Christmas – a FREE festive experience with fun activities for all to take part in:

  • Letter to Santa: An opportunity for your little ones to write a letter to Santa 
  • Christmas ‘CELLfies’: Snap the perfect photo at our festive photo corner.
  • Christmas Wish Tree: Add your festive wish to our Christmas tree, sharing the joy and spirit of the season.
  • Fuzzy Felt Tree & Snowman Decorating: Get creative and help decorate our felt Christmas tree and snowman. Additional craft items are available to purchase to make your prison experience extra special!

Please note, this ticket does not include entry into the entire prison.

Where: Ferne Animal Sanctuary, Wambrook, Chard, TA20 3DH

When: Sunday 30th November 2025, from midday.

Price: Reduced entry of £5/Adults, £3/Child (Tickets must be pre-booked).

Bring the whole family and enjoy a heartwarming day filled with festive cheer and fun!

Storytime with Father Christmas
Gather under the gazebo as Father Christmas shares magical Christmas tales that will delight children and grown-ups alike.

Animal Blessing in the Barn
Join us at 4pm as our local reverend blesses our beloved animals. You’re welcome to bring your own well-behaved pet to be part of this special moment. Enjoy carols and soak up the cosy Christmas atmosphere.

Elves’ Workshop
Get creative with festive arts and crafts, perfect for little hands and big imaginations!

Good to know: This is a family favourite — kids love meeting the animals. Dogs on leads are welcome too.

 Free Christmas Events in Bristol, 2025

Where: The Mall, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS34 5DG

The Christmasaurus Trail – Free Christmas Event

When: From 28 Nov – 24 Dec 2025

Discover the magical Christmasaurus trail, around Cribbs and help The Christmasuarus believe in flying. Pick up a free booklet at the information desk and explore The Mall to discover the whole story. Don’t forget to collect stamps along the way!

Meet Santa and the Christmasaurus from every day and take your pick from two activities:

Storytime Sessions with Santa & The Christmasaurus:

Snuggle in and join Santa (and a special guest) for a magical reading of The Christmasaurus!

The Christmasaurus Visits – Showtime:

Join Santa, The Christmasaurus, and his playful elves for a magical experience packed with songs, laughter and Christmas cheer. 

Christmasaurus at The Mall, Cribbs

Festive Food Village

Enjoy a delicious festive treat (or two!) in the twinkly Festive Village just outside the front of Cribbs Mall. You’ll find a whole host of tasty treats, hot drinks and delicious delicacies from The Traditional Food Co. 

Where: Broad Street and High Street, Chipping Sodbury

When: Sunday 7th December 2025

  • 11 am – 5.30 pm
  • The Original Santa Float arriving at 5pm.

A free festive event for all the family.

The streets will be lined with stalls offering a wide selection of gifts and food including traditional mulled wine, mince pies and roasted chestnuts.

Local cafés, public houses, shops and restaurants will also all be open.

Discover a full stage of entertainment and a new free Santa visit in the courtyard open 11.00 – 3pm!

Live donkeys, a free craft area and bouncy snow globe, fun in the Grammar School, funfair rides and Christmas entertainment galore! 

Not forgetting all the amazing independent businesses opening for Sunday trade and over 50 stalls to shop with!

Where: Clifton Observatory, Litfield Place, Bristol, BS8 3LT

When: Sunday 7th December 2025

  • 6 pm – 7 pm

Price: £5 including a mulled wine or mulled non-alcoholic cider and mince pie.

Join a festive night of carols led by Bristol Musical Theatre! Brighten up a dark winter’s evening with some warming, well-loved carols and a hot drink to keep you toasty! Enjoy exclusive access to the Rooftop Terrace to witness the gorgeous night-time view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

When: Mon 1st December – Tue 23rd December 2025

Explore a trail of beautifully decorated Christmas Trees and mischievous Elves throughout the Village. Wrap up warm, download the map and enjoy exploring the village.

Where: Various locations.

Throw on your Christmas jumpers, grab a hot drink and come join on a street near you for some festive carol singing and chocolate treats!

Live Carol Singing – Sat 13th Dec @12pm

Get in the seasonal spirit with carols from The Royal York Singers at Clifton Library Courtyard.

Where: Yate Shopping Centre, BS37 4AP

When: Saturday, 22nd November 2025

  • 10 am to 5 pm

Price: Free event 

Get ready for a magical day of celebration at Yate Shopping Centre.

The Fabulous Festive Fun Day promises something for everyone, kicking off with a Starry Story Time at Yate Library, featuring three enchanting reading sessions at 10am, 10.45am, and 11.30am and receive a free bookmark – perfect for little ones.

Throughout the day, families can enjoy free fairground rides, meet and greets with festive characters, and a fantastic lineup of live entertainment on the main stage from 12pm.

Acts include the uplifting Rock Choir, the vintage harmonies of the D-Day Dollies, high-energy performances by Razzamatazz and Street Cred, plus a lively display from the Winterbourn Down Morris dancers. Don’t forget to also send a Letter to Santa, and meet Postman Pat!

As the excitement builds, the grand finale arrives with the Christmas Light Switch-On at 4.45pm – a sparkling moment not to be missed!

Santa’s Grotto will be open in the Central Square from 10am until 4pm and each successive Saturday and Sunday running through to Christmas week when it will be open more often, closing on Christmas Eve at 1pm.

Santa’s Grotto suggested contribution £1 (Jessie May Children’s Hospice). There will be stickers and certificates for each child on their visit to Santa who will be located outside the Grotto.

Where: Winterbourne Medieval Barn, Bristol, BS36 1SE

Carol’s in the Barn

When: Saturday 13th December and Sunday 14th December 2025

  • 3.00 pm Saturday and Sunday
  • Doors open from 2.15pm

Price: £5.39; Child £1.08 (inc. booking fee) – Booking essential.

Relive the Christmas story as members of St Michael’s church tell it in words and music with the opportunity to join in singing your favourite Christmas carols. This has rapidly become a Winterbourne tradition between St. Michael’s Church and The Barn – don’t miss it!

To get you in the holiday spirit there’ll be a mulled wine and mince pie on arrival included with your ticket (non-alcoholic, gluten free and children’s alternatives available). It will be pretty chilly in The Barn so wrap up warm in your finest festive knits!

Winter Family Craft Sessions

When: TBC

  • 10 am or 1 pm

Price: £4.07/Child

Join for some family festive crafts. A range of winter themed crafts will be available, or children are welcome to use the materials provided to get creative with their own projects!These workshops will be held in the beautiful main barn so there is plenty of space to move around, get creative but do wrap up! Recommended for ages 5-11 years (approx). Free (limited) parking on site.

Where: 10 Gloucester Rd, Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4AA

When: Every Friday

  • 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm

Price: Free (Booking in advance recommended)

Two hours of free kids entertainment, including singing, dancing, crafts, movies, popcorn and more!

Giant Elf on the Shelf, Bristol

Where: Various locations around Bristol City Centre

When: TBC

Is Brunelf, Bristol’s giant Scout Elf making another appearance in 2025? Waiting for confirmation! 

Bristol Ride to Charlton Farm

Where: Leaving from Winterbourne, Bristol, BS36 1JL, through Bristol City Centre, to Charlton Farm, Wraxall, BS48 1PE

When: Saturday 6th December 2025

  • Arrive from 10.30am for mince pies and hot drinks. 
  • Depart Winterbourne from 12:30pm – 1.00 pm.
  • Arrive Charlton Farm around 2.15 pm

This is an amazing sight to see with lots of motorbikes riding in convoy, bikers dressed in Santa, elf, snowman or reindeer costumes and raising lots of money for charity.

No charge to attend, but all donations welcome and 100% passed on to Children’s Hospice South West.

Christmas Fairs and Markets in Bristol 2025

Where: Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3DX

When: Friday 7th November – Tuesday 23rd December 2025

  • Market Stalls open 10 am – 7.00 pm (6pm on 23rd Dec)
  • Food stalls and bars open 10 am – 10 pm

Located in the heart of Bristol City Centre, the Christmas market is home to over 35 unique stalls, as well as entertainment and visits from Santa and his elves. Grab yourself a warming hot chocolate or mulled wine and wander through the market soaking up the festive atmosphere. Admire the  impressive 30ft Christmas tree, adorned with a spectacular display of sparkling lights and decorations.

Discover live music and enjoy delicious drinks in the warm Jäger Barn Bar or book one of the private Gondolas to escape the bustle of the Market for a while. 

Christmas Market, Bristol

Where: Millennium Square, Anchor Road, Bristol, BS1 5DB

When: From Friday 28th November 2025 and throughout December

  • 10am to 11pm

Get into the festive spirit this Christmas at this family-friendly harbourside event in Millennium Square. Featuring a wide range of stalls with a selection of food and drinks, as well as fairground rides like dodgems and a carousel.

Vintage Winter Wonderland also has an après bar serving winter warmers and many vintage games with a chance to win toys.

Where: St Nicholas Market, Corn Exchange, Old City, Bristol, BS1 1JQ

When: Friday 14th November to Wednesday 24th December 2025

  • Monday to Friday, 9.30pm to 5pm
  • Saturday, 9.30am to 6pm
  • Sunday, 10am to 4pm
  • Christmas Eve, 9.30am to 3pm.

Where: The Brightwell, Bradbury House , Wheatfield Drive, Bradley Stoke, Bristol, BS32 9DB

When: Saturday 29th November 2025

  • 11:00 – 14:00

Price: Entry is FREE.

Come and join us for a fabulous festive market as we countdown to Christmas. There’s a visit from Santa plus a whole host of delicious festive treats.

Showcasing a wide variety of gifts and crafts this will be the perfect opportunity to start (or finish) your Christmas shopping. The variety of wonderful local stall holders, you are sure to find the perfect Christmas gifts for family and friends. 

There will be scrumptious refreshments on sale throughout the event to purchase too.

Come along and kick off the festive season whilst supporting The Brightwell and their mission to support people affected by MS and other neurological conditions.

FOR MORE CHRISTMAS MARKETS, READ: Christmas Markets in Somerset, 2025

 National Trust Properties

If you’re a member of the National Trust, their properties are free to explore this Christmas. Many have a family Christmas Trails. 

Local Light Displays

A fun, free thing to do with the kids at Christmas is to walk or drive around your local light displays – some people go to town! There are always certain roads in every town that really ‘push the boat out’ when it comes to putting on light displays in their front gardens and on their houses. Often when one house starts, their neighbours will join in. There are certain places that make the local news for their fantastic displays and charity fund raising efforts. Here are a couple of those:

  • Trinity Close, Burnham on Sea
  • Brookfield Walk, Clevedon
  • Brailsford Lights Christmas Display, Brentry

Please note, every effort has been made to ensure that all information is correct at the time of publishing this post, but please check the venues website before travelling, as events may be amended or cancelled at short notice. Some of these events may need pre-booking. 

If you have any more suggestions for free Christmas events in Somerset and Bristol, we’d love to hear from you!

Read more Somerset seasonal Guides

Are you stuck for Christmas gift ideas? Read our blog post The Best Gifts for Outdoor Kids, for some inspiration this Christmas. Over 60 ideas (to suit all budgets) that are perfect for outdoor adventurers and their families.

Check out some winter walks in Somerset, Bristol and the surrounding area.

More Local Events and Dates For Your Diary

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Disclaimer: Whilst we endeavour to provide accurate information, please always check the details with the organisers/venue before you leave in case there are any changes or cancellations. If you have any more suggestions for family-friendly days out in Somerset, we’d love to hear from you!

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