Looking for Christmas Gifts?

Late Night Shopping

Get in the spirit and enjoy extended shopping hours at select retailers in Colchester this Christmas. Some remained open late on Wednesday 13th November, and many more will be advertising extended hours during December.

We can’t wait to see some of our favourites opening after dark including Lush, Firstsite, Bill & Bert’s and Fenwick.

Colchester High St Festive Market

Sunday 8th December 2024 | Colchester City Centre

Explore the market and find an abundance of handmade goods, freshly made food, and so much more! 🌭

For more festive markets check out pages 6-9 of our 2024 Christmas Guide.

Hello Father Christmas

Santa has been making time in his very busy calendar to come and say hello this year. Greeting the jolly fella is always popular, so be sure to check the details with each venue and book in advance where necessary.

Here's the places we know you'll be able to say hello to Father Christmas: Colchester Castle, Mercury Theatre, Culver Square, Lion Walk and Fenwick.

Thanks for coming!

Festive Light Parade and Big Switch On

Wednesday 13th November, 5:30pm till late | Colchester High Street

Thank you to all those who joined us for Colchester's annual Festive Light Parade and Switch On on Wednesday 13th November.

Mercury Theatre worked hard with local schools, community groups and public workshop participants this season to weave some yuletide magic and create dazzling lanterns to light up the procession along the High Street. You saw familiar faces, fan favourites and a great big dose of local charm.

The precession began at Mercury Theatre at 5:30pm, and ended at Firstsite.

A big thank you to John Fowlers Solicitors for helping us to flick the switch and illuminate our historic city this festive season.

Illuminations at Lion Walk

The fun continued with a festive grotto,a jam-packed line up and further illuminations at 7:30pm. Santa, The Grinch, Bluey, Olaf, Elsa and Anna came to say hello, and there were cast appearances from Elf, Snow White and the Mercury, and festive performances from local talent including Yazmin Wood, Jupiter Ray and this year’s winner of Colchester Has Talent.

To book tickets to exclusive Courtyard events this season please visit lionwalkcourtyard.com.