The Light Switch-On Parade
The festive season begins in Colchester on Saturday 14th November 2026, with the Christmas in Colchester Light Switch-On Parade starting at 5pm in the city centre.
The parade will begin at the Mercury Theatre before making its way through Colchester High Street, filling the city with colour, music and Christmas magic.
Expect dazzling performances from local schoolchildren, illuminated costumes, giant festive characters, stilt walkers, live music and plenty of festive surprises along the way.
Join us for one of Colchester’s biggest and brightest Christmas events, as the city comes together to celebrate the start of the festive season.
Colchester's Christmas Market
The Colchester Christmas Market is on Sunday 6th December 2026. Across the High Street, visitors can browse market stalls, discover unique gifts from local traders, enjoy festive food and drink, and soak up the Christmas spirit with family and friends.
On the same day, the Moot Hall Christmas Gift Market will also take place inside Colchester Town Hall from 10am to 4pm, bringing together 40 handpicked gift stalls.
From handmade presents and stocking fillers to artisan treats and a full day of festive browsing, the Christmas Market is a brilliant way to support local businesses and enjoy a magical day out in Colchester.
The Wizard of Oz at Charter Hall
Follow the yellow brick road to Charter Hall this Christmas as The Wizard of Oz Musical comes to Colchester on Saturday 12th December 2026 until Sunday 3rd January 2026.
This spectacular festive production will transform Charter Hall into the magical land of Oz, bringing Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion to life in a heart-warming story full of friendship, courage and Christmas theatre magic.
Expect stunning visuals, memorable music and a magical family experience that makes the perfect festive treat in Colchester.
Jack and the Beanstalk at Mercury Theatre
Get ready for a giant festive adventure as Jack and the Beanstalk comes to Mercury Theatre this Christmas.
Running from Saturday 21st November 2026 to Sunday 17th January 2027, this much-loved pantomime brings plenty of laughter, music, mischief and Christmas magic to the heart of Colchester.
Join Jack, Trevor and Tilly Trott as they take on a larger-than-life adventure filled with fun, surprises and plenty of panto sparkle. With brilliant performances, colourful sets and feel-good festive energy, it’s the perfect Christmas theatre trip for families, friends and panto lovers of all ages.
Christmas at Fenwick
Step into Fenwick Colchester this Christmas for festive shopping, family moments and seasonal magic in the heart of the city centre.
Browse beautiful gifts, festive fashion, beauty, homeware, toys and Christmas treats, or make it extra special with magical experiences such as meeting Santa and festive storytelling.
While you’re there, enjoy a Christmas meal at Carluccio’s or warm up with a seasonal drink from Caffè Nero.
Whether you’re shopping, planning a family day out or looking for a little festive inspiration, Christmas at Fenwick is a must-visit in Colchester.
Christmas at Culver Square
Get ready for festive fun at Culver Square, as the Colchester Ice Rink opens on Saturday 14th November 2026.
This year, Culver Square will become a Christmas destination in the heart of the city, with ice skating, festive stalls and seasonal shopping.
The rink will host a range of sessions, including public ice skating, family and toddler sessions, relaxed sessions, disco skating and school sessions, with private hire options also available.
More details will be announced soon, but you can pre-register your interest now to receive updates and a discount code before tickets go on general sale.
Christmas Shopping in Colchester
Make Christmas shopping in Colchester part of your festive day out. From much-loved city centre favourites like Fenwick to independent gems including Red Lion Books, Best Days Vintage, La Corina and the brilliant boutiques tucked along the High Street, Eld Lane, Trinity Street and Sir Isaac’s Walk, there are plenty of places to find something special.
Whether you’re ticking off your Christmas gift list, looking for festive fashion, picking up stocking fillers or treating yourself to seasonal food, gifts and decorations, Colchester city centre is full of inspiration.
Take your time, explore the decorated streets, support local businesses and turn your Christmas shopping into a proper festive day out.
Looking for somewhere specific? Click here to browse our full directory of shops and discover everywhere you can shop in Colchester this Christmas.
