Crawley’s Christmas magic awaits!

Crawley is gearing up for a magical festive extravaganza with a host of exciting events for all the family. From twinkling lights and a Christmas market to family-friendly fun and magical performances, Crawley is bursting with Christmas cheer. The celebrations begin this coming Saturday 29 November with the Christmas tree lights switch-on.

Saturday’s festive fun starts in Memorial Gardens, where carol singing at the bandstand from midday will set the tone for a joyful afternoon. From 1pm to 5.30pm, the festivities move to Queens Square, where families can enjoy live performances and the much-anticipated Christmas tree lights switch-on. The event will be compered by the lively North Pole Elves from Imajica Theatre, ensuring plenty of fun and laughter throughout the afternoon.

Visitors can look forward to performances from Victorian carol singers, the talented all-female Songbirds choir, and local stars from M&M Musical Theatre. Adding extra sparkle to the occasion, the Icicle Queens and Winter Fairy will dazzle the crowds with their enchanting presence. Diverse Crawley will host a range of activities, and families can get creative at a festive craft workshop. To round off the day, Father Christmas and the Mayor of Crawley will lead the countdown to the big switch-on, lighting up Queens Square for the season ahead.

The celebrations don’t stop there. Tilgate Park’s Magical Christmas returns on 6, 7, 13, 14 and 20 to 23 December, offering a truly festive experience from 10am to 6pm. Families can enjoy Storytime with Santa and visit Santa’s Grotto, with tickets priced at just £14.95 per child (advance booking essential). For those who love to craft, the popular Wreath Making Workshops are back at The Barn on 5, 6 and 7 December, giving participants the chance to create a beautiful handmade wreath for £50 per person, including all materials and expert tuition.

From 9 to 23 December, Queens Square will host a brand-new Christmas Fayre, bringing festive spirit to the heart of Crawley. Open 10am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sundays, the fayre will feature stalls offering street food, arts and crafts, and unique festive gifts.

Adding a spectacular twist to the celebrations, Solstice, a free laser and music show, will take place at County Mall (Unit 79/80) on 13 December (11am to 5pm) and 14 December (11am to 3.30pm). Created by BAFTA-winning artist Seb Lee-Delisle, this 10-minute show combines powerful laser beams, intricate patterns, and an upbeat festive soundtrack to transform the space with light and sound. The show has been commissioned by Crawley Borough Council and is supported by Creative Crawley. No booking is required, but entry is subject to capacity.

On Saturday 13 December, Same Difference Arts are performing ‘Jack and the Beanstalk, The Christmas Show’ at 11am and 2pm in the Town Hall. 

For more details and ticket bookings, visit our events webpage.