If you’re looking for fun Christmas activities this year, Luton has definitely got you covered. Light trails, plays, markets and more, here are some of our top picks for Christmas events in Luton…
Luton Lights Up for Christmas
Saturday 22 November | 2pm to 6.30pm | George Street, outside the Town Hall | Free
Christmas in Luton officially begins with the switch-on of the Christmas lights! Expect walk-about acts, stage performances and plenty of stalls and entertainment. PLUS, you can meet Paddington at intervals throughout the event. Lights will switch on at 6pm, so make sure to get there in plenty of time to grab a good spot! Don’t miss out on the first of many Christmas events in Luton.
Luton Point’s Countdown to Christmas
Saturday 22 November to Wednesday 24 December | Various times | Central Square (outside Starbucks), Luton Point | Free
Luton Point has no shortage of activities over November and December. And yes, they’re all FREE! Get your creative juices flowing with bauble decorating on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 November from 11am to 5pm, or gingerbread decorating in Mrs Claus’ gingerbread kitchen from Saturday 20 to Wednesday 24 December from 11am to 5pm each day.
Meet and greet your favourite characters like Peppa Pig on Saturday 29 November, or SpongeBob SquarePants on Sunday 30 November, 11am to 4pm each day. Father Christmas will be making a special visit for both of those days! Come along to family bingo on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December, sing along to a Christmas Concert on Saturday 13 December, or dance along at a Christmas Disco on Sunday 14 December.
Plus, they have a Christmas trail running from 22 November to 24 December, so pick up a trail guide and adventure through the centre for your chance to win a family bundle worth £200!
Keech Christmas Market
Saturday 29 November | 10am to 4pm | Barnfield College, New Bedford Road | £3 entry, under 14s go free
Keech Hospice’s Christmas market returns with a variety of stall holders selling handmade cakes, crafts and Keech merchandise. They also have raffle tickets and refreshments, all for a good cause. With over 50 stall holder this year, you’ll be sure to bag some great presents for friends and family, or one for yourself!
Santa’s Sleigh Visit
Saturday 29 November | 11am to 6pm | Market Hill (outside The Castle) | Free
Santa’s sleigh is stopping off at Market Hill! Stand underneath the magical snowfall from our snow machine for the opportunity to grab the perfect festive photo with all the family. Say hello to the cheeky elves as they welcome you onto the fully accessible sleigh, spreading their Christmas cheer.
The Three Bears
Sat 6 November to Wed 24 December | Various times | Hat Factory Arts Centre, Bute Street | £13.75 per ticket
A classic story with a fun and hilarious twist. Get ready for giggles galore in this wild, high-energy adventure. Perfect for all ages the show celebrates love, laughter and the beauty of families of all shapes and sizes. A theatre experience bursting with fun that all children will treasure forever.
Santa at Stockwood
Fri 12 December to Wed 24 December | 9.30am to 6pm | Stockwood Discovery Centre | From £6
Santa is coming to Stockwood for a 45 minute festive experience! Join Santa and his elves in the workshop, and make your own festive keepsake to take home. Mix up special reindeer food to leave out for Rudolph on Christmas eve, and write a Christmas wish to share with Santa. Make sure you book early for this one, as Santa is very popular, and very busy at this time of year!
Stockwood Illuminated
Fri 12 December to Sun 4 January | 4.30pm to 8pm | Stockwood Discovery Centre | £9 / £7 concessions
This massive light trail is returning to Luton, against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre! The trail is twice as long this year, with over 20 light creations and a custom soundtrack. Perfect for families, date nights or just getting the perfect festive photo. This year, there are 13 new light creations inspired by fairy tales, fast reaction games, water and ice. There will also be a few surprises along the way, so be prepared for a truly magical adventure. This firm favourite remains one of the most popular and loved Christmas events in Luton.
Christmas in Hat Gardens
Saturday 13 December | 2pm to 6pm | Hat Gardens, Bute Street | Free
Hat Gardens is the place to be for Christmas cheer! Head down to meet giant walkabout performers and listen to a line-up of local artists playing all of your festive favourites. Get your face painted, and even craft your letter to Santa and send it away in the post box.
Ray Quinn – A Swinging Christmas
Saturday 20 December | 7.30pm to 10pm | Luton Library Theatre | £25 / £20 concessions
Join the sensational Ray Quinn, No. 1 platinum-selling artist, for a night of festive tunes and cheer. Backed by his incredible big band. Ray is brining the magic of the season to life with Christmas classic and smooth swinging hits. Don’t miss this spectacular performance that’s guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit.
Orange Picture Club: Nightmare Before Christmas
Sunday 21 December | 12pm | Luton Library Theatre | From £4
Join The Orange Picture Club, Luton’s community cinema, for a family-friendly spooky Christmas classic. Tim Burton’s beloved stop-motion classic The Nightmare Before Christmas brings Halloween and Christmas together in a delightfully spooky musical adventure.
There’s are loads more Christmas events being announced and added to our what’s on guide almost every day. Check our guide regularly to stay up to date, or sign up for our email list for a monthly newsletter showcasing the best events, news and things to do in Luton.
About the Author
Jemma Candy
Jemma is a proud Lutonian with a passion for celebrating the town’s vibrant diversity and strong community spirit. As a Marketing Manager with a degree in Mass Communications, she’s committed to highlighting the positive stories in Luton. Whether uncovering hidden gems or discovering new favourite cafés, Jemma loves exploring all that her hometown has to offer.
