The festive season is about to light up Luton, and it all starts next week! While there’s plenty happening across town this Christmas, here are some unmissable highlights you won’t want to miss.
From enchanting light trails to festive film screenings, these are the standout celebrations that show you don’t need to leave Luton for an unforgettable Christmas.
Lighting up Luton for Christmas
Saturday 23 November | 2pm – 6.30pm | Town Centre
Luton town centre will be receiving its annual festive makeover with Lighting up Luton kicking off the season.
The Hat Factory Arts Centre will be transformed into a winter wonderland with live music, entertainment, activities, and the big lights switch on around 6pm outside the town hall.
Oh, and did we mention children’s TV favourite ‘Bluey’ will be making a special appearance?!
Price – free event with a cost for Christmas Grotto
Enchanted Forest Grotto
Saturday 23 November – Tuesday 24 December | Various times | Luton Point
Luton Point will be hosting Father Christmas in his grotto this year from Saturday 23 November. Be sure to bring the kids along to meet the man himself nestled away in his log cabin! Find a friendly Forest Elf and sit on the Forest Throne for a picture-perfect snap.
Santa’s visit to Luton Point runs all the way right up to Christmas Eve before the big day. PS – we’d recommend pre-booking to avoid disappointment.
Price – free if you spend £20 in Luton Point or £3 per child
Lidl’s Christmas Freeway Truck
Thursday 28 November | 12-6pm | St George’s Square
Exciting news – the Lidl truck is rolling into Luton as one of just nine special stops on its nationwide Freeway tour!
Head to the square for festive photo opportunities and sample seasonal treats. You can even share your Christmas wishes while you’re there.
Price – free
Snow Globe at Market Hill
Saturday 30 November | 11am – 4pm | Market Hill
Make your way to Market Hill this November and step into the giant snow globe for magical photo opportunities.
And if you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, you’re in luck! Catch the first flurry of snow from the new snow machine at 2pm and 4pm. Kids will also enjoy the twice-daily snow showers at the same times every day until Christmas Eve.
Price – free
Robin Hood Pantomime
Friday 6 December – Sunday 15 December | Various times | Luton Library Theatre
It’s behind you! Luton’s very own The Griffin Players are proudly presenting Robin Hood for this year’s pantomime at the Library Theatre. Get the family together for some unforgettable memories and a seasonal favourite.
Price – £15 adult, £13 concession, £52 family of four
Christmas at Hat Gardens
Saturday 7 December | 2pm – 6pm | Hat Gardens
Our favourite pocket park is bringing back Christmas cheer for a second year thanks to Luton Council and Luton BID.
Bring the kids along for free face-painting and live music, and don’t miss taking a festive selfie with the striking 7-foot LED penguin and a cheerful gingerbread man.
Price – free
The King’s Polar Bear
Saturday 7 December – Tuesday 24 December | Various times | Hat Factory
If just one day at the theatre wasn’t enough for you, the highly-rated Full House Theatre are presenting a brand new show – The King’s Polar Bear.
Perfect for families, this heartwarming tale of hope and opportunity will captivate children aged 4 and up – a festive treat as we count down to Christmas.
Price – £12 adult, £10 child + £1 booking fee each
Stockwood Illuminated
Friday 13 December – Tuesday 24 December | 4.30pm – 7pm | Stockwood Discovery Centre
One of our festive favourites – Stockwood Illuminated is back and better than ever this year. From the 13 December up to Christmas Eve, head to Stockwood Discovery Centre to see the bright and vibrant lights up against the most beautiful backdrop of the greenery.
Get ready to take yourself on a self-guided tour and get lost in the magic of the lights, sounds and colours.
Price – Adult £7.50 / £5.50 Concessions + £1 booking fee each
Christmas at Market Hill
Saturday 14 December | 2pm – 5pm | Market Hill
Luton BID is keeping the festive spirit alive on Market Hill with Santa’s Brass Band playing all your favourite Christmas tunes. Kids can look out for their mischievous Elf impersonator bringing smiles and laughter to shoppers throughout the day.
Shopping for last minute gifts? Soak up the festive atmosphere with music on Market Hill on the 21 December at 2pm and 3pm.
Price – free
The Orange Picture Club
Selected dates in December | Luton Library Theatre
Movie lovers – this one’s for you! The Orange Picture Club are screening some Christmas classics this December right in the heart of Luton in the Library Theatre.
Grab your popcorn, get cosy and catch some iconic Christmas films from Home Alone, to Gremlins, to the Muppet Christmas Carol.
Price – £4
That’s not all! Discover even more festive events and activities in Luton this season by visiting our what’s on guide.
And don’t forget to share your magical moments with us this season using #ChristmasInLuton – we’d love to see how you’re celebrating in Luton!
About the Author
Niall Barnby
Niall is a proud resident of Luton, striving to reshape the perceptions of his hometown. As a Place Activation and Marketing Officer with a degree in Business, he loves to shout about the best bits happening here to locals and visitors. From Sunday league football in Leagrave Park to discovering new music in the town centre, Niall loves Luton’s vibrant culture and is thrilled to be playing a part in its exciting future.
