Experience Christmas in Chester

From its winter market to its spectacular parades, Christmas in Chester does not disappoint. Walking through the city is a real treat, with decorations and twinkling lights everywhere you look. What’s more, there are plenty of family activities to enjoy during the festive period—ideal if you’re planning a trip with the kids.

Some of the best Christmas things to do in Chester include:

• Chester’s winter market
• Carol Concert at Chester Cathedral
• Twelve Days of Christmas Parade
• Holiday Season at Storyhouse
• The Lanterns at Chester Zoo
• Santa’s Enchanted Grotto at Grosvenor Shopping Centre
• ChesterBoat Santa Special Cruise

Want to find out more? This guide will take you through unmissable events in Chester this season, including ticket prices and where to stay in the city.

Chester’s winter market

Looking for things to do in Chester at Christmas? Soak up the lively atmosphere at Chester’s winter market. This is a magical event that takes place in the square around the town hall, where you’ll find stalls selling everything from delicious food to handcrafted gifts. This year, Chester’s market will celebrate its 10^th anniversary, making it even more special. Wrap up warm and spend an evening in the charming city centre.

The market will be open from the 18^th of November until the 21^st of December 2022. Opening times are as follows:

• Monday to Wednesday: 10:30 to 18:30
• Thursday to Saturday: 10:30 to 20:00
• Sunday: 10:30 to 18:30

Carol Concert at Chester Cathedral

If you love singing carols during the festive season, you don’t want to miss Chester’s Annual Christmas Carol Concert. Held in the beautiful cathedral, this event will feature a selection of popular Christmas music and readings. Refreshments will also be available, such as mulled wine and mince pies or biscuits and juice for children.

If you haven’t visited Chester Cathedral before, there’s no better time to do so than at Christmas. The carol concert will take place from 19:30 on the 10^th and 17^th of December 2022. Tickets cost £25.00 per person. 

Twelve Days of Christmas Parade

If you’re heading to Chester this November, don’t miss the Twelve Days of Christmas Parade. Kicking off the festive season in style, this vibrant parade begins at Bridge Street and travels through the city’s main streets. Expect plenty of fun surprises, including snow and glistening lights. A brass band will lead the procession, and there will be musicians and actors singing carols along the way.

This event provides a fantastic opportunity to explore Chester’s city centre and witness the buildings adorned with decorations. It will take place on the 24^th of November 2022, beginning at 19:00.

Holiday Season at Storyhouse

Looking for family Christmas events in Chester? Head to the city’s Storyhouse, which will run an exclusive programme of much-loved films. Grab some popcorn and immerse yourself in favourite movies such as How the Grinch Stole Christmas and The Muppet Christmas Carol.

You can also enjoy live music at the venue’s Kitchen café, from brass bands to choirs. Performances will take place on selected dates from the 5^th to the 19^th of December 2022.

The Lanterns at Chester Zoo

For the 11^th year running, Chester Zoo will be transformed into a winter haven with its incredible lantern display. The Lanterns event involves a journey around the zoo, where you will discover different areas lit up with glowing illuminations. There will be 11 fantastical worlds to explore—from festive settings to animal installations. This is a brilliant event to enjoy as a family this year. Take a look at our hotels near Chester Zoo to make the most out of your trip.  

The Lanterns at Chester Zoo will run at various times, from the 11^th of November until the 23^rd of December 2022. Ticket prices range from £15.00 to £20.50 for adults and £12.00 to £17.00 for children.

Santa’s Enchanted Grotto at Grosvenor Shopping Centre

This Christmas, come and meet Santa at Chester’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre. This is the perfect activity for little ones, featuring a Narnia-inspired winter setting and plenty of festive surprises. It will take place at various times from the 25^th of November until the 24^th of December 2022.

Grosvenor Shopping Centre is also an excellent place for present-buying. Home to a range of stores, you’re guaranteed to find everything you’re looking for here.

ChesterBoat Santa Special Cruise

Searching for fun things to do in Chester in December? Why not experience a one-hour festive cruise along the River Dee? The boat will be decked out with fun decorations, and your ticket will also include a mince pie or a gingerbread man to enjoy during the journey. Plus, children will have the chance to meet Father Christmas and receive a wonderful gift.

This cruise will be available on the 4^th, 10^th and 17^th of December 2022. Tickets are £12.00 for adults, £14.00 for children aged 2 to 10, £8.50 for children aged 11 to 17, and £2.00 for infants.  

Christmas at Leonardo Hotel Chester

If you’re spending time in Chester this Christmas, you’ll need a luxury hotel to unwind in. Our Leonardo Hotel Chester is the perfect choice, ideally located near the city centre. Featuring 94 spacious rooms, an onsite restaurant and a stylish bar, it has everything you need for a relaxing stay. Plus, it’s only a short distance from some of Chester’s most popular attractions, so you can make the most of your time in the city.