Worcestershire’s Vale & Spa is a beautiful area at any time of the year and turns picturesque as the frost (and possibly snow) hits the ground. Please send us your photos of the area captured during the winter months to: @ValeandSpa | info@valeandspa.co.uk Keep a look out, as your photo could feature in one of our future guides. COMING IN
Get set for Christmas 4 Real Christmas trees 5 Christmas lights and highlights 6
Other events in the district 8
Christmas crafts 18
Christmas recipes 25
Worcestershire’s Vale & Spa provides an outstanding setting for the 2025 Christmas celebrations. With its beautiful countryside, charismatic towns, villages and shopping havens there is so much to see and do to give you that festive cheer.
The towns of Pershore, Evesham, Droitwich Spa and the charming village of Broadway will be lighting up for the festivities and with an abundance of festive food, drinks and seasonal entertainment, it won’t be hard to get into the Christmas spirit!
Santa and his reindeers will be visiting many of the seasonal events all over the area this year so make sure to visit him in his grotto. Numerous pubs and restaurants will have their own festive twists and events to bring about a jolly atmosphere with themed menus.
What’s more, you will never be far from independent retailers selling unique
products ensuring that you will be able to find the perfect gifts and stocking fillers in time for the big day.
Whether you are looking for a magical grotto, seasonal arts and crafts, mystical Christmas adventures or festive concerts, you will find plenty of opportunities in the numerous winter wonderland settings throughout the district.
This Christmas guide has been produced to provide you with all the information you will need to find a festive event nearby. We strongly recommend visiting the websites for full details regarding opening hours and ticket prices.
Prevent the stress of finding that special gift for loved ones by indulging in some festive shopping in the towns and villages.
Bustling with independent businesses, you’ll have the best chance to get a unique gift or experience which will create memories for years to come.
Whether it be a special piece of art, this year’s must have toy, a fancy meal at a restaurant or a stunning item of clothing, there’s a wealth of shopping opportunities to suit all ages and interests.
The traditional high streets are naturally the perfect place to start your shopping adventure, but with additional venues including The Valley at Evesham and Webbs of Wychbold to explore, there’s no need to try anywhere else.
Visit our shopping directory where businesses in Broadway, Droitwich Spa, Evesham and Pershore are handily presented and filterable by place and type to help with your preparation. You’ll be pleasantly reminded what amazing facilities you have on your doorstep.
All that shopping can easily make you hungry and thirsty, so don’t forget to complement your retail therapy by stopping for a bite to eat or refresh with a drink. All of the hospitality businesses in the towns and Broadway are listed on the shopping page.
As an alternative, there are numerous eateries outside of the main retail areas with some stunning rural settings. From riverside pubs or log-burning fires, there are many atmospheric experiences waiting to be had.
Seasonal menus are always a joy to indulge in, so consider Worcestershire’s Vale & Spa when your taste buds are desiring some festive food. Our dedicated Food & Drink page lists these hospitality businesses outside of the main centres
Nothing beats local produce so the area’s farm shops and butchers are certainly worth a visit for high quality ingredients to make a memorable meal. These too can be found on the Food & Drink page.
Nothing shouts Christmas more than a traditional, real Christmas tree with the smell and feel giving that authentic feeling. Below are some of the places within the district that will be selling them in the build-up to the big day.
Bishops Wood Nursery
Bishop Wood Lane, Stourport-on-Severn ///install.river.regulate
01299 251208
Broadway Road Nurseries
Broadway Road Plants, Broadway Road, Evesham, WR11 7RN ///suffix.emotional.ashes
07967 193587
Castle Nurseries
Castle Nurseries, Broadway Road, WR11 7RN
///claw.twinge.circles
01386 339677
Field House
Christmas Trees
The Field House, Chadwick Lane, Kidderminster, DY11 7YH ///premiums.requiring. mingles
01299 250884
Acton Fields, Acton Cottages, Stourport-onSevern, DY13 9TE
///fence.questions.taker
07855 544982
Golls Nurseries
Pitchill, Evesham WR11 8SN
///overheard.steadily. puncture
01386 871740
Home Farm
Christmas
Trees Spetchley, Worcester, WR5 1RS ///twist.intent.bike
07970 838393
Mill Lane Nursery
Mill Lane, Drakes
Broughton, Pershore, WR10 2AF
///sourcing.follow.clusters
01905 841650
Pinewood
Christmas Trees
Rectory Lane, Hartlebury, Kidderminster, DY11 7XA ///stir.equal.face
07599 943725
Smart Trees
Fields Farm House, Hill Furze Road, Bishampton, Pershore, WR10 2LZ
///newlywed.meal.safety info@smarttrees.co.uk
St Peters Garden Centre
Pear Tree Farm, Broomhall, Norton, Worcester, WR5 2NY
///ultra.garlic.gearing
01905 357595
Tower Trees
Abbey Road, Evesham, WR11 4SR
///dreamers.homecare. trumpet
01386 442882
Saturday 15 November
The Village Green | 5pm-6pm
Visit as dusk settles ready for the special guest to turn on the Christmas Tree as the village is lit up.
www.broadway-cotswolds.co.uk/ whats-on-diary
Saturday 22 November
Shopping Centre | 12pm–6pm
Enjoy market stalls, fairground rides, Santa’s Grotto, unique live entertainment and more before the Droitwich Spa’s Christmas lights switch on at 6pm.
Droitwich Spa Town Council 01905 774258 www.droitwichspa.gov.uk
Saturday 22 November
Market Place | 5.30pm
Christmas celebrations start from 3pm with live entertainment and activities.
Visit Santa in St Lawrence’s Church from 3pm. The light switch on will be followed by a spectacular firework finale and more live entertainment.
www.visitevesham.co.uk
Friday 28 - Saturday 29 November
Broad Street
What better way to get into the Christmas spirit than visiting the Georgian Christmas Fayre with live music, fairground rides, face painting, seasonal entertainment, Santa Claus and a plethora of festive food, drink and market stalls selling delightful unique goods.
Christmas Lights Switch On: Friday | 6pm Events time: Friday | 4pm-8pm Saturday | 10am-4pm www.pershorechristmasfayre.co.uk
Friday 28 November & Friday 5 December Village-wide | 4.30pm–8.30pm
Savour the Christmas magic of this beautiful Cotswold village with its outstanding festive atmosphere. Christmas lights, music, mulled wine, festive food, Santa Claus, his reindeers and a multitude of shops and eateries. Broadway is certainly the perfect place to start your Christmas celebrations this year. www.broadway-cotswolds.co.uk/ christmas-shopping-nights
There are plenty of events and activities for all ages taking place throughout the district with opportunities to meet Santa and his reindeer, enjoy seasonal songs, or even learn how to construct the perfect Christmas meal… to name but a few! We recommend that you check with each event before visiting as the limited spaces are certain to sell out fast.
Saturday 15 November –Sunday 16 November
Spetchley Artisan Christmas Market
Spetchley Park Gardens
Do some Christmas shopping for family and friends and browse the array of local stalls.
For more information, visit: www.spetchleyparkestate. co.uk/events/christmasmarket
Saturday 15 November –Sunday 16 November Winter Fair
Churchfields, Droitwich Spa
Browse over 40 stalls from local makers, discover beautifully handcrafted gifts and sample delicious seasonal treats.
For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.churchfields.farm/ events/winter-fair
Thursday 20 November 2025 – Saturday 3 January 2026
The Enchanted Gardens Oz Webbs at Wychbold Returning for a fifth magical year, follow the yellow brick road to start your Wizard of Oz adventure!
For more information and to book, visit: www.webbsdirect.co.uk/ enchantedgardens
Friday 21 November 2025 – Saturday 3 January 2026 Glow Golf
The Valley, Evesham
Experience playing golf at night with a unique, glow-inthe-dark golfing experience. For more information, visit: www.aztecadventure.co.uk/ activities/glow-golf
Saturday 22 November Christmas Festive Fair 2025
The Farm Animal Sanctuary, Evesham
Browse charming stalls filled with unique festive pieces, visit Santa and the animals, and listen to live music whilst during your Christmas Shopping! Adults: £3 Children £2.50.
To book, visit: www.thefarmanimalsanctuary. co.uk/event
Saturday 22 November
Fundraising Event:
Christmas Craft Fair
Hartlebury Castle
Complete your festive shopping and help support independent craft stallholders! Enjoy live music whilst doing your Christmas shopping. Tickets £5, includes mulled wine or hot chocolate.
For more information, visit: www.hartleburycastle.com/ event/christmas-craft-fair
Saturday 22 November –
Sunday 23 November
Breakfast with Santa
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Enjoy a Mini Potters breakfast, fun activities, and a trip to meet Santa in his North Pole Hut! Tickets cost £17.99 per child.
For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Saturday 22 November –
Sunday 23 November
Lunch with Santa
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Visit Santa in his North Pole Hut, participate in fun activities and enjoy a hearty lunch! Suitable for the whole family.
To book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Saturday 22 November –
Tuesday 23 December
Santa Express
Gloucestershire
Warwickshire Steam Railway
Journey to the North Pole by steam train where you will be able to visit Santa and his elves! Tickets from £28.50. 9.40am-2.55pm.
For more information, visit: www.gwsr.com/events/santaexpress-2025
Saturday 22 November 2025 – Saturday 3 January 2026
Hygge Dining Igloos Webbs of Wychbold
Private Hygge Igloos seating up to six people. Enjoy a glass of fizz and food from various Webbs menus! Tickets £25/£30 per head.
For more information and to book, visit: www.webbsdirect.co.uk/webbshygge-igloos
Saturday 22 November 2025 – Monday 5 January 2026
Evesham Town Centre & The Valley Adventure throughout the town and The Valley to discover hand-built penguins, each with its own unique character.
For more information and to participate, visit: www.thevalleyshopping.co.uk/ whatson/christmas-penguintrail
Sunday 23 November & Tuesday 25 November
Crafter’s Companion, The Valley
Create your own unique wreath! Tickets £50 per person, which includes a mince pie and a hot drink of your choice from the café.
For more information and to book, visit: www.thevalleyshopping.co.uk/ whatson/wreath-makingworkshops
Sunday 23 November –Tuesday 23 December
Merry Mischievous Mice Trail
Hartlebury Castle
Feel the Christmas Spirit as you explore the Castle and follow the tale of Merry Mischievous Mice. Keep your eyes open to discover mice that have been left behind! Tickets £1.
For more information and to book, visit: www.hartleburycastle.com/ event/merry-mischievousmice-trail
Thursday 27 November
The Tree of Light Lantern Parade
Market Place, Evesham
Join the annual Lantern parade, perfect for all ages! Craft your own lantern, dress up and watch as the Rotary Tree of Light shine bright.
For more information and to participate, visit: www.rotary-ribi.org
Thursday 27 November –Sunday 30 November
Wreath Decorating Workshops
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton nr. Worcester
Decorate a pre-foliaged wreath that’s uniquely yours. Tickets £45.99 which includes a pre-greened Christmas Wreath, variety of festive decorations, and a warm spiced apple juice with freshly baked goods.
For more information and to book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Friday 28 November
Christmas Dinner on your AGA
Eckington Manor Cookery School
A must attend one day cookery course to make a ‘stress less’ Christmas, taught by AGA specialist/tutor. Tickets £195, 10am-4pm.
To book, visit: www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk/ product/christmas-dinner-onyour-aga
Friday 28 November
Santa’s Grotto at Christmas Shopping Broadway Museum
Visit Santa and his reindeers at his Grotto! Participate in a Reindeer Trail to help round up Santa’s cheeky reindeers. Don’t forget to tell Santa your wish list! Tickets £6. For more information and to book, visit: www.broadwaymuseum.org. uk/product/christmas-grotto
Friday 28 November –Tuesday 23 December Light Trail &
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton nr. Worcester
Enjoy an evening stroll through a twinkling Light Trail. Tickets £7.99 includes free hot chocolate or tea, tradable activity sheet for chocolate and a chance to meet Santa!
For more information, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Saturday 29 November
Evesham Yule Market
Evesham Town Centre
Do some Christmas shopping at Evesham Yule Market! Stalls include traditional Christmas decoration and gifts, food and drinks, and Artisan items. Take the opportunity to visit the Asum Santa for a photo!
For more information, visit: www.visitevesham.co.uk/ event/evesham-xmas-yulemarket
Saturday 29 November
Santa’s Grotto
Rise+Grind, nr Pershore
Make unforgettable memories with family and friends, there are lots of fun activities to entertain all ages! Receive fun gifts to take home! Adults: £22.50 Children: £27.50.
For more information and to book, visit: www.risegrind.co.uk/christmas
Saturday 29 November –
Sunday 30 November
Breakfast with Santa
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Enjoy a Mini Potters breakfast, fun activities, and a trip to meet Santa in his North Pole Hut! Tickets cost £17.99 per child.
For more information and to book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Saturday 29 November –
Sunday 30 November
Grotto Experience
Little Owl Farm Park, Dunhampton
This fun day out involves meeting Father Christmas, receiving a gift from The Elves Toy Shop, Gingerbread Decorating, and all day to explore the park!
Dates and ticket prices vary, please visit: www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/ christmas-2025
Saturday 29 November –
Sunday 30 November
Lunch with Santa St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Visit Santa in his North Pole Hut, participate in fun activities and enjoy a hearty lunch! Suitable for the whole family.
To book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Saturday 29 November –
Sunday 30 November
Santa at the Zoo
All Things Wild, Honeybourne
Come along to a magical and affordable day at All Things Wild Zoo! Alongside meeting your favourite animals and dinosaurs, intertwine the experience with meeting Santa!
For more information and to book, visit: www.allthingswild.co.uk
Saturday 29 November –
Sunday 30 November The Valley Railway Advantage Christmas Express
The Valley Railway, Evesham
Hop aboard, enjoy a hot chocolate and travel to the North Pole to meet Father Christmas and his helpers. Adult £11: Children £8-£15. For more information and to book, visit: www.valleyrailwayadventure. co.uk/event/a-valleychristmas-2025
Saturday 29
November 2025 –Sunday 4 January 2026 Christmas at
Hanbury Hall
Hanbury Hall
Enjoy a nostalgic trip to the late 20th century as you explore this magnificent house dressed for Christmas in the 1970s & 80s with a riot of colour, baubles, tinsel galore & your favourite toys from the era. It is not one to miss! 10am-4pm. Normal site admission prices apply. For more information and to book, visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ worcestershire-herefordshire/ hanbury-hall
Sunday 30 November
The Santa Express
The Henrician, Evesham
Watch the Santa Express for a magical adventure, full of laughter and family fun! Audience members are encouraged to wear Christmas inspired clothes. For more information and to book, visit: www.henrician.org/events
Monday 1 December –Friday 17 December
Christmas by Candlelight
The Fleece Inn, Bretforton
Enjoy a magical and festive dining experience where the usual lighting is switched for candle and fairy lighting, creating the perfect atmosphere to accompany the festive menu available.
For more information, visit: www.thefleeceinn.co.uk/ christmas
Tuesday 2 December & Friday 5 December
Festive Wreath
Making
Hartlebury Castle
Create wonderfully unique Christmas wreaths using fresh greenery and some festive magic. Workshops last approx. 2 hours with tickets from £30. 10.30am and 6pm.
Dates and times can vary, visit: www.hartleburycastle.com/ event/festive-wreath-making-1
Thursday 4 December
Orchestra of the
Swan: Wintertide
Number 8, Pershore
A unique seasonal journey illustrating the rich and captivating traditions in relation to midwinter. Adults £17: 16s and under £11. 7.30pm.
For more information, visit: www.number8.org/event/ orchestra-of-the-swanwintertide
Thursday 4 December –Friday 5 December
Tinsel Tots Experience
Little Owl Farm Park, Dunhampton Park admission between 10am and 4pm, follow the elves to Father Christmas’ Grotto, continue to the Mini-Christmas village to get a treat from the Festive Sweet Shop then enjoy some festive fun with elves before a fun snow party! Children £20: Adult £13.95.
www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/ christmas-2025
Thursday 4 December –Saturday 6 December
Festive Wreath
The Lygon Arms, Broadway
As the weather cools and the festive season is around the corner, pre-book for these wreath making classes hosted by Shelley Spencer, Creative Director Broadway Florist.
www.lygonarmshotel.co.uk/ things-to-do/seasonal-wreathmaking
Friday 5 December –
Saturday 6 December
Santa’s Grotto at Christmas Shopping
Broadway Museum
Visit Santa and his reindeers at his Grotto! Participate in a Reindeer Trail to help round up Santa’s cheeky reindeers. Don’t forget to tell Santa your wish list! Tickets £6.
For more information and to book, visit: www.broadwaymuseum.org. uk/product/christmas-grotto
Saturday 6 December –
Sunday 7 December
Hartlebury Castle
Enjoy a jam-packed family Christmas experience – sing carols, decorate festive biscuits, do some Christmas crafts, meet Santa and more. 11am-4pm.
For more information, visit: www.hartleburycastle.com/afamily-christmas-2025
Saturday 6 December –
Sunday 7 December
Breakfast with Santa
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Enjoy a Mini Potters breakfast, fun activities, and a trip to meet Santa in his North Pole Hut! Tickets cost £17.99 per child.
For more information and to book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/events
Saturday 6 December –
Sunday 7 December
Grotto Experience
Little Owl Farm Park, Dunhampton
This fun day out involves meeting Father Christmas, receiving a gift from The Elves Toy Shop, Gingerbread Decorating, and all day to explore the park!
Dates and ticket prices vary, visit: www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/ christmas-2025
Saturday 6 December –
Sunday 7 December
Lunch with Santa
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Visit Santa in his North Pole Hut, participate in fun activities and enjoy a hearty lunch! Suitable for the whole family.
To book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/events
Saturday 6 December –
Sunday 7 December
Santa at the Zoo
All Things Wild, Honeybourne
Come along to a magical and affordable day at All Things Wild Zoo! Alongside meeting your favourite animals and dinosaurs, intertwine the experience with meeting Santa!
For more information and to book, visit: www.allthingswild.co.uk
Saturday 6 December –
Sunday 7 December
The Valley Railway Advantage Christmas Express
The Valley Railway, Evesham
Hop aboard, enjoy a hot chocolate and travel to the North Pole to meet Father Christmas and his helpers. Adult £11: Children £8-£15.
For more information and to book, visit: www.valleyrailwayadventure. co.uk/a-valley-christmas-2025
Saturday 6 December –Sunday 7 December
Crafter’s Companion, The Valley
Create your own unique wreath! Tickets £50 per person, which includes a mince pie and a hot drink of your choice from the café. For more information, visit: www.thevalleyshopping.co.uk/ whatson/wreath-makingworkshops
Sunday 7 December
Christmas Dog Parade
The Valley, Evesham
With prizes to win and a festive doggy parade there is no reason to miss this! £3.50 per dog, includes entry to the parade and a medal. For more information, visit: www.thevalleyshopping.co.uk/ whatson/christmas-dogparade-1
Monday 8 December –
Saturday 13 December
PODS: Step Into Christmas
Number 8, Pershore
Get ready for a magical night of festive fun with Step Into Christmas with PODS. Ticket prices vary, for more information visit: www.number8.org/event/ pods-step-into-christmas
Wednesday 10 December & Friday 12 December
Festive Wreath
Making
Hartlebury Castle
Create wonderfully unique Christmas wreaths using fresh greenery and some festive magic. Workshops last approx. 2 hours with tickets from £30. 10.30am and 6pm.
Dates and times vary, please visit: www.hartleburycastle.com/ event/festive-wreath-making-1
Thursday 11 December
An Italian Christmas
Eckington Manor Cooking School
Learn new culinary skills to showcase to family and friends this Christmas, including mixing methods and finishing techniques. Tickets £109. 10am.
www.eckingtonmanorcookery school.co.uk/courses
Thursday 11 December
Festive Folk & Morris
The Fleece Inn, Bretforton
Join the Fleece Ceilidh Band for live tunes and traditional dances suitable for the whole family!
For more information and to book, visit: www.thefleeceinn.co.uk/ christmas
Thursday 11 December –
Friday 12 December
Tinsel Tots Experience
Little Owl Farm Park, Dunhampton Park admission between 10am and 4pm, follow the elves to Father Christmas’ Grotto, continue to the Mini-Christmas village to get a treat from the Festive Sweet Shop then enjoy some festive fun with elves before a fun snow party! Children £20: Adult £13.95.
www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/ christmas-2025
Friday 12 December &
Friday 19 December
Santa & Soft Play
All Things Wild, Honeybourne
Limited time only, enjoy evening Soft Play with Santa! Finish the excitement with a memorable gift from Santa’s toy store.
To book, visit: www.allthingswild.co.uk/ events/santa-soft-play-13th20th-december-pm
Saturday 13 December
A Christmas Wassail Hartlebury Castle
Visit Hartlebury Castle this Christmas to witness Crescent’s popular Wassail. With choral music, spoken word and comedy all brought together, it is not one to miss. Tickets £25. 3pm and 7.30pm.
www.hartleburycastle. com/event/a-christmaswassail-2025-1
Saturday 13 December
Santa’s Grotto at Christmas Shopping
Broadway Museum
Visit Santa and his reindeers at his Grotto! Participate in a Reindeer Trail to help round up Santa’s cheeky reindeers. Don’t forget to tell Santa your wish list! Tickets £6.
For more information and to book, visit: www.broadwaymuseum.org. uk/product/christmas-grotto
Saturday 13 December –Sunday 14 December
Breakfast with Santa St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Enjoy a Mini Potters breakfast, fun activities, and a trip to meet Santa in his North Pole Hut! Tickets cost £17.99 per child.
For more information and to book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Saturday 13 December –Sunday 14 December
Grotto Experience
Little Owl Farm Park, Dunhampton
This fun day out involves meeting Father Christmas, receiving a gift from The Elves Toy Shop, Gingerbread Decorating, and all day to explore the park!
Dates and ticket prices vary, please visit: www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/ christmas-2025
Saturday 13 December –
Sunday 14 December
Lunch with Santa
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Visit Santa in his North Pole Hut, participate in fun activities and enjoy a hearty lunch! Suitable for the whole family.
To book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Saturday 13 December –
Sunday 14 December
Santa at the Zoo
All Things Wild, Honeybourne
Come along to a magical and affordable day at All Things Wild Zoo! Alongside meeting your favourite animals and dinosaurs, intertwine the experience with meeting Santa!
For more information and to book, visit: www.allthingswild.co.uk
Saturday 13 December –
Sunday 14 December
The Valley Railway Advantage Christmas Express
The Valley Railway, Evesham
Hop aboard, enjoy a hot chocolate and travel to the North Pole to meet Father Christmas and his helpers. Adult £11: Children £8-£15.
For more information and to book, visit: www.valleyrailwayadventure. co.uk/event/a-valleychristmas-2025
Sunday 14 December
A Magical Christmas Family Concert
Hartlebury Castle
Get ready to feel festive, Worcestershire Winds Concert Band are back! Sit back and enjoy seasonal favourites in Act One before the main event in Act Two.
For more information, visit: www.hartleburycastle.com/ event/a-magical-christmasfamily-concert-1
Sunday 14 December & Monday 22 December
Royal Ballet: The Nutcracker
Number 8, Pershore
For a wonderful family experience watch Peter Wright’s much-loved production for the Royal Ballet, which keeps true to the spirit of the festive ballet classic.
For more information and to book, visit: www.number8.org/event/royalballet-the-nutcracker
Tuesday 16 December
A Christmas Night at the Opera
The Regal Cinema, Evesham
Enjoy a spectacular evening of world class opera with international artists. Join in the Christmas spirit with a singalong carol! Tickets £5 per person.
www.theregal.ac/web
Tuesday 16 December & Sunday 21 December
Andre Rieu’s 2025
Christmas Concert:
Merry Christmas
Number 8, Pershore
Get ready to be transported to the wondrous world of enchanting glamour that is André’s winter wonderland filled with festive spirit!
For more information, visit: www.number8.org/event/ andre-rieus-2025
Thursday 18 December
Festive Folk
Number 8, Pershore
An evening of carols, wassails, and festive favourites. Tickets £16. 7.30pm.
For more information and to book, visit: www.number8.org/event/ festive-folk
Thursday 18 December –
Friday 19 December
Tinsel Tots Experience
Little Owl Farm Park, Dunhampton
Park admission between 10am and 4pm, follow the elves to Father Christmas’ Grotto, continue to the Mini-Christmas village to get a treat from the Festive Sweet Shop then enjoy some festive fun with elves before a fun snow party! Children £20: Adult £13.95.
www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/ christmas-2025
Thursday 18 December –
Wednesday 24 December
Breakfast with Santa
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Enjoy a Mini Potters breakfast, fun activities, and a trip to meet Santa in his North Pole Hut! Tickets cost £17.99 per child.
For more information and to book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Thursday 18 December –Wednesday 24 December
Lunch with Santa
St Peters Garden Centre, Norton, nr. Worcester
Visit Santa in his North Pole Hut, participate in fun activities and enjoy a hearty lunch! Suitable for the whole family.
For more information and to book, visit: www.stpetersgardencentre. co.uk/webshop/events
Friday 19 December
‘A Christmas Carol’
Norbury Theatre, Droitwich Spa
A one man performance of ‘A Christmas Carol.’ Tickets £10.78 or £7.55 concession. 7.30pm.
For more information and to book, visit: www.norburytheatre.co.uk
Saturday 20 December
Christmas with the Flower Bands 2025
Number 8, Pershore
The Flowers Band return with a seasonal programme full of festive favourites, music from Christmas classics, festive film music, original brass band music & more. 2pm. Tickets £20 (16 and under £5).
For more information and to book, visit: www.number8.org/event/ christmas-with-the-flowersband
Saturday 20 December
Santa’s Grotto at Christmas Shopping
Broadway Museum
Visit Santa and his reindeers at his Grotto! Participate in a Reindeer Trail to help round up Santa’s cheeky reindeers. Don’t forget to tell Santa your wish list! Tickets £6. For more information and to book, visit: www.broadwaymuseum.org. uk/product/santas-grottowith-trail
Saturday 20 December –
Tuesday 23 December
Grotto Experience
Little Owl Farm Park, Dunhampton
This fun day out involves meeting Father Christmas, receiving a gift from The Elves Toy Shop, Gingerbread Decorating, and all day to explore the park! Dates and ticket prices vary, please visit: www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk/ christmas-2025
Saturday 20 December –
Tuesday 23 December
Singalong with Santa
Hartlebury Castle
Get into the Christmas spirit this season by singing along to Christmas classics with Santa then relax with a tasty pastry and warm hot chocolate while Santa reads a story. 9.30am.
For more information and to book, visit: www.hartleburycastle.com/ event/singalong-with-santa
Saturday 20 December –
Wednesday 24 December
Santa at the Zoo
All Things Wild, Honeybourne
Come along to a magical and affordable day at All Things Wild Zoo! Alongside meeting your favourite animals and dinosaurs, intertwine the experience with meeting Santa!
For more information and to book, visit: www.allthingswild.co.uk
Saturday 20 December –Wednesday 24 December
The Valley Railway Advantage Christmas Express
The Valley Railway, Evesham
Hop aboard, enjoy a hot chocolate and travel to the North Pole to meet Father Christmas and his helpers. Adult £11: Children £8-£15.
For more information and to book, visit: www.valleyrailwayadventure. co.uk/event/a-valleychristmas-2025
Sunday 21 December
Festive Folk & Morris
The Fleece Inn, Bretforton Brighten the shortest day of the year with cheers of lively local Morris side and the charm of traditional tunes. For more information, visit: www.thefleeceinn.co.uk/ christmas
Monday 22 December
Fundraising Event:
Santa Paws
Hartlebury Castle
Bring along your special furry pet to meet Santa, each pet will receive a treat and a special gift to take home for Christmas Day. Take the opportunity to take photos, enjoy a winter stroll and visit the Castle.
For more information, visit: www.hartleburycastle.com/ event/santa-paws
Saturday 27 December
2025 – Thursday 1 January 2026
Mince Pie Special Gloucestershire
Warwickshire Steam Railway
Enjoy a scenic adventure through the Cotswolds countryside while indulging on a mince pie and hot drink. 10am-5pm.
For more information please visit: www.gwsr.com/events/ mincepie-special-2025
Looking for a fun way to keep little hands busy this holiday season? This section is packed with joyful, easy-to-make projects that will spark creativity and holiday cheer! From handmade ornaments to festive decorations and simple DIY gifts, there’s something for every young crafter. So grab your materials – it’s time to make some merry magic!
Create your own little friend to keep you company during Christmas! You can create any animal you desire with just a few folds of paper.
Gather 2 different sized pieces of squared paper.
Fold the paper, covering ¾ of the square.
the paper in half twice.
Repeat for the 3 other sides of the square.
and fold the corners towards the middle.
Open two opposite corners.
Fold up the two long sides upwards and then one short end. 7
Fold the flap into the centre.
Repeat on the other side to create a cube.
Once the cube is made, repeat the steps on the other piece of paper. 10
Stack the bigger half on top of the smaller cube.
Now you’ve created your own little friend. Feel free to give it a name and tag us on Facebook, we can’t wait to see your creations!
Finally, decorate your friend!
Gather some paper to fold and decorate an origami Christmas tree with loved ones. You can turn it into a simple competition for best decorated Christmas tree or simply to create heartwarming memories. Follow these instructions to create your own unique tree!
Gather 5 sheets of squared paper in 3 different sizes. 5 sheets x 3 sizes 1
2
Fold a piece of paper diagonally and repeat with the opposite side.
5
Open and repeat on the other side using the same corner. Repeat with the other 3 corners. 4
7
Fold up and tuck behind the big triangle.
Turn over the paper, showing the coloured side.
8
Fold the top triangle down, revealing a new separated triangle.
Fold a corner into the middle, covering ¾ of the noncoloured side. 3
Pinch two opposite corners together. 6
Fold the triangle in half. 9
Open the paper, showing the inside. Repeat the previous steps with the other sheets.
Gather two folded sheets.
Align a folded sheet with another, fold the hood down where it meets the middle.
Repeat with the rest of the same sized sheets, forming a base for the tree. 13
Repeat with the different sized sheets and stack them on top of each other, with the biggest at the bottom. 14
Now you’ve created your own Christmas Tree.
Feel free to decorate with a star at the top or adding your own self-made ornaments!
You’ve completed your Christmas tree! Now you can decorate!
What you need
• Paperback book at least ¾ inch thick
Optional extras
• Red twine
• Star decoration
• Glue gun
• Picture frame larger than book when opened
• White cardstock cut to fit the frame
Detailed instructions over the page
• If your book is more than 1 inch thick, cut it down to 1 inch.
• Determine the halfway point of your book. Open the book wide at the halfway point and crease the spine. Crease the spine 3 times before the middle crease and 3 times after the middle crease at 25 page intervals. This will help the book lay open.
• Start folding 50 numbered pages before the halfway point and finish folding 50 numbered pages after your halfway point (50 numbered pages = 25 actual folds before and after the centre point.)
• Starting 50 numbered pages before the halfway point, open the book up wide. Take the top right-hand corner of the page and fold it down to the centre of the book, as far as it will go. Make a tight, clean fold and crease it well.
• Fold the same page again, this time taking the first folded edge into the centre, as far as it will go. Crease.
• A small corner of the page will now be hanging past the bottom of the book. Fold it down along the bottom edge of the book to crease. This will make a small triangle that you can tuck inside the original fold so there is a straight edge along the bottom.
• Turn the folded page to the left, and repeat with the next page. Remember, you will be folding about 50 total pages (100 numbered pages). As you get more pages folded, it will become a little harder to make a nice fold, especially at the top. You can use your fingernail or fingernail file (or even a toothpick) to turn the paper at that top corner and get a sharp fold.
• Continue until you have about 50 folded pages and the Christmas tree looks full and the book lies flat. If your pages are a little thicker, you may only need 40 folded pages.
• If desired, decorate the Christmas tree. Hot glue rows of twine so they appear to wrap around the tree. Hot glue a star decoration on top.
• If you’d like your tree to sit in a frame, make sure the frame has a piece of white cardstock in it. Stand the frame up horizontally and set the book in it. You can hot glue the book to the white cardstock to make it more stable if desired.
This Christmas craft idea is not our own and has been reproduced from: www.itsalwaysautumn.com
The holiday season is the perfect time to gather in the kitchen, roll up your sleeves, and create a little magic. Our resident baker ELFie McQueen has served up some easy, festive, and super fun recipes designed especially for kids.
Whether your little ones are seasoned kitchen helpers or just getting started, these joyful treats are simple enough for small hands – and tasty enough for the whole family to enjoy. Each recipe is a chance to mix learning with laughter and make Christmas memories that last a lifetime. So grab your aprons, preheat the oven (with a grown-up’s help!), and let the Christmas cooking adventure begin!
These are a very delicious way to use up any leftover fondant icing you may have after decorating your Christmas cake and can be eaten at any time (not just after 8pm!)
• 200g fondant icing
• Peppermint flavouring
• 100g dark chocolate
1. Mould the icing in your hands to soften. Make a well in the middle and add the peppermint flavouring – start with a few drops at first and mix it in until it is well distributed. Repeat this process until you are happy with the level of mint flavouring.
2. Lightly dust your work surface with icing sugar and roll out the minty icing until ½cm thick.
3. Using small cutters cut out shapes and place on a baking tray. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile melt the chocolate in a bowl (using a microwave or on the hob in a bowl placed on a saucepan filled with water – make sure the hot water does not touch the bowl).
5. Coat the mints in the chocolate and leave to set.
6. I painted mine with edible gold dust but you could decorate with sprinkles or drizzles of white chocolate.
Florentines can be quite expensive to buy but are easy to make at home and are a great gift. They contain a relatively small amount of flour so can easily be made with gluten free flour without affecting the taste. To mix things up try using milk or white chocolate on the bases, or a combination of all 3.
• 50g butter
• 50g light muscovado sugar
• 50g golden syrup
• 50g plain flour
• 50g glacé cherries – chopped
• 75g flaked almonds
• 50g dried cranberries – chopped
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 175g good quality dark chocolate
1. Heat the oven to 160C/gas mark 4. Line two baking trays with baking paper.
2. Melt the butter, sugar and golden syrup over a low heat, stirring frequently. Remove from the heat and whisk in the flour.
3. Add the cherries, flaked almonds, cranberries and orange zest.
4. Scoop tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the baking trays, shaped in rough circles. Leave room for them to spread.
5. Bake for 10 mins until golden.
6. If the Florentines spread a little too thinly during baking they can be reshaped whilst still hot by pushing gently at the edges with a blunt knife.
7. Whilst the Florentines cool melt the chocolate in a bowl (using a microwave or on the hob in a bowl placed on a saucepan filled with water – make sure the hot water does not touch the bowl).
8. Turn the Florentines over and cover the base of each in chocolate. When the chocolate is firm enough to hold its shape, use a fork to draw wavy lines across the chocolate.
My kids love choosing the cutters, cutting out the shapes and covering these biscuits with LOTS of decorations. They get really creative and it never fails to put a smile on their faces.
• 100g butter
• 3 tbsp golden syrup
• 100g dark muscovado sugar
• ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 225g plain flour
• 50g icing sugar
• Sprinkles
• Jelly tots/Smarties or other sweets of your choice
1. Heat the butter, syrup and sugar together on the hob until melted, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Mix together the bicarb, ginger, cinnamon and flour in a large bowl. Pour in the butter/syrup mixture and stir to combine, then use your hands to bring together to form a dough. Be careful as the mixture may still be quite hot.
3. Sandwich the dough between baking paper and roll out to a thickness of ½cm. Transfer to a baking sheet to keep it flat, leaving the parchment in place, then chill in the fridge for 1 hr.
4. Heat the oven to 170C fan/gas mark 5 and line two baking trays. Remove the dough from the fridge and cut out shapes using cookie cutters. When you have cut out the first batch the dough should still be firm enough to push together and roll out without refrigerating again.
5. Place the shapes on the lined baking trays, leaving space for them to spread.
6. Bake for 10-12 mins (smaller shapes may take less time, larger will need longer).
7. Leave to cool completely on the baking trays.
8. Mix the icing sugar with 1-2 tbsp water, transfer to a piping bag with a thin nozzle and use to decorate the biscuits.
