Christmas in Peterborough is magical. From counting down our Christmas lights to shopping at the craft market stalls and attending our annual wreath laying service, there is always something on for the whole family.
Save this page so that you can find out how to join us for some festive fun and cheer at various events across the city. We'll be updating this page throughout the merry season.
Peterborough City Council Christmas events
Peterborough's Christmas tree arrival
Christmas celebrations begin the week commencing Monday 17 November when Peterborough's Cathedral Square Christmas tree arrives.
Peterborough Christmas lights switch-on
3,2,1 - The official Peterborough Christmas lights switch-on is back on Friday 21 November. Eastenders and Only Fools and Horses star, Steven Woodcock will begin the countdown at 7pm with a little help from Father Christmas and Councillor Judy Fox, Mayor of Peterborough.
The family friendly event is running from 4:45pm until 7:30pm with incredible live music showcasing talent from across the city. And that's not all, expect a few surprises across the night.
A huge thank you to all of our following sponsors:
Once Upon a Christmas Wish
From Friday 28 November, you can enjoy the magical Once Upon a Christmas Wish attractions at Cathedral Square - open Thursday to Sundays (Thursday - Friday 2pm until 8pm and Saturday - Sunday 10am until 8pm) until Monday 15 December, then daily until Christmas Eve (10am until 8pm). Bring the whole family to explore the festive huts.
You can then stop by the children's rides or the gingerbread photo opportunity. For more holiday-themed fun, you can purchase tickets for the Santa’s grotto, elf workshop and photo swing near Cathedral Arch. Tickets are on sale now over on the Eventbrite website.
Christmas on Bridge Street
It's the most wonderful time of the year to head over to Bridge Street and browse stalls on the festive market.
Visit Thursday to Sundays between 9.30am and 4:30pm from Thursday 4 December until Sunday 21 December. On Friday 21 November the market will be open 9.30am until 8pm.
Christmas wreath laying service
Join us for the annual Christmas wreath laying service on Thursday 18 December at 10am. The Mayor of Peterborough, Councillor Judy Fox, and President of the Peterborough Branch of the Royal British Legion will remember those who have lost their lives in conflict. The event will be held outside the Town Hall at the war memorial.
Other Christmas events across the city
Christmas Craft and Gift Market
Its time to start your Christmas shopping as Peterborough Cathedral hosts the Christmas Craft and Gift Market on Friday 14 November until Sunday 16 November. Support small local businesses and book in advance on the Peterborough Cathedral website to avoid joining a long queue. The market will run on Friday 14 November between 1pm and 8pm, Saturday 15 November 10am to 5pm and Sunday 16 November 12pm until 4pm.
Christmas Family Film at the Odeon Luxe
Peterborough Positive are kicking off the festive season early with a free screening of The Grinch (U) on Saturday 15 November at Odeon Luxe at 10:30am. You can book tickets on the Peterborough Positive website.
The Wonder of Christmas: Immersive Light and Sound Display
Uncover real magic from the Wednesday 19 November as Cathedral Green is transformed into a spectacular light trail. This trail is running in the evenings up until Thursday 4 December from 4pm until 8pm. You can book tickets on the Peterborough Cathedral website.
Peterborough Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival
Peterborough Cathedral is hosting its first Christmas Tree festival between Wednesday 19 November and Wednesday 7 January. Bring your family or friends to admire the 40 beautifully decorated trees, each decked out by local charities, community groups, and businesses. You can book tickets on the Peterborough Cathedral website. Tickets are based on a donation, recommended at £3 per person.
Queensgate Shopping Centre light switch-on
Queensgate Shopping Centre is holding its very own light switch-on event on Saturday 22 November from 1pm to 4:30pm.
Nene Park Winter Festival
Head on over to the Nene Park Winter Festival, which is running from Friday 28 November until Tuesday 23 December. This year your little helper can try hands-on crafts, graduate from Elf School and so much more. Tickets are available on the Nene Park website. Sessions run at various times in the run up to Christmas.
Christmas Magic 2025 concert
Local choir group, Peterborough Male Voice Choir and Peterborough Voices will be performing your favourite Christmas songs at the Peterborough Cathedral on Saturday 13 December 2025 at either 2:30pm or 7:30pm showings. Tickets start from £18 and are available on the Peterborough Sings website.
Christmas Family Film at St John’s Church
Get in the festive spirit with Peterborough Positive's free screening of Arthur Christmas (U) on Saturday 13 December at St John's Church at 1pm. You can book tickets on the Peterborough Positive website.
Christmas By Candlelight concert
Another Christmas concert not to be missed is the Christmas By Candlelight production. Performed live at the Peterborough Cathedral on Monday 22 December at 7:30pm. Tickets are available on the Concerts By Candlelight website.