Top Things to Do Around Reading, This Festive Season

Reading is a university town, that not only hosts one of the world’s most popular music festivals, it’s also a cultural hub of history, art and sport. It’s home to Reading Football Club, who play in both the English Football League and FA Cup and The London Irish, a Rugby Union Club.

One of the best times to explore the town is during the festive seasons, so whether you’re undecided on going home for Christmas, hosting friends or family in the town, or still unsure as to what to do this holiday, Reading won’t disappoint. These are just a few local attractions and the tip of the iceberg of this great place, The English Language Centre call home…

1. Christmas Lights Switch On

Join the Jelly Artists for festive decoration making family fun, alongside the Christmas Light switch on, on 16th November from 13:00 to 17:00 at the Broad Street Mall. There’s a chance to make your own Christmas tree decorations, as well as creating winter collages and crafts.

2. Reading Winter on Ice

For a great atmosphere and fun for all the family, visit the Reading Winter on Ice in The Forbury Garden’s. It’s one of Berkshire’s top Christmas destinations, running from 16th November, so don’t miss out!

3. The Reading ETSY Local Made Christmas Market

This shopping event is hosted by the local ETSY team with hand-made and locally produced jewellery, artwork, prints, home-wares, clothes and more. The Market is scheduled for Saturday 30th November, between 11:00 – 18:00 at St Laurence’s Church.

4. Carols by Candlelight

Get into the festive mood with Carols by Candlelight, at the beautiful Reading Minister of St Mary. Join hundreds on Thursday 5th December at 6pm and enjoy traditional carols along with a children’s choir. The Launchpad event is in its 12th year of running, with all proceeds going to the Reading homeless charity.

5. Cinderella Christmas Panto 2019 at The Hexagon

To get a real feel for the UK’s theatrical entertainment, take yourself to go and see a traditional pantomime, in this year’s adaptation of Cinderella at The Hexagon. You’ll enjoy some family fun, with music, typical local jokes and slapstick comedy. Tickets are on sale from Saturday 7th December – Sunday 5th January.

6. Christmas Book Market

From 30th November from 12:00 till 14:00, get your inner bookworm on, with Christmas bargains, quality pre-loved and new books on family, local and social history at great prices. Buy yourself or someone else a gift that lasts and makes a difference.

7. Thermomix Christmas Cookery Lessons

Running from 29th November with a further two events, why not try your hand at a Christmas cookery class? Based at the Thermomix branch office in Reading, you’ll get hints, tips and tricks on how to cook some festive favourites, from the experts themselves. All proceeds go to the Crisis Charity.

So, what are you waiting for?! Get the most out of the holiday period and discover some of the great activities Reading has to offer. We don’t think you’ll be left disappointed…