Get ready to immerse yourself in the holiday magic with our ultimate guide to Christmas 2024 lights, lands, and trails across Essex! This season, towns and villages are lighting up with festive displays that are perfect for families and holiday lovers alike. From glittering light shows to enchanting trails and Santa’s Grotto experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Wander through breathtaking winter wonderlands adorned with twinkling lights, festive decor, and a joyful atmosphere. Many of these festive locations offer live entertainment, cozy food stalls with seasonal treats, and even special appearances from Santa himself! Grab your family and friends, and let the spirit of the season brighten your holiday with these unforgettable Christmas experiences in Essex this year.
1. Southend Switch On
Venue: Southend Town Centre
Town: Southend-on-Sea
Organiser: Southend City BID
Time: 12:00 PM – 7:45 PM
Price: FREE
Description: Join Southend City BID for festive fun at the Christmas Light Switch On in Southend. The city centre will be alive with performances, special guests, and festive activities throughout the day, culminating in the 6:00 PM switch-on.
Website: Southend Switch On
2. Enlightened – Castle Park Christmas Light Trail
Venue: Castle Park
Town: Colchester
Organiser: Enlightened Moments
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Price: £18.50 per adult; £12.50 per child; Infants FREE
Description: Wander through the beautiful illuminated Castle Park in Colchester. This enchanting trail features colorful displays and interactive light zones, perfect for a festive evening out with family and friends.
Website: Enlightened – Castle Park Christmas Light Trail
3. RHS Glow
Venue: RHS Garden Hyde Hall
Town: Chelmsford
Organiser: RHS Garden Hyde Hall
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:15 PM
Price: £9.25 – £16.50 per adult; £8.75 – £9.25 per child
Description: Explore Hyde Hall’s stunning gardens illuminated for the season. RHS Glow brings enchanting colors to the winter night sky. Entry is by pre-booked ticket only, with additional benefits for RHS members.
Website: RHS Glow
4. Santa’s Special Trains
Venue: Epping Ongar Railway
Town: Epping Forest
Organiser: Epping Ongar Railway
Time: 9:15 AM – 2:35 PM
Price: £55 – £65 for 2-person family space; £110 – £130 for 4-person family space; £250 – £300 for 8-person compartment
Description: Start your journey on a vintage London bus before boarding the festively decorated train. Enjoy music, festive food, and even meet Santa and his helpers on this magical holiday journey.
Website: Santa’s Special Trains
5. Santa Express
Venue: Audley End Miniature Railway
Town: Uttlesford
Organiser: Audley End Miniature Railway
Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Price: £29.50 – £40 for adults and children over 92cm; £14.75 – £20 for children under 92cm; FREE for children under 1 year and carers
Description: Embark on the Santa Express for a journey through the enchanting woods of Audley End. Meet Father Christmas, explore the magical woodland walk, and create reindeer food to help guide Santa’s sleigh.
Website: Santa Express
6. Havering Christmas Land
Venue: Harrow Lodge House
Town: Havering
Organiser: Havering Mind
Time: 4:30 PM
Price: £4.50 per person; FREE for babies under 2
Description: Experience the magic of Havering Christmas Land with an illuminated outdoor light display at the ‘secret garden’ of Harrow Lodge House. This festive attraction promises enchantment for the entire family.
Website: Havering Christmas Land
7. Ongar Christmas Lights Switch On
Venue: High Street
Town: Ongar, Epping Forest
Organiser: Anything Ongar
Time: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price: FREE
Description: Join the community for a festive celebration as Ongar lights up for the holidays. Enjoy food stalls, entertainment, and the annual Christmas Lights switch-on to kick off the season.
Website: Ongar Christmas Lights Switch On
8. Enchanted – Trail of Light
Venue: Colchester Zoo
Town: Colchester
Organiser: Colchester Zoological Society
Time: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Price: £12.50 – £15.00
Description: Walk through an illuminated wonderland at Colchester Zoo. The magical trail includes life-sized animal illuminations, interactive light displays, and a road train to enhance your experience.
Website: Enchanted – Trail of Light
9. Lighting Up Brentwood
Venue: Brentwood High Street
Town: Brentwood
Organiser: Brentwood Connected and Brentwood Borough Council
Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Price: FREE
Description: Join the festivities at Lighting Up Brentwood, a free event featuring food, gifts, entertainment, and the Santa Parade at 11:45 AM. Don’t miss the Christmas Light Switch-On at 5:00 PM!
Website: Lighting Up Brentwood
10. Christmas Train to Wickford
Venue: Departing from Southminster
Town: Southminster
Organiser: The Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership
Time: 1:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Price: £5 per adult; £3 per child
Description: Board the Christmas Train for a festive ride to Wickford, where each child will receive a free pass to visit Santa in his grotto at the Wickford Christmas Fayre.
Website: Christmas Train to Wickford
11. Light Up Maldon 2024
Venue: Maldon High Street
Town: Maldon
Organiser: Maldon Town Council
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: FREE
Description: Enjoy an evening of festive fun on Maldon High Street with craft markets, local performers, and Santa’s Grotto. The Christmas Lights will be switched on at 6:00 PM.
Website: Light Up Maldon 2024
These are just a few of the magical Christmas events lighting up Essex this winter. We’ll be visiting some of these dazzling spots ourselves, so stay tuned for our reviews! And if you’re looking for even more holiday inspiration, check out our articles on where to meet and greet Father Christmas, along with our upcoming guides to Christmas concerts and festive markets. Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with lights, laughter, and unforgettable memories!
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