Enjoy festive family fun in Guildford this Christmas
A free festive family fun day in Guildford town centre marks the start of the Christmas season.
Join us and our town centre partners, Experience Guildford, as we launch Christmas from 11am on Sunday 19 November.
Music, dance and drama will bring Tunsgate Arch and Friary Street to life throughout the festive day. Enjoy the merriment of the Bigmouth Christmas disco and groove to some Christmas beats as the snow falls outside the Guildhall.
Discover a multitude of free performances, face painting, baubles and bands. Grab a Christmas selfie with Santa's elves in the giant snow globe, or the mascots on parade.
Shoppers will have the chance to enjoy our colourful Christmas market and grab a gift or festive treat. This marks the start of a month of eclectic markets of crafts, gifts, antiques, farm produce and more.
On select days in November and December, visitors can enjoy live music in pubs and bars. A variety of children's workshops will keep younger shoppers entertained at weekends including a visit from the big man himself!
The sparkling Christmas lights will continue to brighten the streets in our town centre bringing festive joy to everyone.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Julia McShane said:
"I'm so pleased that with funding from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, we're able to kick start the Christmas period in Guildford and bring some festive cheer to the town. At Christmas, it's more important than ever for us all to come together and make cherished memories. Our festive family fun day promises to do exactly that. To bring some fun filled joy and laughter to us all."
Lead Councillor for events, Cllr Catherine Houston commented:
"We're working with Experience Guildford and our arts and culture partners to provide free entertainment and activities for everyone. This fun family day will be full of exciting activities and surprises promising to deliver the magic of Christmas. Whether you're a jolly elf, a curious child, a merry music lover, or someone who simply loves a great time, this event is your ticket to some Christmas spirit!"
Vida Ragbir, Marketing and Events manager at Experience Guildford added:
"I am really looking forward to the start of Christmas. Working in partnership with Guildford Borough Council means that we are able to offer visitors to the town a fun packed day of entertainment and activities. Remember to pick up your Little Book of Offers on the day and enjoy some of the fabulous offers from our eateries and retailers!"
This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (opens new window). The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government's Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.