Christmas Concerts and Live Music in Reading

What says Christmas better than some festive music?! If you're looking for a musical event to celebrate the season, there are plenty of options for all interests in Reading this year.

Live Music

If you’re looking to enjoy some festive live music in Reading this season, you’re in for a treat! Head to the centre of town where a stage on Broad Street will take the spotlight for the big Christmas light switch-on! Then stick around, Broad Street will come alive with live music each weekend up until Christmas, filling the town with festive cheer.

Christmas Concerts

If you're looking for traditional carol concerts in Reading, you won't be disappointed - with plenty of shows to fill your calendar throughout the season. 

Step Into Christmas | 14 November

Back for 2026, bigger and brighter, Step Into Christmas is a feel-good festive spectacular packed with Christmas classics, heartwarming ballads and upbeat festive anthems. Expect dazzling performances, stunning festive visuals and a sensational live band, with plenty of chances to sing along from start to finish.

Reading Symphony Orchestra: The Nutcracker | 28 November

Journey into the world of The Nutcracker as Reading Symphony Orchestra performs Tchaikovsky’s complete ballet score. From the Christmas Eve party to the magical Land of Sweets, experience one of classical music’s most recognisable festive masterpieces, conducted by Cathal Garvey.

Image: Launchpad Carols by Candlelight 2024

Launchpad’s Carols by Candlelight | 1 December

Hosted by TV presenter Matt Allwright, this uplifting evening at Reading Town Hall features Universal Voices children’s choir and the harmonious Reading Gospel Choir. Enjoy a wonderful evening of music, whilst helping to raise vital funds to prevent homelessness in Reading.

Christmas Concert by Candlelight | 5 December

Celebrate the joys of the season with this ever-popular festive concert in Caversham. Performed by the Concerts in Caversham Ensemble, this candlelit evening promises beautiful music, warm atmosphere, and a touch of Christmas magic.

PACT’s Magical Christmas at the Minster | 5 December

Join PACT at Reading Minster for a festive family celebration with local performers, classic carols and plenty of Christmas fun. Your ticket helps support PACT’s work with children and families across Reading, from fostering and adoption to family support and specialist services.

Christmas Orchestra at Reading Minster | 12 December

Set in the beautiful surroundings of Reading Minster, this concert features a 16-piece chamber orchestra performing live with full sound production and a festive lighting show. Expect a wave of nostalgia with music from beloved Christmas films like Home Alone, Love Actually, Elf and The Holiday, alongside sing-along favourites and seasonal classics. 

Come and Sing: Handel's Messiah and Saint-Saëns' Christmas Oratorio | 16 December

Join the Reading Bach Choir for a festive evening of community singing, featuring Handel’s Messiah and Saint-Saëns’ Christmas Oratorio. Whether you’re a seasoned singer or simply love Christmas music, come along and enjoy a joyful celebration of these seasonal classics.

Carol Concert with Reading Community Gospel Choir | 18 December

Now in its eighth year, the award-winning Reading Community Gospel Choir returns to Reading Minster with a live band and soulful gospel versions of your favourite Christmas carols, all in support of Refugee Support Group’s work.

Candlelight: Christmas Classics | 19 December

Hear Christmas favourites reimagined for string quartet at The Great Hall, University of Reading, under the gentle glow of candlelight. The programme ranges from The Nutcracker and Carol of the Bells to Love Is All Around, Let It Go, Last Christmas and All I Want for Christmas Is You.

Shinfield Players Charity Christmas Show | 19 December

Celebrate Christmas with the Shinfield Players with an evening of carols and festive entertainment. With profits going to charity, it’s a Christmas celebration that gives back.

Woodley Concert Band Christmas Concert | 20 December

Settle in for an evening of festive favourites as Woodley Concert Band presents its full-length Christmas Concert, packed with classic carols, popular Christmas tunes, and a few surprises along the way. There’s also an earlier Children’s Christmas Concert at 3:00pm, perfect for families. If you’ve never been to a WCB performance before, you can even claim a free ticket through their First Timers scheme!