Free Festive Things to Do in Reading

If you’re on a tighter budget this year or simply fancy a cheap day trip with the kids or night out with friends, Reading has some great events that will get you into the Christmas spirit, whilst remaining absolutely FREE! Here are our top picks for 2026.  

Snow Window Trail

From 26 November, Reading Town Centre 

Step into a winter wonderland with the Reading Snow Window Trail, featuring incredible hand-painted snow scenes by the talented Tom Baker. It’s the perfect way to add some festive fun to your winter and a great excuse to get out and about, either with family and friends or for a peaceful wander with mulled wine in hand! 

Father Christmas visits Reading 

Sunday 20 December, Broad St 

Who’s on Santa’s ‘nice’ list this year? Head to Broad Street on Sunday 20 December to find out, as Father Christmas and his trusty Elf pay Reading town centre a visit! 

Celebrate Cavmas

Friday 4 December, Caversham

Caversham pulls out all the stops for Cavmas, a festive evening packed with music, markets and plenty of Christmas magic. Head to St Martin’s Precinct for local performances, and watch out for “Reverse Santa” collecting gifts for local children’s charities!

Live Festive Music 

Weekends in December, Broad St. 

Nothing says Christmas like the sound of festive live music! Each weekend in December, enjoy performances from local musicians, choirs and bands on the stage in Reading town centre.

Festive Character Visits 

Multiple Dates, Broad St 

Meet some very special festive visitors in Reading this December! Bring the little ones along to say hello, snap a photo and soak up a bit of Christmas magic.

• Sunday 6 December – Pink Witch & Green Witch
• Saturday 12 December – Toy Sheriff & Cowgirl
• Saturday 19 December – Snow Queen & Huggable Snowman

Visit the Christmas Lights

From 14 November, Reading Town Centre

This year, Reading is lit up with a fantastically unique display, celebrating the town's attractions and famous heritage, including Reading Football Club, Banksy, Jane Austen, the Number 17 Bus and the River Thames. The beautiful lion lights, inspired by the iconic Maiwand Lion that stands proudly in Forbury Gardens, are something not to miss. 

For more ways to wrap-up your Christmas in Reading, why not check out our Festive Family-Friendly Activities?