What's on in Reading this month

The nights are darker, the jumpers are fluffier, and Reading is officially sparkling. December brings festive markets, magical trails, big seasonal shows and plenty of family fun — plus a sprinkling of non-Christmas events for when you need a break from the baubles. As ever, this is just the start: head to whatsonreading.com for so much more!

Christmas in Reading Town Centre

Reading town centre is fully festive this December, with shimmering lights, seasonal entertainment and plenty to discover between your shopping stops. Wander the Snow Window Trail, enjoy live music on Broad Street every weekend, or bump into the joyful Candy Cane Stilt Walkers as they spread cheer on early-December afternoons. And keep your eyes peeled for festive character visits — you never know who you might meet.

Christmas Markets

If December had a soundtrack, it would be the hum of Christmas markets filling the town. Broad Street Christmas Market runs right through to January with mulled drinks, gifts and festive treats, while neighbourhood favourites like the Caversham Christmas Market (complete with real reindeer) and Rising Sun Christmas Art Market offer cosy, creative ways to shop small. For something truly special, don’t miss Jelly’s Christmas Art Shop on 14 December — a treasure trove of handmade pieces from local artists.

Christmas Shows in Reading

It’s a bumper year for festive theatre. Beauty and the Beast brings panto magic to The Hexagon all month long, while Reading Rep’s enchanting A Christmas Carol offers a heart-warming seasonal escape. For those after something merrier and sillier, the Just the Tonic Christmas Specials deliver a light-hearted night out.

Christmas Concerts & Live Music

Music fills the town throughout December, from the joyful performances on Broad Street’s weekend stage to candlelit concerts in some of Reading’s most atmospheric venues. Highlights include the uplifting Smart Works Carol Concert on 8 December, and The Snowman – Live on 20 December is pure magic.

Family-Friendly Experiences

Festive fun is everywhere this month. Winter Wonderland continues with rides, an ice rink and Santa’s Grotto, while Illuminate Reading transforms the Abbey Ruins into a glowing, wintry wander. Add in the town centre’s live entertainment and the charming Snow Window Trail, and you’ve got plenty to keep all ages feeling merry.

Where to Find Santa in Reading

Father Christmas is making several Reading stop-offs this December. You can meet him at Broad Street Mall, where little ones can enjoy a magical visit and receive a festive gift; he’ll also be greeting shoppers on Broad Street on 21 December, spreading cheer before the big night. And for a festive treat with a twist, Shinfield Garden Centre’s Paws & Claus lets families, dogs included, join Santa for a cosy breakfast and a Christmas photo moment.

Non-Christmas Things to Do This December

Prefer your December a little less tinsel-topped? You’ll still find plenty happening across Reading, from gigs and comedy nights to art events and local theatre. Keep an eye on whatsonreading.com for all the winter-friendly, non-festive fun to round out your month.