The Cheltenham Trust announces a packed programme of festive events this Christmas

The most magical time of year is fast-approaching, and this season The Cheltenham Trust has curated a sleigh-load of special festive events for everyone to enjoy.

From a spectacular Christmas Lights Switch On to delicious festive feasts, here are five top highlights from their packed programme that you won’t want to miss!

1. Spectacular Christmas Lights Switch On at Pittville Pump Room

The Cheltenham Trust has confirmed that its hugely popular Christmas Lights Switch On event will return to the magnificent Pittville Pump Room again this year on Saturday 23^rd November. This fun-filled, free family event has become a highlight for many locals and marks the start of the festive season across the town.

From 11am – 6pm on Saturday 23^rd November, a Christmas Artisan Market will be open inside the breathtaking main hall of Pittville Pump Room, featuring festive stalls brimming with unique gifts, jewellery, homewares and seasonal produce. The market will also be open from 11am – 6pm on Sunday 24^th November, accompanied by carol singers and choirs, adding to the festive ambience. Local makers and sellers are invited to host their own stall at the marketplace for just £75 for one day or £120 for both, details and booking for the remining few stalls available can be found at Cheltenham Town Hall website.

Throughout the afternoon there will be a variety of entertainment taking place outside Pittville Pump Room, including live music from Tommy Lewis (lead singer of Tommy and the Fuse – one of the most in-demand event bands in the south west) and free children’s entertainment from expert family entertainers, Party Peeps, who are well-known for delighting families across the region (and beyond) with their lively discos, unique events and memorable parties.

From 2.30pm – 5pm, younger visitors have the opportunity to meet the man himself – Santa Claus – along with everyone’s favourite friendly snowman – Olaf – and two very special princesses!

At 5.30pm, the Mayor of Cheltenham – accompanied by Santa, Olaf and the princesses (of course!) – will countdown to the big Christmas lights switch on and Pittville Pump Room will be aglow with hundreds of magical festive lights. 

This is a free community event, timings and details can be found at Cheltenham Trust website.

2. Enjoy a night of festive dining and live entertainment in stunning surroundings

For those looking for a special way to celebrate with friends, family or colleagues this festive season, look no further than the Jingle Bell Banquets at Pittville Pump Room. Enjoy drinks, sophisticated dining and lively entertainment, set against the backdrop of Pittville Pump Room’s ornate main hall and elegant covered outdoor colonnade, beautifully adorned with festive decorations, cosy blankets and soft lighting.

Jingle Bells Banquets will take place on Friday 29^th November, Thursday 19^th December and Friday 20^th December. Tickets cost £58 per person (adults only) and include a welcome drink on arrival and a festive three course set menu dinner, followed by a live DJ and disco plus a fun, festive-themed photo booth! Book a table or a private hire of the venue.

3. Dance the night away at a Christmas Silent Disco

On Friday 29^th November, The Cheltenham Trust will host a special Christmas Silent Disco at the magnificent Cheltenham Town Hall. Hit the dancefloor and show off your moves with three different music channels to choose from on your own party headphones, carefully curated by a live DJ.

VIP tickets are available and include early access via a dedicated entrance, complimentary cloakroom use, a welcome drink on arrival, a goodie bag and glow wand to get the party started!

Tickets cost £15 (adults only).

4. Gather friends and family for a special festive lunch

On Thursday 12^th and 19^th December, The Cheltenham Trust is hosting a festive Christmas lunch, accompanied by seasonal live music from the talented pianist, Francis Sanville, in the splendid surroundings of the Grade I Listed Pittville Pump Room.

Get into the spirit as festive swing and jazz classics, as well as one or two popular Christmas tunes and carols, are expertly played on a Steinway piano, while diners enjoy a delicious Christmas roast lunch and decadent dessert, followed by tea and coffee.

Tickets cost £36 and include a two-course set lunch menu, tea and coffee and live piano music, and can be booked as groups, individuals, or private hire of the venue.

5. Make dreams come true with a magical Princess Afternoon Tea

The Cheltenham Trust is hosting the perfect opportunity to create special Christmas memories with a magical Princess Afternoon Tea at Pittville Pump Room on Sunday 22^nd December.

Younger visitors and their grown-ups are encouraged to put on their favourite princess outfit, superhero gear or festive finery and enjoy a delightful traditional afternoon tea of festive sandwiches and sweet treats, followed by the chance to meet the princesses and join in with songs, stories, party games and a special sprinkle of Christmas magic in the beautifully decorated main hall at Pittville Pump Room.

Tickets are selling fast and cost £29.50 for adults and £19.50 for children and include afternoon tea and live entertainment from the princesses.

To see the full programme of festive events and shows hosted by The Cheltenham Trust, including live comedy from some of the UK’s best comedians, crafty parties at The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum, the Music of Harry Potter performed by a full live orchestra, The Snowman with live orchestra and much more, visit Cheltenham Trust website.