14th November 2025 - 3rd January 2026
Wrap up warm and head out after-dark to one of many colourful Christmas light events in South East England. Wander through dazzling light tunnels and colourful woodlands, marvel at exquisitely dressed Christmas trees and bespoke light installations, be amazed by animated light projections and stunning lantern festivals, all brightening up the long winter nights. These enchanting displays will ignite your holiday spirit, bring festive cheer and are a fantastic way to celebrate this special time of the year.
Why not catch up with family and friends at one of the free local festive light-switch on's that will be gracing our towns and villages in the lead up to Christmas Day. With twinkling fairy lights, tasty treats, Christmas carols and late-night shopping, these events are a great excuse to get together and start the festive season as you mean to go on.
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Our featured illuminations showcase some of the best festive lights trail throughout South East England in starting date order. Don't forget to scroll to the bottom of the page to find many more across the destination and to explore the seasonal light switch-on events.
Take a look below for a full list of Christmas Light Trails and illumination events happening across South East England this winter, with many starting in early November and running until January 2026, giving you plenty of time to head out and enjoy a sparkling-Christmas whether you live here, are on holiday or visiting friends and family over the festive season.
Number of results: 40
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Christmas
Ramsgate
Enjoy some Christmas Illuminations with a difference at the Ramsgate Royal Harbour. Pop along and enjoy the festive lights dressed on many of the boats in the harbour during December, and why not stop for dinner at one of the harbour restaurants and…
Christmas
Maidstone
Christmas Lights at Leeds Castle Returns With New Breathtaking Water Fountains Show
This year, visitors will be treated to an exhilarating new highlight; a breathtaking Water Fountains Show that promises to dazzle audiences with its stunning…
Christmas
Haywards Heath
Sussex’s award-winning light trail is reimagined for 2025. A new trail full of exclusive installations, handcrafted lanterns, and immersive moments is accompanied by new experiences that promise more festive fun than ever! Just 30 minutes from…
Childrens Events
Chipping Norton
✨ Illuminated Evenings return to Fairytale Farm! ✨
From 4th October – 16th November 2025, join us as dusk falls and the farm is transformed into a dazzling wonderland of light and colour.
This year promises even more sparkle, with new Illuminated…
Christmas
Dover
Head along to Pencester Gardens in Dover for the annual Winter Light Up Dover event on Saturday, 6th December. This festival brings light to the winter months and offers an enchanting range of activities for visitors and residents to enjoy.
Christmas
Ramsgate
Visit Ramsgate in Kent this Christmas and New Year, and enjoy a series of festive events to bring brightness to the winter months, including the Light Up Ramsgate six-week trail and the fantastic New Year's Eve Lantern Parade.
Christmas
Windsor
Windsor will sparkle to life with its ever popular Christmas Lights switch-on taking place in front of the wonderful Windsor Castle.
Christmas
Havant
Step inside Stansted House this Christmas and explore the beautiful Edwardian Mansion after it has been decorated for the Festive season.
Theatre
Southampton
Experience the Enchantment of Christmas - The Candlelight Concert in an Unforgettable Festive Musical Celebration presented by Xperience Live
Prepare to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as our incredible singers and live band deliver a fresh…
Music
Southampton
Step Into Christmas for the most magical show of the year. This Christmas concert feel good show, brings all the magic of the season to life, with all you favourite songs, you will know and love! So Step Into Christmas! as we give you something…
Christmas
Winchester
Fun for all the family, Winchester's popular Winter Lantern Parade event returns, and everyone is welcome to join in.
The annual lantern parade returns to Winchester Cathedral, and this year the theme is Light, Bright and Sparkling from Jane…
Free Event
Aldershot
Step into a winter wonderland at Aldershot Christmas Cracker!
Step into a winter wonderland at Aldershot Christmas Cracker, taking place from noon to 5.30pm on Saturday 15 November.
The town centre will be bursting with seasonal cheer, offering a…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Lock Ln, Maidstone
A festive extravaganza awaits you at our Christmas Experience! Get ready to say “Ho Ho Ho!” as you embark on a magical journey. The highlight of your visit will be meeting Father Christmas himself in his enchanting grotto. Little ones will be…
Christmas
Portsmouth, Southsea and Cosham
The countdown for a magical Christmas in Portsmouth begins with a dazzling party.
Christmas
Aylesbury
This Christmas, join Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild and his beloved dog Poupon on an enchanting trans-European tour. Each stop along the route brings a different city to life, showcasing cultural heritage, seasonal customs, and links to Waddesdon's…
Christmas
Portsmouth
Southsea Castle hosts Christmas illuminations and festive fun for all the family.
Childrens Events
Brighton
Far away, beyond the snow, and nestled in a perfect nook you’ll find a town called Christmas...
Clementine dreams of a place where gingerbread houses glow under twinkling fairy-lights, and chocolate coins are currency. Where the streets are filled…
Music
Portsmouth
Get ready to Step into Christmas for the most magical, feel-good show of the year!
Christmas
Edenbridge
Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Hever Castle this Christmas!
From 21 November 2025 – 2 January 2026, Hever Castle & Gardens is bringing the magic of Oz to life.
Begin your journey in Dorothy's Kansas farmhouse before being swept along the yellow…
Music
Bexhill-on Sea
Hastings Sinfonia and friends are delighted to present their annual Christmas Concert of festive music and dance that features the singers of St Richard's Catholic College choir and dancers of East Sussex School of Performing Arts.
Expect…
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