About

Step Back in Time for a Traditional Victorian Christmas

Experience the magic of a bygone era at Wantage Dickensian Night, a much-loved festive celebration that transforms the historic Market Place into a Christmas scene inspired by the world of Charles Dickens. Taking place on Friday 4 December 2026, this family-friendly event brings together festive entertainment, traditional market stalls, seasonal treats and community celebrations in the heart of Wantage.

Running from 4pm to 9pm, the event offers the perfect opportunity to embrace the Christmas spirit, enjoy local festivities and discover the charm of one of Oxfordshire's most popular seasonal traditions.

Festive Entertainment and Seasonal Cheer

Visitors can wander through the town centre soaking up the festive atmosphere while enjoying a variety of Christmas-themed activities, live performances and community events.

Highlights include:

• Traditional Christmas stalls and festive shopping
• Seasonal food and drink
• Family-friendly entertainment
• Christmas music and live performances
• Festive displays and decorations
• Community celebrations throughout the evening
• Discover Festive Fun at the Parish Church

The Parish Church plays a key role in the evening's celebrations, featuring festive singing performances from local schoolchildren alongside a selection of seasonal stalls and traditional Christmas favourites.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Mulled wine and mince pies
• Hot chocolate
• Christmas craft stalls
• Gift and bric-a-brac stalls
• The popular chocolate tombola
• A candle-lit nativity display
• Quiet reflection spaces

The church stalls open from 6pm to 9pm, with festive performances beginning earlier in the evening.

Visit Father Christmas at the Museum

The evening's festivities continue at the local museum, where families can enjoy live music, festive refreshments, Christmas shopping and a special visit from Father Christmas.

The museum programme includes:

• Live music performances
• Market stalls
• Mulled wine, cakes and festive refreshments
• Christmas gifts and stocking fillers
• Father Christmas visits (advance booking required)

The museum remains open throughout the event, making it an ideal stop on your Dickensian Night adventure.

Why Visit?

• Traditional Victorian-inspired Christmas celebration
• Festive markets and seasonal shopping
• Family-friendly entertainment
• Christmas music and performances
• Mulled wine, mince pies and festive treats
• Visit Father Christmas
• Historic Oxfordshire setting
• One of Wantage's most popular festive events