Feel the Christmas magic in the city centre
The city centre is lighting up this festive season with a programme of events designed to support our local businesses and rediscover our highstreets.
We’re encouraging people to skip the online shopping and rediscover the joy of shopping in person. Why not make a day of it? Wrap up warm, browse festive windows, stop for lunch, and find thoughtful gifts, every purchase supports independent businesses.
In Commercial Road, we have the Portsmouth Christmas Market for you to enjoy. If you want to get really festive, you can have a go at ice skating on a real ice rink in Guildhall Square, where you can skate under the glittering lights come rain or shine, or go and see Snow White at the the Theatre Royal in Guildhall Walk!
Christmas Lights Switch On Party
Join us to start the countdown to Christmas in Portsmouth with our magical Christmas lights switch on party on Saturday 22 November, from 4 – 6pm. Join in the festive fun with live music, dazzling lights, and special guests including the one and only Father Christmas! The event will be hosted by legendary regional radio presenter Mark Collins from Nation Radio.
Special guests including the stars from the Theatre Royal’s panto Snow White and a special appearance from Shaun Williamson (Barry from Eastenders) from the Kings Theatre’s panto, Aladdin.
Portsmouth Christmas Market
- Commercial Road, City Centre
- Saturday 22 November – Tuesday 30 December
Get your festive fix at the Portsmouth Christmas market on Commercial Road. Tuck into tasty German sausages, sip on glühwein, and browse for tree decorations and stocking fillers. You could make a day of it – shop, snack, and unwind in one of the city centre’s cosy independent eateries. And if you visit on a Thursday, Friday or Saturday, you’ll find even more to love, with stalls selling fresh produce, unique gifts, seasonal goodies, and plenty of Christmas magic!
