Winter Xmas & New Year in Norwich
As winter settles over Norfolk, Norwich transforms into a festive wonderland of lights, music, and celebration. From glittering Christmas markets beneath the city’s medieval skyline to lively New Year’s events that fill the streets with cheer, the city offers something for everyone during the most magical time of the year.
Shop local gifts, glide across ice beneath twinkling lights, and celebrate the arrival of the New Year in true Norwich style, the city captures the very best of the season.
Why Visit Norwich in Winter?
Norwich in Winter is full of charm and festive spirit. As the crowds quieten, the city’s cobbled streets and medieval architecture take on a magical glow beneath thousands of twinkling lights.
The famous Tunnel of Light returns each year, filling the city centre with colour and sparkle, while the historic Royal Arcade and Norwich Lanes brim with independent shops, perfect for finding thoughtful Christmas gifts.
From carol concerts in the stunning Norwich Cathedral to warming drinks in cosy cafes, the city offers a blend of culture, history and festive fun.
Peaceful, picturesque and full of seasonal surprises, Norwich is the perfect winter escape before retreating to the comfort of your Herbert Woods cottage.
Christmas Lights Ceremony
The city of Norwich will shine bright on Thursday 20th November 2025, when the annual festive Lights Switch-On fills the streets with music, colour and Christmas cheer.
This free event marks the start of the city’s festive season, bringing together live entertainment, special guests, and the magical moment when thousands of lights illuminate Norwich’s historic centre. It’s a wonderful way to kick off the Christmas celebrations and experience the city at its most enchanting.
Xmas Fayres & Markets
The Goat Shed: The Christmas Shed
Goat Shed Farm Shop & Kitchen, Colton Road, Honingham – NR9 5DJ
The Goat Shed in Honingham brings back its Christmas Shed for 2025, running from 24th October to 24th December.
This seasonal pop-up fills the upstairs space of the farm shop with a wide range of festive gifts, decorations, homeware and local products, making it a great place to start your Christmas shopping. The market is open daily, and the upstairs area is fully accessible via lift. It’s a relaxed and welcoming spot to browse for presents and seasonal treats just outside Norwich.
Open daily: 8pm – 5pm.
Store Folk Christmas Market at Jarrolds
1-11 London St, Norwich – NR2 1JF
Set within the iconic department store in the heart of Norwich, The Jarrolds Christmas market runs from 3rd November to 28th December 2025 on the 2nd floor.
Shop from an ever-changing roster of festive pop-ups featuring handmade gifts, seasonal décor and Norfolk-sourced treats. Entry is free and with the store’s cades, food hall and central location, it’s an easy and convenient stop during your festive shopping trip.
Opening Times:
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 9:30am – 5pm
- Thursday: 9:30am – 5:30pm
- Saturday: 9:30am – 6pm
- Sunday: 10:30am – 4:30pm
Jabbawocky Crafts Christmas Market at The Forum
Millennium Plain, Norwich – NR2 1TF
The Jabbawocky Crafts Christmas arrives at The Forum, Norwich, over the weekend of 29th- 30th November from 10am to 4pm each day.
This festive market features around 50 local makers offering a wide range of unique craft items, from handmade jewellery and clothing to hand-poured candles and artisan ceramics. Entry is free, making it a great stop for early Christmas gift shopping in a central location.
Open daily: 10am – 5pm
Fierce Babe Christmas Market
The Assembly House, Theatre St, Norwich – NR2 1RQ
The Fierce Babe Christmas Market returns for 2025 on Sunday 7th December running from 11am to 4pm.
This vibrant, inclusive market brings together 25 independent makers offering handmade jewellery, slow -fashion pieces, art, homewares and unique created with care. Entry is free, making it a great place to discover something special while supporting talented local creators in the lead-up to Christmas.
ADD OPEN TIMES!
Holkham Christmas Market
Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-day, Norfolk – NR23 1AB
The Holkham Christmas Market brings together more than 60 independent producers offering a wide mix of festive food, drink, crafts and gifts.
Visitors can browse seasonal treats, handmade decorations, artisan spirits, jewellery and plenty of locally made goods. With live music, street food stalls and a warm festive atmosphere, it’s an ideal place to pick up Christmas presents and enjoy a relaxed seasonal day out. A small parking fee applies but entry to the market is free.
Opening Times: 12th, 13th and 14th of December 2025: 10am-4pm
Traditional Family Pantomime & Theatre
Cinderella @ Norwich Theatre
Theatre St, Norwich NR2 1RL – Buy tickets here
- Dates: 6th December – 4th January 2026
Join the festive fun at Cinderella, running from 6th December 2025 to 4th January 2026. This beloved pantomime features the classic tale of Cinderella’s journey from rags to royal glitter, with her merry friend Button, a magical Fairy Godmother, and plenty of baddies to boo and hiss.
Expect singing, dancing and plenty of cheeky pantomime fun, a perfect treat for families, friends, and anyone looking for a festive night out.
The Cat In The Hat @ Norwich Theatre
Theatre St, Norwich NR2 1RL – Buy tickets here
- Dates: 11th December – 21st December 2025
Running from 11th December to 21st December, The Cat in the Hat transforms the stage into a lively and imaginative world inspired by Dr Seuss’ classic tale. Tickets start from £15, with child tickets from £13.
Designed for children aged 3 and up, this show invites the whole family to laugh, sing and join in the fun as the mischievous Cat turns a rainy afternoon into a wild adventure.
My First Panto: Rapunzel 2025 @ The Garage
14 Chapel Fld N, Norwich – NR2 1NY – Buy tickets here
- Dates: 7th December 2025 – 28th December 2025
Head to The Garage in Norwich for My First Panto: Rapunzel, running from 7 – 28 December 2025.
This lively, hour-long family show is designed for children up to age 7 and invites audiences to join Rapunzel and her flurry of friends in a colourful, interactive adventure.
Adult Pantomime, Theatre & Comedy
The WizHard of Oz! @ Norwich Puppet Theatre
St James Ct, Whitefriars, Norwich – NR3 1TN – Buy tickets here
- Dates: 8th, 9th, 10th and 22nd of January 2026
Get ready for a cheeky twist on a classic tale with The WizHard of Oz! at Norwich Puppet Theatre.
With performances beginning on Thursday 8th January 2026, this 18+ show takes the story of Dorothy’s journey through Oz into hilariously adult territory. Tickets are priced at £18.
One-Eyed Willy… @ The Maddermarket Theatre
The Maddermarket Theatre, St John’s Alley, Norwich – NR2 1DR – Buy tickets here
- Dates: 7th January – 17th January 2026
Set sail on a wild and wicked adventure with One-Eyed Willy & the Quest for the Big Chest! Running at the Maddermarket Theatre from 7th to 17th January 2026.
This raucous, 18+ pantomime promises pirate-themed mayhem, cheeky humour and audience interaction, expect big laughs, bold characters and a night that’s anything but ordinary. Tickets cost £22.
Family Xmas Party events
Family Christmas Party @ Holiday Inn North
Cromer Road, Norwich – NR6 6JA – Buy tickets here
The Holiday Inn is hosting its Family Christmas Party on Sunday 21st December, offering a festive and relaxed celebration perfect for all ages. Guests can enjoy a seasonal menu crafted with a range of options to suit different tastes, while children are kept entertained with fun games throughout the event.
Prices start from £20.00 per adult and £15.00 per child aged 3–12, with under-3s eating free. It’s a great choice for families looking to enjoy a warm, welcoming Christmas get-together.
Adult Xmas Party events
Shared Office Christmas party at Assembly House
The Assembly House, Theatre Street – NR2 1RQ – Book here
Bring the team, friends or both to The Assembly House for a festive party night that’s got all the atmosphere with none of the fuss. For £55 per person, guests enjoy a glass of prosecco on arrival, a three-course festive dinner and a lively disco in one of Norwich’s most elegant Georgian rooms.
The evenings run from 7pm (7:30pm dinner) until 11:30pm, with party nights scheduled on Friday 28th November, 5th December, 12th December and 20th December. The shared party format creates a brilliant atmosphere, making it a fantastic option for groups wanting a memorable Christmas night out without the cost of private hire.
Book a Norfolk Winter Getaway with Herbert Woods
With sparkling markets, magical pantomimes, festive food and a city glowing with Christmas spirit, winter is one of the most atmospheric times to experience Norwich. From peaceful riverside walks to lively seasonal events, the city offers the perfect balance of relaxation and celebration.
Make your winter break even more memorable by booking a boating holiday with Herbert Woods. Our warm, comfortable boats offer a cosy retreat after a day of exploring, giving you the freedom to enjoy the quieter waterways, stunning winter scenery and the charm of the broads at your own pace.