Wimbledon is gearing up for a Christmas season packed with community spirit and seasonal magic, with this year’s festivities promising to be bigger and better than ever. From the return of the popular ice rink in Wimbledon Quarter to the local artisan markets, there’s plenty for visitors to look forward to. “Our theme this year is, ‘We’ve got Christmas all wrapped up in Wimbledon’,” says Craig Hurring. “That is at the heart of the programme. People can come and do all their shopping, head to a show or a film, sip mulled wine in the market and soak up the atmosphere.”

Winterfest marks the official start of the season on 29 to 30 November, and will feature a live broadcast from Riverside Radio and a community stage showcasing local choirs, dancers, and musicians on the Saturday. “It’s a real celebration of community and brings together many of the best things about Wimbledon,” adds Craig. The Sunday will have a focus on Christmas crafting to create decorations and gifts. There will also be selfie spots for memorable photo ops. Expect plenty of surprises:  previous years have seen the likes of Christmas puddings on roller skates! As the event will take place on The Piazza and inside Wimbledon Quarter, the event will be weatherproof.

Lights, markets & mulled wine

The town centre will be getting its Christmas sparkle on from late November. “We will have our beautiful 25ft Christmas tree outside the station, as well as a tree in The Piazza and several in Wimbledon Quarter. Plus there will be more decorations than ever around town this year and festive projections on buildings, which are always fun.

The Christmas markets also make a welcome return to The Piazza, taking place for three successive weeks, from Thursday to Sunday, starting on 27th November. The markets will also open until 7pm on Thursdays and Fridays so people can pop along after work. Says Craig: “It’s lovely to be able to offer something on weekdays too for those who work here who wouldn’t be in Wimbledon at the weekends. It will be a great opportunity to enjoy the festive atmosphere and get your shopping done. There will be a range of small businesses, with lots of lovely gifts to buy from local craftspeople.”

Skate whatever the weather

The ever-popular ice rink makes its return for a third consecutive year, open from 22 November to 4 January. Located indoors in Wimbledon Quarter, visitors can skate no matter what the weather is doing. Children’s skating aids are available, and the rink is partnering with St George’s Hospital’s Time for a Change Children’s Appeal, so skaters can enjoy themselves while giving back.

See Santa

For the first time in several years, the town welcomes back a Santa’s Grotto at Wimbledon Quarter, opening on 29 November and running right up to Christmas Eve. “This is something we’ve wanted in Wimbledon Town Centre for a while,” Craig explained. “It’s great for local families and a very welcome addition to our Christmas calendar.”

Festive Feasting

Many of Wimbledon’s restaurants are also joining in the festive spirit. From traditional Christmas menus at 601 Queen’s Road and Roxie Steak to internationally inspired festive twists at Tampopo and Bombay Delight, there’s a flavour for every palate. The Alexandra will again open its doors on Christmas Day for those who would otherwise be alone, a tradition that’s become nationally recognised for its community impact.

Theatre & Cinema

Panto lovers are in for a treat with Robin Hood at the New Wimbledon Theatre with street dance sensations Ashley Banjo and Diversity, joined by comedian and magician Pete Firman. Much-loved children’s theatre Polka, meanwhile, will present The Firework-Maker’s Daughter, a brand-new production directed by Lee Lyford, based on the award-winning book by Philip Pullman. For very young audiences, there will also be The Snowflake, based on the Christmas story by Benji Davies.

For cinema-goers, the recently refurbished Curzon will be screening a wide range of films to be enjoyed in plush new seating, and the Odeon will feature all the latest blockbusters.

Tick off your shopping

Retailers across Wimbledon Quarter are ready for the season. Elys department store is “going crackers” with festive décor, and new shops like Søstrene Grene, and long-cherished favourites like Neptune are perfect for unique home gifts.

Craig adds that the town at Christmas is perfect for locals and visitors alike: “It’s one of London’s most accessible town centres with easy transport links – tube, train, tram, and bus. We’re also a one-stop shop. You can eat, shop, have fun, and enjoy entertainment all in one place.”

For the local community, it’s a chance to rediscover what’s on their doorstep. “We’ve planned lots of things that don’t cost a penny,” Craig added, “like the Winterfest shows, Christmas performers, and festive photo opportunities throughout the town. There’s also a host of new activities and shops and restaurants to discover, alongside much-loved established favourites.”

“Whether you’re visiting Santa with littles ones, trying your skills at ice skating, or dining out with friends and family, Wimbledon is the perfect place to celebrate, connect, and create some festive memories.”

What’s on this Christmas

Elys Christmas Shopping Party

7 November

Polka Theatre

The Firework Maker’s Daughter

15 November – 18 January

The Snowflake

29 November – 25 January

Ice Skating at Wimbledon Quarter

22 November – 4 January

Love Wimbledon Christmas Market on The Piazza

Thursday to Sunday,
27 November – 14 December

Winterfest

29 & 30 November
Wimbledon Quarter & The Piazza

Santa’s Grotto

29 November – 24 December
Wimbledon Quarter

New Wimbledon Theatre Performances

A Christmas Carol

1 – 6 December

Santa’s North Pole Adventure

11 – 24 December

Robin Hood Pantomime

6 December – 4 January

Royal Ballet’s Nutcracker Live Stream

10 December
Curzon & Odeon Cinemas

Children’s Craft & Book Club

13 December

Wimbledon Library

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