NEW CHRISTMAS EVENTS IN CITY CENTRE

Christmas is going to be extra special in Peterborough this year with new events planned for Cathedral Square!

Peterborough City Council’s announced plans for new family friendly festive fun in the centre.

For the first time Cathedral Square will host its own Santa’s grotto and elf workshop in a ticketed area near Cathedral Arch, as part of the 'Once Upon a Christmas Wish' immersive event.

On the Square there will be Christmas huts selling festive food and gifts, exciting children’s rides, and a photo opportunity with the Gingerbread family nestled near the Guildhall.

Little ones can join Mrs Claus and her cheeky elf in the magical classroom, while there is also live festive entertainment every Saturday and Sunday.

The Once Upon a Christmas attractions will open from November 28 on Thursdays to Sundays, and every day on Christmas week.

Tickets are available here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/once-upon-a-christmas-wish-peterboroughs-immersive-christmas-event-tickets-1761998568149?aff=oddtdtcreator

The Cathedral Square Christmas tree arrives in the week of November 17, and the spectacular official lights switch-on will take place on the evening of November 21 with live music and performers on the big stage.

There’s more at Peterborough Cathedral with the Wonder of Christmas event and attractions on Cathedral Green, a spectacular light trail extending up to and beyond the Cathedral, including areas near the Norman Arch and other city centre locations.

A snow machine will blanket the cathedral entrance and Norman Gate, with two nutcrackers standing outside the main doors.

The event runs from  November 19 to December 4 in the evenings, with the free Christmas Trail open throughout December. 

Finally, there will also be an artisan market on December 6, on Bridge Street and Cathedral Square.

Cabinet member for Communities, Poverty and Public Health Cllr Zameer Ali helped select the 42ft tree for the city centre, from a farm in Rowington.

He said: “I was proud to select the tree for our city centre, which everyone will see on 21 November in its full glory.

“These events are something new and exciting for the city centre for 2025 and will really showcase the spirit of Christmas in a fun, family-friendly environment.”

Paul Stainton, Head of Marketing and Communications for Peterborough Cathedral, said: "Our collaborations with Peterborough City Council and Peterborough Positive will allow us to bring the city together at Christmas in a really meaningful way.

"Linking the celebrations between the Square and the Cathedral encourages visitors to seamlessly experience both, creating a stronger sense of connection at the heart of Peterborough, while also reclaiming Cathedral Square for the community."

Read more in the winter issue of ESP Magazine out on October 31 and keep an eye on the Peterborough City Council social media in the coming weeks.