As the festive season approaches there are a variety of events that capture the spirit of Christmas at our attractions in Test Valley in Hampshire. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are some highlights to look forward to in the lead-up to Christmas 2024:
A Nutcracker Christmas at Mottisfont
Mottisfont is hosting a “A Nutcracker Christmas.” Bringing the classic tale to life with beautifully decorated rooms with music and light effects, enjoy a frosty winter wonderland with swirling snowflakes on a Nutcracker themed family activity trail. It is a day out the whole family will enjoy from 23 November 2024 to 5 January 2025.
Hawk Conservancy Trust at Christmas
The Hawk Conservancy Trust near Andover has an array of festive events lined up and will hold its annual Christmas Market from 28 to 30 November. A festive shopping experience, featuring over 60 local businesses offering unique gifts, handcrafted items, and delicious food.
Don’t miss the enchanting evening of Christmas Carols and Owls. Sing along to Christmas carols, featuring both timeless classics and contemporary favourites, all performed under the starry night sky with live musical accompaniment. As part of this magical experience, you can watch the owls in awe as they glide gracefully through the moonlit sky, silently swooping just above your head. It’s a festive celebration you won’t want to miss from 15 to 17 December!
Father Christmas and his enchanting team of owls are also making a special stop at the trust for a delightful family event. Join the playful Evergreen the Elf in a festive adventure to help get Christmas back on track and ensure Father Christmas’s sleigh is ready for flight on the 21 and 22 December.
Although technically starting in January, the Winter Woodland Lights event is a must-visit for those who want to extend their festive celebrations. Running from 12 to 28 January 2025, this event features stunning light displays set against the backdrop of beautiful woodlands.
Christmas at Paultons Park
Enjoy the festive season with a visit to Paultons Park with enchanting decorations, twinkling lights, and fun activities. From 6 to 23 December 2024, visitors can enjoy a winter wonderland including the popular Peppa Pig World that is transformed for the holidays. Meet beloved characters like Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Reindeer, and the mischievous Billy and Belinda Elves. Don’t miss the spectacular “Santa’s Christmas Wish” show, filled with singing, dancing, and festive fun. As well as fantastic rides, festive food and a spot of Christmas shopping in The Big Toy shop.
Light Up Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens will once again host the enchanting “Light Up” event from 28 November 2024 to 1 January 2025. This year promises to be even more spectacular with new light installations, a revamped route, and live entertainment featuring fire jugglers and aerial artists. It’s a perfect way to kick off the festive season with family and friends.
Experience Christmas at Finkley Down Farm
From 30 November to 24 December 2024, Finkley Down Farm opens the gates to its Christmas Experience on weekends and in school holidays. Spend a day a Finkley collecting stamps for your Christmas Activity Passport, gingerbread decorating with Mother Christmas, a snowy adventure with cheeky elves, a visit to Father Christmas, and more. Children can also enjoy making magical reindeer food, choosing a present from the Toy Shop, and warming up with a free hot chocolate.
New for 2024, the Mini Christmas Experience runs during term time and is tailored for younger children. This event features a guided journey through snowy trees with Jingle the Elf, a visit to Father Christmas in his barn, and a special gift. Both experiences include writing letters to Father Christmas, hunting for missing elves, and all-day entry to the farm. Be sure to book early as tickets are limited and sell out quickly!
A Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm Christmas
Celebrate the festive season at Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm where “Breakfast with Santa” is back on 7, 14, 21 and 23 December, a truly memorable experience where children can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet with Santa and his elves, receive a special gift, and participate in festive activities along with meeting the farm’s friendly animals and getting a photo with Santa.
There is also Wreath making workshops and a Supper with Santa giving lots of opportunities to get in the festive spirit.
Festive fun at the Army Flying Museum
A Christmas Fair will be crammed with stalls on 23 November with a range of local stall holders selling jewellery, candles, original artwork and home furnishings. There will also be Christmas crafts to keep the little ones entertained and festive treats in the Apache Café.
On 7 December Santa will be making a flying visit, a unique opportunity to have a professional photo taken with Santa in a Scout Helicopter, children receive a Christmas gift from the Army Museum Elf and a drink and treat from the Apache Café, with a complimentary tea or filter coffee for accompanying parents. Follow the festive trail around the museum, with festive crafts and the chance to make magical reindeer food to take home for Christmas Eve.
To finish off the festive events there is a Christmas Concert by the Army Medical Services Band on 14 December.
Plan Your Visit
With so many wonderful events, Test Valley is the perfect destination to get into the Christmas spirit. Be sure to check the event websites for ticket information and additional details. Whether you’re looking for a magical light show, a festive market, or a classic Christmas story brought to life, Test Valley has it all.
Comments