Things to do in Cambridge

Christmas in Cambridge

Christmas in Cambridge. King's College Chapel in the snow

With Christmas 2020 far behind us, we look forward to enjoying what the 2021 festive season has to offer.

In our opinion there is no place quite like Cambridge in the run up to Christmas. The city comes alive with twinkly lights and the smell of mulled wine! This weekend sees the switch on of the towns Christmas lights to really get you in the Christmas spirit! Here is just a few things to see & do this festive season in Cambridge…

North Pole on Parker’s Piece

Get ready for the highlight of Cambridge in winter – the city’s very own Winter Wonderland! The North Pole at Parker’s Piece is a wonderful festive event. 2021 sees the return of their ever-popular ice rink, and some new attractions such as an ice bar and an ice slide – the longest in the UK!

The North Pole will have Christmas markets, specialty food nights and a variety of festive rides – including the opportunity to soar above the park, taking in spectacular views of Cambridge and beyond, on the Big Wheel.

Alongside the skating and fair ground rides toy can enjoy seasonal favourites such as Mulled Wine, warming cider, festive cocktail and hot chocolate.

Opens from the 19th November 2021 until the 3rd January 2022

Mill Road Winter Fair

Mill Road is one of the busiest roads in the city. Yet, for one day in December, it remains closed for Cambridge’s Winter Fair. Due to the pandemic this years fair has been replaced by Mill Road Saturdays – a series of small events held on Donkey Common and Petersfield on the one has already been held on the 9th October & 6th November with a final date on the 4th December

You can expect lots of different stalls: including food, arts and crafts, and delicious beverages, prepare to be dazzled by the performers from dancers and singers to Tai Chi & story-telling.

Mill Road Winter Fair is run by a voluntary committee and it’s a huge community event throughout Cambridge in winter. They collect money for charities and lots of businesses hold their own events. The fair also raises awareness for the opportunities in Cambridge city.

Pantomimes

Christmas in Cambridge just wouldn’t be complete with a trip to the panto. This year the Cambridge Art Theatre presents Aladdin. With singalong songs and audience participation, it’s a fun day out for all the family.

If shouting ‘He’s behind you!’ isn’t your thing then maybe a night at the ballet is instead At the Corn Exchange you can see The Nutcracker with the St Petersburg Classic Ballet 29th – 31st Dec and then Swan Lake from the 1-2 Jan 2022

Christmas Shopping

Cambridge is a Christmas shoppers delight, with the Grand Arcade, Lion Yard, Grafton Centre and independent shops offering a variety of Christmas gift options. Cambridge market also provides a whole host of different gifts, food and clothing giving you lots of ideas for any last minute present buying.

With plenty of cafes, bars, & restaurant to get you refuelled.

If you’ve sorted your Christmas shopping, then why not sit back and relax on a punting trip down the River Cam. Punting companies with provide blankets and hot water bottles to keep you extra cosy while you see the magical sights of the Cambridge Colleges.

You can experience all the above while staying at Christ’s College. We have B&B availability from the 9th – 19th December 2021 – book your room now!

Other things to do in Cambridge

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