Experience the Magic of Christmas in Leicester: Festive Fun in 2024
The festive season is here, and Leicester is glowing with Christmas cheer! Whether you’re new to the city or a seasoned student, there’s no better time to explore all that Leicester has to offer. From twinkling markets to dazzling ice rinks and unforgettable performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
NEW FOR 2024: Leicester Christmas Market on Gallowtree Gate
Get ready to explore Leicester’s brand-new Christmas Market! Running from 14 November to 29 December on Gallowtree Gate, this festive hub is the perfect place to dive into the magic of the holiday season. With its charming stalls and twinkling lights, it’s open daily from 10am to 7pm, so there’s plenty of time to soak up the festive cheer.
As you wander through the market, you’ll find yourself drawn to the unique stalls, each brimming with handmade gifts, quirky crafts, and beautiful festive decorations. It’s the kind of place where you can lose yourself for hours, hunting for thoughtful presents or discovering treasures you didn’t even know you wanted. And the food—oh, the food! The air will be filled with the rich aroma of mulled wine, hot chocolate, and freshly baked treats, all guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly winter day.
But it’s not just about shopping and snacking. The atmosphere is truly something special. With live music filling the air and the sparkle of Christmas lights all around, the market feels like stepping into a holiday movie. Whether you’re out with friends, on a festive date, or just taking a quiet stroll to unwind, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the joyful vibe.
If you’re planning a visit, bring your friends along and make an outing of it! Stroll between the stalls, sip on something warm, and snap a few photos under the glowing lights—this is one of those moments you’ll want to remember. And don’t forget to treat yourself while you’re there; sometimes, the best gifts are the ones you didn’t expect to find.
Jubilee Square Ice Rink and Wheel of Light
The ever-popular Ice Skate Leicester is making its grand return to Jubilee Square! From Thursday, 5 December 2024 to Sunday, 5 January 2025, this real ice rink transforms the heart of the city into a winter wonderland, offering a magical outdoor experience that everyone can enjoy—whether you’re a seasoned skater or a total beginner.
There’s something truly special about skating under the glow of Leicester’s festive lights. The rink, surrounded by the cheerful buzz of the season, is the perfect place to make memories that will last well beyond the holidays. You’ll find yourself laughing at every wobbly step or graceful glide, whether you’re there to show off your skills or simply have a good time with friends. It’s a guaranteed way to shake off the winter blues and take a fun break from studying.
If you’re thinking about giving it a go, here’s a tip: book your tickets online as soon as possible. The most popular slots fill up quickly, especially closer to Christmas and New Year’s. Planning ahead will make sure you don’t miss out on this iconic holiday tradition.
The magical Wheel of Light is also making its much-anticipated return to Jubilee Square! Standing an impressive 110 feet (35 meters) tall, this spectacular Ferris wheel offers breathtaking, bird’ s-eye views of Leicester’s stunning Christmas lights and festive decor.
Whether you’re a local or new to the city, there’s something magical about seeing Leicester from above, all aglow with holiday cheer. Each ride lasts about 8 to 10 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in the panoramic views, take in the festive atmosphere, and snap some incredible photos from high above the bustling square.
The wheel features 24 covered gondolas, each seating up to six people, making it perfect for a cosy outing with friends or family. For those requiring it, one of the gondolas is wheelchair-accessible, and assistance is available to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.
Tickets are £7 per person and can be purchased directly from the ticket booth on-site, making adding a spin on the Wheel of Light to your festive plans easy. Whether taking a break from skating or just passing through Jubilee Square, this ride is a must for anyone wanting to make the most of Leicester’s Christmas magic.
NEW FOR 2024: Enlightened Leicester at Abbey Park
Prepare to be dazzled by a brand-new festive experience in Leicester this year! Abbey Park will be transformed into a magical outdoor light trail as Enlightened Leicester debuts for the 2024 holiday season. Running nightly from 5 pm to 8:30 pm, this illuminated wonderland promises to be a breathtaking experience.
As you wander through the park, you’ll step into a world of light and colour, with bright, artistic installations that bring the landscape to life. Expect enchanting displays that sparkle, shimmer, and glow, creating a sensory experience like no other.
Prebooking is required, so be sure to grab your tickets in advance before your visit. The trail is sure to be popular, especially as Christmas approaches, so booking early on will guarantee you a spot to experience the magic.
Leicester’s Season of Spectacular Shows
Christmas in Leicester isn’t just about markets, lights, and ice skating—this city is also home to some incredible stage performances that will make your festive season unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan of theatre, musicals, or live performances, Leicester’s Season of Spectacular Shows has something for everyone this Christmas.
Curve Theatre
Looking for a more peaceful way to get into the Christmas spirit this year? The Candlelight Christmas Concert at Curve Theatre is the perfect escape from the usual festive chaos, offering an evening of serene music and stunning atmosphere.
Held in the soft glow of candlelight, this popular concert features the talented Ex Cathedra choir, who will perform a beautiful mix of Christmas classics, hidden gems, and brand-new seasonal music. As the choir fills the air with their stunning harmonies, you’ll be transported into a world of calm, perfect for unwinding during a hectic time of year.
Best of all, entrance is just £5 for students, making it an affordable way to enjoy a magical evening without breaking the bank. With exams and deadlines around the corner, sometimes you need a break to reset and recharge—and this concert offers the perfect way to do that.
De Montfort Hall
Let’s face it—no one can resist the magic of a traditional pantomime. From the cringy jokes that we all laugh at any way to the over-the-top dames, panto is one of those must-do experiences at Christmas, and De Montfort Hall has got you covered with this year’s production of Snow White!
Running from 13 December to 5 January, the show stars Divina Di Campo, Drag Race finalist, bringing all the glam and camp you’d expect from a panto dame. Along with the laughs, the show promises a good dose of festive cheer and some truly unforgettable moments.
Phoenix
This December, Phoenix Leicester is your ultimate destination for holiday movie magic! Starting on 30 November, they’ll be bringing you all the Christmas classics, perfect for students looking to unwind and enjoy some festive flicks. Whether you’re a fan of timeless classics, family favourites, or a little bit of holiday action, Phoenix has something to put you in the Christmas spirit.
For those who love the classics, get cosy with iconic films like It’s a Wonderful Life, White Christmas, and even the Christmas-controversy favourite, Die Hard. These films never fail to bring that warm, nostalgic feeling, and watching them on the big screen is a whole new experience
If you’re after something a little more lighthearted, Phoenix is also screening beloved family films like Elf, The Polar Express, and the always entertaining Muppet Christmas Carol. It’s the perfect way to bring a bit of Christmas cheer to your weekend (or a break from your studies).
The best part? Tickets are just £6 for students, so it’s a super affordable way to spend an evening filled with festive magic. Plus, Phoenix is only a 5-minute walk from your student accommodation, making it the perfect easy getaway for when you need a break from the books and want to get into the holiday spirit.
Enjoy Christmas in Leicester at St Georges Tower
Leicester offers an array of incredible Christmas events that will help you unwind, enjoy the season, and create lasting memories with friends. From the sparkling new Christmas Market and ice skating at Jubilee Square to amazing festive performances around the city, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay while you enjoy all the holiday fun, St George’s Tower is the perfect choice for students at both the University of Leicester and De Montfort University. Located right in the heart of the city, you’re just a short commute from both campuses and all the Christmas action.
With premium and deluxe student studios, you’ll have your own private space to unwind after a busy day exploring the city. Each studio is designed with students in mind, featuring spacious rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and fully-equipped kitchens—everything you need to feel at home while balancing your studies with the festive season.
Ready to start your new year in style? Call us now to check availability for January starters and secure your spot at St George’s Tower. Let’s make your student experience in Leicester unforgettable!
