Festive lights, magical moments, markets, music and memories – Christmas starts here in Lichfield District.
Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, planning a family day out, or looking for seasonal food and drink, there’s something special waiting for you this winter. Explore our packed programme of events, discover local Christmas markets and enjoy the best of the season right on your doorstep.
Whats on this Christmas
There’s something festive happening across Lichfield District for every age, tradition and Christmas wish. From magical light switch-ons and bustling artisan markets, to pantomime laughter and candlelit carols, the season is packed with moments to make memories.
Kick off the celebrations in the city centre as Market Square comes alive for the Lichfield Christmas Lights Switch-On – with live entertainment, performers and the big countdown to illuminate the streets. A short stroll away, the Christmas Victorian Market Weekend fills the city with more than 100 stalls offering handmade gifts, festive food and local crafts.
For family fun, head to the Lichfield Garrick Pantomime for songs, silliness and seasonal magic. And if a more traditional celebration is calling, enjoy the beauty of carols and Christmas services at Lichfield Cathedral, where candlelight, music and history create a truly unforgettable festive atmosphere.
Shop Local Gifts
Support local and discover gifts you won’t find anywhere else.
Key shopping events:
- Lichfield Victorian Markets (4th – 7th December 2025)
- Weekly markets in Market Square – every weekend
- Pop-up craft markets and makers fairs
- Late night shopping in the city centre
City Centre & Independent Shopping
Warm cafes, family-run gift shops, bookshops, florists, boutiques and specialist stores — all wrapped up with Christmas charm.
Festive Food & Drink
From mulled wine to roast dinners to festive afternoon teas, Lichfield is full of seasonal treats.
- Bookable restaurant menus
- Christmas puddings, cakes & bakery items
- Local pubs serving winter warmers
- Hot chocolate stops & cosy cafes
- Street food + festive market snacks
Featured festive dining experiences could include:
✓ The Boat Inn Christmas tasting menu
✓ Lichfield pubs with fires
✓ Independent cafes doing festive specials
✓ Brunch restaurants offering Christmas dishes
Top tip: venues fill up fast book early! Find place to eat and drink
Lights and displays
The countdown to Christmas begins as our streets light up for a series of spectacular Christmas Lights Switch-Ons across the district.
Light Switch Ons
- Lichfield City Centre – Sunday 23rd November
- Burntwood, Swan Island – Sunday 23rd November
- Boney Hay – Monday 24th November
- Sankey’s Corner, Burntwood – Saturday 29th November
The Robin’s Reward Light Show – Lichfield Cathedral
From Monday 15 to Sunday 21 December, the Cathedral Close will be transformed into a glowing winter spectacle as acclaimed animation team Illuminos brings The Robin’s Reward to life through light and storytelling.
Book tickets here
Illuminated Arboretum – National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas
From Friday 5 to Monday 22 December, wander through an immersive landscape of colour, light and sound telling extraordinary stories of remembrance and hope.
Book your tickets
Best Festive Photo Spots
Tag your pictures with #ChristmasInLichfield for a chance to be featured!
- Market Square
- Lichfield Cathedral at night
- The lights reflecting on Minster Pool
- Festive windows in the Three Spires
- Snow (if we’re lucky!) on Dam Street & The Close
Give Back This Christmas
Christmas is also about kindness and community. You can support by:
- Donating to a local charity or community group
- Helping food banks with festive donations
- Contributing to winter warm clothing drives
- Volunteering your time at local events
- Attending community fundraisers and concerts
Travel and Transport
Make your visit easy this festive season with a range of travel options and special winter parking offers.
- Lichfield city centre is compact and walkable
- Two train stations: Lichfield City & Lichfield Trent Valley
- Bus and on-demand services across the district
- Most major venues and event locations are step-free and accessible
🚌 Try LinkUp: On-demand, affordable local travel
Don’t want to drive? The LinkUp bus can pick you up and drop you off anywhere in the service area.
✨ First ride FREE with code: FREERIDE
📱 Book via the LinkUp app
🕒 Runs Monday–Saturday, covering Lichfield, Burntwood & surrounding villages
💷 Affordable fares | accessible vehicles | ideal for festive trips
🎄 Christmas Parking Offers
To make it easier (and cheaper!) to enjoy the festive season:
⭐ Free evening parking after 6pm in all Lichfield city centre council-run car parks
Starting Friday 24 November — every day through Christmas
⭐ Free weekend parking at Friary Multi-Storey
Every Saturday & Sunday in the lead-up to Christmas from Saturday 29 November
Sign up to our e-newsletters to find out more about news and events.