From the Christmas lights switch-on and magical light trail to festive markets, live entertainment and family-friendly activities, there’s plenty to enjoy in Hinckley town centre in the run-up to Christmas.
Christmas is on its way to Hinckley, and the town centre is gearing up for a wonderful festive season filled with events, entertainment and opportunities to shop local.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, looking for unique Christmas gifts, enjoying a festive treat with friends or simply soaking up the seasonal atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy over the coming weeks.
Kick-start the festive season
The celebrations begin on Friday 20 November, when Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council hosts its Christmas Lights Switch-On and Tin Hat Fair.
From 4pm, Market Place will come alive with live entertainment, food vendors, market stalls and street entertainment, before the town centre Christmas lights are illuminated at 6.30pm. The main event finishes at 8pm, while the Tin Hat Fair continues along Regent Street until 10pm on Friday and returns from midday until 10pm on Saturday 21 November.
Visitors can also enjoy Lights in the Mead, a magical display of thousands of twinkling fairy lights in shades of green, blue and pink, illuminating the trees, pathways and bandstand at Argents Mead. The display runs every evening from 20 November until 6 January 2027, creating a beautiful backdrop for a festive stroll through the town.
Festive markets and unique Christmas gifts
If you’re looking for something a little different this Christmas, Hinckley’s festive markets offer the perfect opportunity to discover local makers, independent traders and seasonal treats.
On Saturday 21 November, the Christmas Gift Fair at Atkins Building, Lower Bond Street, runs from 10am to 4pm. Browse gifts, crafts, stocking fillers and handmade items while supporting local businesses and creative talent.
The festive fun continues on Saturday 28 November, when Concordia Theatre teams up with the Tinhatters for its Christmas Craft Fayre. Running from 10am to 4pm at Stockwell Head, the event features craft stalls, Santa, food and drinks, plus special entertainment from the cast of Dear Evan Hansen.
From 4 to 22 December, The Birdie Bunker at the Britannia Centre will host its Christmas Market, featuring local bakers, independent makers, craft vendors, homeware specialists and floral displays. Visitors can enjoy seasonal food and drinks, live performances from local brass bands and choirs, and access to attractions including mini golf, axe throwing and arcade games.
Then, on Sunday 13 December, head to Market Place for Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council’s Festive Feast and Crafts Market, running from 10am to 4pm. Enjoy street food, mulled wine, craft stalls, live Christmas music and entertainment in front of the town’s Christmas tree.
Christmas entertainment for all ages
There’s plenty happening on Hinckley’s stages, too, with a varied programme of theatre, music and seasonal entertainment.
Concordia Theatre has something for everyone, including Some Mothers Do ’Ave ’Em from 1–5 December, bringing the much-loved comedy character Frank Spencer to the stage, and the Backbeat Beatles on 11 December, celebrating the music and legacy of the Fab Four.
For a magical festive experience, ballet lovers can enjoy The Snow Queen on 13 December, performed by Ballet Theatre UK.
Meanwhile, on Friday 11 December, everyone is invited to gather around the Christmas tree in Market Place for Carols Around the Tree. Organised by Churches Together and Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, the event runs from 4.15pm to 5pm and is a lovely opportunity to join in with familiar Christmas favourites.
Throughout the season, visitors can also enjoy the St Mary's Church Christmas Tree Festival, running from 26 November to 4 December. The church will be filled with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, seasonal displays and festive entertainment, including live music, community choirs, carol services and family activities. Santa’s Grotto, face painting and Christmas gifts are among the highlights on Saturday 28 November.
Make a day of it in Hinckley
With festive events taking place across the town centre, there’s every reason to make a day of your visit. Explore the independent shops, discover new businesses, enjoy a coffee or a festive lunch, and support the local businesses that help make Hinckley special.
Shopping locally is a great way to find thoughtful gifts while helping to support the town’s independent retailers, cafés, restaurants and leisure venues.
From Christmas shopping and family activities to live entertainment and magical light displays, Hinckley has plenty to offer this festive season.
Plan your visit and discover what’s on in Hinckley.
For full event details, dates and updates, visit the Hinckley BID What's On page:
https://www.hinckleybid.co.uk/whats-on
We look forward to welcoming you into Hinckley town centre this Christmas!