We have narrowed down the best and most festive events across Essex this Christmas so you don’t have to! Take a look at the best local festive events, markets and festivities near you.

The Best Christmas Events in Essex

Enlightened Highlands Estate

Highlands Estate is once again hosting it’s Enlightened light trail this festive season. From 29th November through to 4th January you can book tickets to explore the light trail through Highlands park. This year they they are boasting more lights and new installations never seen before.

Source: Highlands Estate

Havering Christmas Land

Head to Harrow Lodge Park in Hornchurch for Havering Christmas Land being held from 27th November-1st January from 4:30pm daily. Explore a light trail, Christmas food stalls, fair rides and Santa’s Grotto.

Colne Valley Railway

Colne Valley Railway traditional steam train is decked out in all of its festive glory for the festive period. You can book tickets for children to board the train and see Santa in his new parlor. You can also book twilight evening events to see the railway all lit up with festive experiences such as train rides, mulled wine and a festive buffet.

Source: Colne Valley Railway

Epping Ongar Railway

Head on board the Epping Ongar Railway for their Christmas special Santa trains and have the opportunity to meet Santa on board the train. Alternatively book the Epping Ongar Light Fantastic and board the lit up train and watch the lights as you pass them by on board the train.

Source: Visit Essex

Barleylands Christmas

Barleylands is hosting Barleylands Christmas and you can book tickets to see Santa in the barn and in the grotto. You can also book  the twilight evening to see the show and light show too.

Source: Barleylands

Audley End Christmas Special

Audley End Miniature Railway are hosting their annual Christmas special 21st November-24th December. Go along for a festive train ride complete with Santa, reindeer, elves and more!

RHS Glow at Hyde Hall Chelmsford

Explore Hyde Hall’s beautiful gardens and the festive light trail they have set up from 22nd November-28th December. The lights are set up in conjunction with some festive Christmas music and it’s a beautiful place to walk and explore.

Source: RHS

Enlightened Moments

Castle Park in Colchester has a 1.5km long light trail set up for the festive period from 6th-24th December daily  called Enlightened Moments. Head along for the approximately 1 hour walk in the evening.

Source: Enlightened Moments

You can view things to do in Essex at Christmas here. 

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