Celebrate Christmas in Hampshire in 2025
Christmas is a time when the true feeling of community comes alive across Hampshire, and in 2025, that is no different. There are festive events, fairs and experiences steeped in local spirit; local makers selling handmade produce; neighbours enjoying familiar traditions; Christmas days out in Hampshire open to everyone – this is the season that truly shows the character of Hampshire.
Why Hampshire Feels Magical at Christmas
Christmas is a magical time of year, and the winter months truly highlight the county’s charm. Hampshire’s villages glow under festive lights, wide open green spaces remain picturesque, and the rural backdrops and welcoming towns make the season feel special.
Christmas in Hampshire is also the ideal time for local communities to come together to create a sense of warmth and togetherness. From volunteers and community groups to parish halls and neighbourhood gatherings, the festive season shows the very best of Hampshire’s spirit. This is why many consider Hampshire to include some of the most beautiful villages at Christmas in the UK.
Top Christmas Markets & Fairs Across Hampshire
Christmas markets are a staple of the season, bringing a true sense of community while supporting local makers and small businesses.
In Eastleigh, celebrations on Saturday 15 November 2025 began with a full day of festive activity and entertainment. The Makers Market opened at 11:00 am in The Point, alongside the Christmas Market on Leigh Road, featuring community stalls, local crafts, and a fireworks finale. These events are among the most popular Christmas markets in Hampshire, drawing families and visitors from across the county.
Chandler’s Ford’s local library is holding a craft fair on Saturday, 29 November, where visitors can find unique handmade gifts and festive treats, supporting local crafters and small businesses. This event is a highlight among Christmas fairs in Hampshire.
Just a short drive from Otterbourne and Fair Oak, the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market runs from 21 November to 22 December, featuring over 100 wooden chalets for local and global vendors, with a wide selection of handmade crafts, gifts, decorations, and seasonal food and drink. Entry is free, making it a top choice for free Christmas in Hampshire activities and a must-visit for those exploring the region’s Christmas in Hampshire 2025 events.
Festive Events and Family-friendly Christmas days out in Hampshire.
Beyond shopping for gifts and sampling local delicacies, there is plenty to do in the wider Hampshire area. The Point Theatre in Eastleigh is holding a musical fairytale adventure called TINK! A Festive Neverland Fairytale, beginning Saturday 13 December and running to Sunday 28 December, with shows running from 10:00 am until 5:30 pm.
Just a 25-minute drive from Chandler’s Ford, there is a Christmas Carol Concert at St Peter’s Church, Titchfield, on 8 December 2025, featuring traditional carols with local musicians and guest readers.
In Otterbourne, via the Itchen Valley Country Park, there is a Christmas Trail called Nutmeg’s Adventure, starting on 29 November and running throughout December. The trail includes an interactive woodland experience for families, culminating in a festive song and lantern procession to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.
Christmas Lights & Illuminations
Nothing says Christmas quite like turning on the Christmas lights, and in Hampshire, there is a delightful array of places to choose from. On 1 December 2025, the Ampfield Meadows Lights Switch-On in Chandler’s Ford will feature choir performances and a lantern parade.
Christmas lights in Ringwood, just a 30-minute drive from Otterbourne, will kick off their celebrations on 30 November 2025, including festive markets, live music, Santa’s grotto, and the all-important Christmas lights switch-on at the end of the day.
These light displays are among the highlights of Hampshire Christmas events, providing enchanting backdrops for evening walks and family visits.
Planning & Practical Tips
Christmas in Hampshire is a busy time, and it’s important to be prepared, so we put together some practical tips to help you make the most of festive events across Hampshire:
- Book Early: Many of the Christmas markets, shows, and workshops sell out fast. Reserve tickets for theatre shows like TINK! or sign up early for lantern workshops at Itchen Valley Country Park.
- Transport & Parking: For events in Eastleigh town centre, like the Christmas lights switch‑on, consider using public transport or arriving early to find parking. Chandler’s Ford and Fair Oak have local car parks, but they fill up quickly at peak times.
- Accessibility: If you have young children, buggies or limited mobility, verify that the venues (such as The Point Theatre or Country Park trails) are accessible beforehand.
- Community Spirit: Some of the best festive experiences come from community-run events. Look out for parish councils or village websites for pop-up carol services or donation events, and many smaller events are held in village halls or parks, so check in advance whether food, toilets or seating are provided.
Christmas in Hampshire in 2025 truly captures the heart and soul of the regional community, countryside charm and seasonal joy. At Rowe & Co, we believe that Hampshire offers something unique, not just for a Christmas day out, but as a place where communities come together.
Living in Hampshire means you’re never far from festive markets, Christmas lights, woodland trails and family-friendly events. Whether you’re dreaming of where to see Father Christmas in Hampshire, searching for your next home, or just planning a magical seasonal weekend, Rowe & Co has the local insight you need.
Contact us to explore properties in these beautiful villages and towns, and let us help you discover how life in Hampshire for Christmas can be more than just a visit; it can be home.
