Christmas events Essex 2026 | Christmas fayre in Essex
Searching for Christmas events in Essex 2026? As the festive season approaches, there are plenty of family attractions and opportunities to enjoy a little Christmas magic in and around the county. Whether you are planning a day out with the grandchildren, looking for a creative seasonal workshop or hoping to discover something new close to home, there are lots of local events to add to your calendar.
At Burnham Waters, we love celebrating the local area and the many experiences it offers throughout the year. Below, we have put together our guide to Christmas events in Essex for 2026, featuring everything from enchanting light trails and Father Christmas experiences to festive crafts and seasonal entertainment.
If you are searching for a Christmas fayre in Essex, or simply want to make the most of the festive season without travelling too far, our round-up offers plenty of inspiration.
If you are specifically looking for Christmas markets, take a look at our recent blog post: Christmas markets in Essex 2026.
Christmas events | Essex 2026
Christmas at The Stables, Hylands Estate
The Stables, Hylands Park, London Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8WQ
Thursday 19th November 2026, 5pm–9pm
Hylands Estate is welcoming visitors back for its festive evening at The Stables. Expect live music, seasonal entertainment and a chance to explore the estate's creative community in a historic setting.
It is a lovely way to start getting into the Christmas spirit, whether you are meeting friends for an evening out or looking for inspiration for the weeks ahead.
Find out more about Christmas at The Stables here.
Lumina Winter Light Trail at Marsh Farm
Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park, Marsh Farm Road, South Woodham Ferrers, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 5WP
From 21st November 2026 to 20th February 2027
For a festive outing after dark, Lumina transforms Marsh Farm into an illuminated world of colour, music and imaginative installations. The mile-long trail takes visitors through themed environments, with sparkling displays and surprises along the way.
Although it continues beyond Christmas and into February, it is a wonderful option for a winter evening with family or friends. Remember to book your tickets in advance and check the available dates before travelling.
Find out more about the Lumina Light Trail here.
The Father Christmas Experience at Marsh Farm
Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park, Marsh Farm Road, South Woodham Ferrers, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 5WP
From 21st November 2026
If you are planning a special festive treat for younger family members, Marsh Farm's Father Christmas Experience offers a magical journey into the world of the elves.
Children can visit the Elf Academy, enjoy festive shows, meet Father Christmas and take part in activities including decorating gingerbread and making a teddy bear. The experience also includes access to selected farm attractions, making it an option for a longer family day out.
This is a separately ticketed experience, so check the booking details carefully when choosing your visit.
Find out more about the Father Christmas Experience at Marsh Farm here.
Enlightened at Hylands Estate
Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 8FS
27th November 2026 – 2nd January 2027
Enlightened returns to Hylands Estate for another winter light trail, illuminating the park with colourful installations, interactive displays and atmospheric sound and lighting.
Follow the illuminated route through the grounds and enjoy the estate in a different light. It is an appealing choice for families, couples and groups of friends looking for an evening activity during the festive period.
As the trail runs beyond Christmas Day and into the New Year, there are opportunities to enjoy it at different points throughout the season. Wrap up warmly and check the event website for ticket availability and visitor information.
Find out more about Enlightened 2026 at Hylands Estate here.
Epping Ongar Railway's Lights Party Express
Epping Ongar Railway, Ongar Station, Station Approach, Ongar, Essex, CM5 9BN
Selected dates from November 2026 to January 2027
For something a little different, climb aboard the Epping Ongar Railway's Lights Party Express. The heritage railway's festive train is decorated with thousands of lights, creating an immersive experience combining illuminated scenery, music and interactive entertainment.
The 2026 experience includes new onboard shows and interactive LED wristbands, making it an option for families with children and teenagers as well as adults who enjoy a festive outing with a difference.
The railway is also running its popular Santa Specials on selected dates from 28th November, giving families another way to enjoy a seasonal train journey.
Find out more about the Lights Party Express here.
Christmas Fun with Santa at the Museum of Power
Museum of Power, Hatfield Road, Langford, Maldon, Essex, CM9 6QA
Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th December 2026, 9.30am–4pm
The Museum of Power is bringing back its popular Christmas event, combining a miniature train ride with a visit to Santa and Mother Christmas.
Children can receive a Christmas gift and enjoy festive snacks, while visitors can also explore the museum, see the miniature railway and discover the museum's collection of historic machinery.
It is a particularly appealing choice for families looking for a Christmas activity close to Maldon. Advance booking is essential for Santa visits, so check the museum's website for ticket availability.
Find out more about Christmas Fun with Santa at the Museum of Power here.
Christmas craft workshops with Essex Wildlife Trust
Various Essex nature discovery centres
November and December 2026
If you prefer a more creative way to celebrate the season, Essex Wildlife Trust has a programme of Christmas craft activities and workshops at its nature discovery centres.
Options include wreath making, pottery, fused-glass decorations, festive photography and Christmas crafts for children. These activities offer a chance to make something personal to display at home or give as a gift, while enjoying the surroundings of one of Essex's nature reserves.
For families, there are also seasonal trails and activities that combine time outdoors with festive fun. Events take place at different locations and on different dates, so check the individual listings for details and booking requirements.
Explore the Essex Wildlife Trust Christmas events programme here.
Plan your Christmas in Essex
From illuminated winter trails and festive train journeys to creative workshops and memorable experiences with Father Christmas, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the run-up to Christmas in Essex in 2026.
We recommend checking the event organiser's website before setting off, as dates, ticket availability and arrangements can change. Many of the most popular family experiences require advance booking.
If you discover a festive event in the local area that you think we should include, we would love to hear from you – just get in touch.
Discover Burnham Waters in Essex
Burnham Waters is a new retirement village in the riverside town of Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex, designed specifically for the over-55s.
Alongside a beautiful collection of energy-efficient, one, two and three-bedroom bungalows, our lifestyle village offers a welcoming community and a range of amenities designed to support an active and independent lifestyle.
Residents can enjoy green spaces and tree-lined pathways, with planned facilities including a fitness centre, swimming pool, pickleball courts and a community hub.
If you are considering a move to a retirement village in Essex, we would be delighted to welcome you to Burnham Waters.
Explore our range of one, two and three-bedroom retirement bungalows and discover more about the lifestyle and amenities on offer.
Our sales suite is open daily, and we welcome you to book an appointment to view our beautiful show homes.
To find out more, email info@burnhamwaters.co.uk or call our sales team on 01621 861559.
