Christmas in Andover: festive fun for all ages this winter
Andover town centre is set to sparkle this season with a packed programme of Christmas events, offering something for everyone. Best of all, many of the events are free of charge, so you can join the festive fun with more money in your pocket to spend supporting local businesses.
From markets and music to storytelling and Santa sightings, the town will be full of festive cheer, starting with the Andover Christmas Festival on Friday 21 November from 4pm to 7pm. This flagship event will transform the town centre with live performances, street food, lantern displays and the switching on of the Christmas lights. Families can enjoy everything from storytelling, fairground rides and a snow disco, to a visit to Santa’s Post Office – a new, interactive addition for 2025.
Santa’s Post Office offers a magical experience where children can meet Santa’s elves, write or draw a letter to Father Christmas and pop it in the special post box to send it on its way to Lapland. Open on select dates from 21 November to 22 December in the Chantry Centre, the post office is free to visit and includes quiet sessions on Sunday mornings, with reduced sound, lighting and people, for children who prefer a calmer environment.
Councillor Phil North, leader of Test Valley Borough Council, said: “Christmas in Andover is always special, and this year’s programme is bigger and better than ever. The pressure to spend money at this time of year can be very stressful for families, so it’s wonderful to see such a wide range of free events to bring people together and celebrate our community. Whether you’re shopping local, enjoying a show or posting a letter to Santa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Other highlights across the town include:
- Christmas Fair at Andover Museum – 22 November
- Festive indoor markets at the Chantry Centre – every Saturday from 29 November to 20 December
- Young Traders Christmas Market at the Chantry Centre – 7 December
- Carols around the Christmas Tree in the High Street – 12 December
- Second Sundays festive market – 14 December
- Storytime with Santa at Andover Library – 15 December
- Santa Cruises – 15 to 19 December
- Family shows at The Lights throughout the festive season
There’s also a 12 Days of Christmas trail at Andover Museum, lantern-making and solstice celebrations with Andover Trees United, and festive craft clubs for children.
For full listings and updates, visit thinkandovertowncentre.co.uk.