The Wantage Dickensian Evening is a beloved annual Christmas festival, held on the first Friday of December in and around Wantage Market Place. Organised by volunteers and supported by Wantage Town Council and local sponsors, this free event is a celebration of community and Christmas spirit.This festive evening combines seasonal music, twinkling lights, and a wide variety of attractions for all ages, creating a magical atmosphere to kick off the holiday season.Originally created to support Christmas shopping and give local retailers a chance to thank their customers, the event has grown over the past two decades into a lively and inclusive celebration for the entire community.
Road Closures
Please note that Market Place and surrounding roads will be closed to vehicles from 4:00 pm to approximately 11:00 pm to ensure a safe and enjoyable evening for everyone.
Schedule Of Events
4:00 pm – Event opensBy the Christmas Tree:
- 4:30 pm – Uncle Wiggy
- 5:15 pm – Seasonal music by Wantage Silver Band
- 6:00 pm – Official opening and Christmas light switch-on
- 6:15 pm – Jigsaw performance of an extract from Oliver
- 7:15 pm – Communal carol singing with the Parish Church Choir and Wantage Silver Band
- 8:00 pm – Performance by Wantage Sings
- 5:30 pm – Uncle Wiggy at The Funky Teapot, Grove Street
- 6:30 pm – Dickensian Christmas Story with hot chocolate and mince pies at Wantage Library (open from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm)
- 7:30 pm – Icknield Way Morris Men and guests from Summertown Morris Men outside Sainsbury’s
- 7:55 pm – Morris Men performance outside Waitrose
- 8:30 pm – Final Morris Men performance by the Christmas Tree in Market Square
- 8:00 pm – Rock Choir performance in Newbury Street
- 7:00 pm – Al Jenkins performs in Newbury Street
- 8:00 pm – Al Jenkins at King Alfred’s Head Pub
- 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Local folk band Greengage performs Christmas carols and festive tunes at Wantage Methodist Church
- The King Alfred’s Head pub will host a pig roast.
Wantage Dickensian Evening
When
Friday 6th Dec 2024
4pm - 9pm
Road closures from 12:00 noon.
The whole of the Market Place and road leading to it, will be closed to all vehicular access.
The whole of the Market Place and road leading to it, will be closed to all vehicular access.
FREE ENTRY
What To Expect
Christmas Attractions throughout Wantage
Festive Carols with the Parish Church Choir
Performances by the Wantage Silver Band
Live Reindeer and Donkeys for family-friendly fun
Traditional Victorian Funfair
Mesmerising Stilt Walkers and street entertainers
A variety of Christmas Stalls with unique gifts and treats
Live Performances by local bands and artists
Festive Carols with the Parish Church Choir
Performances by the Wantage Silver Band
Live Reindeer and Donkeys for family-friendly fun
Traditional Victorian Funfair
Mesmerising Stilt Walkers and street entertainers
A variety of Christmas Stalls with unique gifts and treats
Live Performances by local bands and artists
Background Photo 2019 © Howard Hill