Harpenden makes the most of the festive season, with lights switch-ons in three parts of town, several Christmas markets, a pantomime at the Eric Morecambe Centre and carols on the Common on Christmas Eve. Here is everything confirmed so far for Christmas 2026, in date order.
Christmas lights switch-ons
- Harpenden Christmas Carnival and Lights Switch-On: Sunday 22 November, 12pm to 6pm, in the town centre. The November Farmers’ Market is part of the Carnival.
- Batford Christmas Lights Switch-On: Thursday 26 November from 4.30pm, with carol singing by local schools, craft making and free refreshments.
- Southdown Christmas Lights Switch-On: Friday 27 November from 5.30pm, with carol singing, fairground rides, stalls and a chance to meet Santa.
Christmas markets
- Harpenden Sustainability Market (festive edition): Sunday 15 November, 10am to 3pm on Harpenden Common. A good place to find sustainable and locally made gifts.
- Harpenden Christmas Market: Saturday 28 November, 10am to 4pm at the Eric Morecambe Centre, run by We Are Harpenden. Expect wreath-making workshops with Sarah Stuart Flowers, a photo pop-up, live entertainment from Rich Symons, and food from Waffle Wands and Mozzarella Fellas.
- Christmas Farmers’ Market: Sunday 20 December, 10am to 2pm on the High Street, the last Farmers’ Market of the year.
Pantomime
Rapunzel – A Tangled Tale is this year’s pantomime at the Eric Morecambe Centre, running from Saturday 5 to Wednesday 30 December. Produced by Polka Dot Pantomimes, it stars Lorraine Stanley, Lloyd Warbey and Josh Handley. Tickets start at £15 from the box office on 01582 767525.
Festivals and carols
- Christmas Tree Festival: Friday 11 December (2pm to 8pm) and Saturday 12 December (12pm to 8pm) at Harpenden United Reformed Church on Vaughan Road. Trees are decorated by local charities and businesses, and you can vote for your favourite.
- Carols on the Common: Christmas Eve, Thursday 24 December, from 6pm on Harpenden Common. Hosted by The Harpenden Trust, it is free to attend, with donations going to the Trust’s Christmas Appeal.
Shopping and eating out
Doing your Christmas shopping locally? Our guide to shops in Harpenden lists independent shops, gift shops and more. For festive meals, see our guides to restaurants and pubs and bars in Harpenden.
We will add more festive events as they are announced, so keep an eye on what’s on in Harpenden.
Dates and times are correct at the time of writing. Please check with the organiser before you travel.
