Christmas in Cambridge at Parker's Piece
Cambridge's beloved Christmas event returns to Parker's Piece, transforming the heart of the city into a winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy an open-air ice rink, a charming Christmas market, thrilling rides like the Big Wheel, and cozy themed lodges. Festive street food and seasonal drinks are available, making it a perfect destination for holiday cheer.
What to Expect
Vibrant Christmas market with ice skating and festive attractions.
Event Details
Duration
Varies by attraction (e.g., 1.5 hours for Alpine Lodge, 1 hour for Curling Lanes, 30 mins for Christmas Tree Maze)
Ages
All ages (with specific notes for Alpine Lodge after 19:00 and alcohol sales)
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Seventa
Food & Drink
Festive street food and drinks are available from various vendors and themed bars like the Alpine Lodge and Apres Terrace.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, friends
Vibe
Festive, lively, magical
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (outdoor attractions)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: There are over 6,500 free parking spaces available at nine park and ride sites across the city. Parker's Piece is conveniently located within 200m (approx) from Queen Anne Terrace Car Park.
- Accessibility: Accessible toilet facilities are available on site. The Alpine Lodge venue has ramps and accessible toilets. The ice rink is wheelchair accessible, but electric wheelchair wheels may not function properly if raining.
- Pets: Pets are welcome in any outside area. Assistance Dogs are welcome in any of the venues.
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets for popular attractions like the ice rink and Christmas Tree Maze in advance online to secure your spot, especially for weekend visits.
- Consider using Cambridge's park and ride facilities to avoid city center traffic and parking hassles.
- Dress warmly in layers and wear sensible footwear, as many attractions are outdoors and the weather can be unpredictable.
- Check the event's social media pages for updates on Santa's informal meet-and-greet times and potential giveaways for free skating sessions.
- While the market itself is free to enter, many attractions require pre-booked tickets; check the website for specific booking links for each activity.
Special Events & Promotions
- Opportunities to host private parties for groups of 5 to 1,500.
- Sponsorship opportunities for brands.
- Trade opportunities for retail and catering vendors in the Christmas Market.
- Group discounts for ice skating (10% off for over 10 people).
- Skating vouchers available as Christmas gifts.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours for Christmas in Cambridge?
The event is open from November 13th to December 31st, with varying hours on weekdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It is closed on Christmas Day and has specific closures on December 4th and 6th.
Can I bring my pet to the event?
While pets are encouraged to stay home due to crowds, they are welcome in outdoor areas. Assistance dogs are permitted in all venues.
What payment methods are accepted?
The main site is largely cashless, accepting Maestro, Mastercard, Visa, Visa Electron, Visa Vpay, and Apple Pay at bars and attractions. Individual market traders may have different payment preferences.
Is there parking available near Parker's Piece?
Yes, Parker's Piece is conveniently located near Queen Anne Terrace Car Park, and there are also nine park and ride sites across the city offering free parking.
Do I need to book tickets for all attractions?
Entry to the site is free, but booking tickets in advance online is highly recommended for attractions like the Ice Rink, Curling Lanes, Christmas Tree Maze, and Big Wheel to avoid disappointment.
More Christmas Events Near Cambridge
More Christmas Events near Cambridge
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.