As winter approaches, there’s so much to look forward to in the Lake District, Cumbria. From lively lantern processions and quirky masquerade festivals to Christmas markets and traditional fayres, there’s something for everyone. Take a look at what's on here.

^{Photo: Barrow Christmas Lights Switch On 2021}

Christmas Lights Switch On Events

See our towns and villages light up for Christmas with lights switch on events taking place across the county this winter.

Ambleside Christmas Lights Switch On | 19 November

This popular community event includes Father Christmas boat cruises, local market stalls, a lantern procession and a fireworks display.

Barrow Christmas Lights Switch On | 19 November

Head to the coastal town of Barrow for an evening of festive fun, as their Christmas Lights switch on in style. Last year’s event saw live music in the town square as well as fairground rides and plenty more.

Cockermouth Christmas Lights Switch On | 21 November

Enjoy live music, reindeer, story time and plenty more at this family friendly Christmas lights switch on in Cockermouth.

Wigton Christmas Lights Switch On | 27 November

Wigton’s Christmas Lights Switch on event will include live performances, as well as an ice rink, fun fair, and festive atmosphere.

Maryport Christmas Lights Switch On | 27 November

An afternoon of festival fun, packed with family friendly entertainment leading up to the big event at 5pm, which will see the town sparkle with Christmas lights.
 

^{Photo: Carlisle City Council / D&H Photographers}

Christmas Markets

Get into the festive spirit with a visit to one of our Christmas markets: enjoy seasonal food and drink, and pick up local gifts to take home.

Holker Winter Market - 4 - 6 November

Located in the beautiful grounds of Holker Hall, this Christmas market features handmade artisan gifts, live entertainment, and lots of festive food and drink. Tickets to the event include access to the markets, gardens and hall - so it’s a great way to spend a day out alongside doing a little Christmas shopping!

Ulverston Dickensian Festival 26 & 27 November

Step back in time at Ulverston’s popular Dickensian Festival and welcome in the festive season at this Christmas market with a traditional twist. The smell of mulled wine and roast chestnuts fills the air as you wander along cobblestone streets, sampling local produce and picking up gifts made in Cumbria.

Carlisle Christmas Market - 2 - 11 December

This December, Carlisle’s city centre will transform into a festive winter wonderland thanks to a brand new Christmas Market. Discover festive gifts, food and drink in over 40 Alpine style chalets: there’ll be everything from decorations and gifts to mulled wine and macaroons.

The market will be open daily from the 2nd until the 11th December.

Kirkby Lonsdale Christmas Market - 2 - 4 December

The charming market town of Kirkby Lonsdale is the perfect place to get into the Christmas spirit. The annual Christmas Market takes over the main square, filling it with local food and drink producers and gift stalls. 

Hawkshead Christmas Fair - 3 & 4 December

An ever popular event in the picturesque village of Hawskhead, with plenty of giftware as well as delicious local food and drink. Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, mulled wine in hand, as you soak up the festive atmosphere. There are also street performers, live music performances and plenty more to enjoy.

Keswick Victorian Fayre - 4 December

Celebrate the Christmas season in the north Lakeland town of Keswick, at the popular Victorian Fayre. Stall holders and fair goers alike dress in Victorian costume; there’s also live music, festive games and a funfair for children to enjoy.

Rydal Mount Christmas Fair - 10 & 11 December

Celebrate the festive season in the former home of William Wordsworth at Rydal Mount: a historic home with stunning views over Windermere and Rydal Water. If the location itself wasn’t temptation enough, over the weekend of 10 - 11 December the house will be filled with festive cheer, with craft stalls, refreshments and more at their Christmas Fair.

Taste Cumbria Christmas - 10 & 11 December

If you like festive food and drink, you’ll love Taste Cumbria Christmas. Held in Cockermouth, this popular food festival highlights the best of Cumbrian produce, with a local makers market; outdoor picnic area with live music; and a hot food court. There will also be plenty of gifts and homewares to shop for the perfect Christmas gift. 

Windermere Christmas Celebration - 10 & 11 December

Back for its first event in three years, the Windermere Christmas Celebration will this year transform the pretty village of Windermere into a Winter Wonderland, with festive market stalls alongside plenty of food, drink and Christmas cheer.

Sedbergh Late Night opening - 14 December | 5 - 8pm

Head to the traditional market town of Sedbergh this December for an evening of Christmas shopping, as local shops stay open ‘til 8pm. Father christmas will be in attendance, with Santa’s Grotto open for families to visit. There will be live music, market stalls, and lots more.