From twinkling lights to meeting the big man himself, there’s plenty going on in and around the New Forest in the lead up to Christmas.
Plan ahead for some exciting Christmas events – whether you are looking for some festive foodie treats to days out with all the family.
Take a look at some of the top Christmas events planned and make your New Forest Christmas extra special.
Follow some colourful Winter trails
Wrap up warm and take in the sights of some of the winter light trails that will be appearing ahead of Christmas in and around the New Forest.
Beaulieu’s Palace House will come to life with an Alice in Wonderland theme as part of their new festive experience for 2026. With magical installations, storytelling and plenty of surprises along the way – Alice’s Christmas Wonderland will take you on a journey through Alice’s imagination.
Image - Alice's Christmas Wonderland - National Motor Museum Beaulieu
Exbury Gardens will be running a host of Christmas events in the lead up to the big day (some of which we’ll mention further on) – however if you love a nighttime adventure then be sure to book a seat aboard the Christmas Night Train (30 November - 4 December). Glide your way past twinkling lights and festive displays on this 30-minute journey, with a special send off from Father Christmas himself.
Marwell Zoo, a short reach from the New Forest, will have a brand-new winter trail running this year. ‘Fire & Ice’ will feature fire performers, an illuminated ice maze, a fire dragon and much more. Plus, during the day seasonal activities will include a snowball fight zone, a Snow Window trail and opportunities to see some of the zoo’s resident animals. Marwell’s Christmas activities run from 30 November – 31 December.
Discover some festive foodie fun
Whether you are looking for a treat for yourself, are browsing for gifts or are simply looking to try some of the amazing produce the New Forest is known for, there are some very tempting food-related events taking place over the coming weeks.
Taking place on 15 November, Eats ‘n’ Treats will return to Brockenhurst College. A great chance to pick up some local fare and meet the producers. There will be a number of tempting stalls plus a pop-up bar, live music and activities to occupy the children.
Image - Eats 'n' Treats 2026 - Brockenhurst College
If you fancy a spot of pre-Christmas indulgence, then why not book a festive afternoon tea at the Montagu Arms Hotel? Running from 14 November – 31 December - savour a beautifully curated selection of sweet and savoury delights in front of a roaring log fire.
For something a little different, why not head to The Pig in Brockenhurst for their Christmas Cocktail Masterclass and Dinner? Learn how to mix up some festive cocktails before sitting down to a delicious seasonal dinner. A lovely way to celebrate with friends in the run-up to Christmas.
Image - Christmas Cocktail Masterclasses - The Pig
And if you are looking for ways to treat colleagues, or a group of you – take a look at some of the festive party evenings taking place at some of our New Forest hotels and restaurant. Balmer Lawn Hotel, Careys Manor and The Royal Oak, Beaulieu are just some of the venues offering Christmas party evenings.
Meet Santa at one of his New Forest grottos
Make your little one’s day by booking them in to meet Santa at one of our New Forest locations. Many of our big attractions will be running their own chances to meet Father Christmas, including:
- Exbury Gardens – evenings from 30 November – 4 December – where Santa will be stationed in a special railway carriage in the engine shed. Plus, on 28 – 29 November and 5 – 6 December when Exbury’s Christmas Fair returns.
- Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Stewarts Garden Centre from 21 November – 24 December.
- Marwell Zoo – selected dates from 30 November as part of the Fire & Ice event.
Be sure to book your slot in advance to avoid any disappointment.
Image - Meet Father Chirstmas - Exbury Gardens & Steam Railways
Book onto a New Forest Wreath Making workshop
Hone your creativity this Christmas season by booking a slot onto a wreath-making workshop. Create a beautiful masterpiece for displaying on your front door and create treasured New Forest memories as part of the process. Wreath making workshops can be found at Stewarts Garden Centre, Careys Manor Hotel and Lime Wood Hotel to name a few.
Image - Lime Wood
Spend time as a family on a New Forest adventure
There are plenty of ways to spend magical time together in the lead up to the big day. Head along to Paultons Park for their annual Celebration of Christmas. See the park decorated in colourful lights and ride some of the big and little thrills with rollercoasters for those high adrenalin adventures through to rides suitable for little ones at Peppa Pig World. Look out for Christmas performances on the big stage and lots more seasonal fun.
Longdown Activity Farm will be opening up its Christmas Barn again this year with snowy scenes and twinkling lights. On selected dates in December the Ice Princess and Ice Queen will also be paying a visit.
Image - Paultons Park
With festive activities, dazzling entertainment and seasonal dining, book a short break at Sandy Balls Holiday Village for this year’s Winterfest. Taking place from 20 November - 20 December, early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Plan your Christmas fun
These are just a selection of some of the top events taking place in the New Forest this Christmas, explore our Christmas pages where you can find a wealth of information on festive dining, seasonal breaks, other Christmas events and lots more. Plus, don’t forget to keep an eye on our socials for more seasonal inspiration!
