What’s on this Christmas? The Bury St Edmunds 2024 Guide

Whether you are looking to plan a day out with the whole family and friends or even a special date night,  there are plenty of activities and events to appeal to all. 

There are plenty of free things to do in Bury St Edmunds to get you in the festive spirit, including the Christmas Lights Event and the Christmas Window Competition.

On Thursday, November 14th, from 3 pm to 8 pm, wander into town to see Bury St Edmunds lit up and ready for Christmas. Browse the charity, craft and gift stalls at the Cornhill and  Buttermarket and take a picture with the Snow Lion and Father Christmas and his sleigh. Don’t forget to watch the live stage performances by local schools and performers, too.  

Many town centre businesses are also taking part in the Christmas Window Competition, which  runs from Monday, November 25th to Sunday, December 13th, and this year, it is hosted on the  Our Bury BID Website, where the public can view and vote for their favourite window display.  There is a Christmas Hamper worth up to £150 to be won by one lucky person (T&Cs apply),  and those placing a vote are automatically entered into the prize draw. 

Leading up to Christmas, Bury St Edmunds will host various musical and live performances to get you in the mood for the big day.  

Those who like dancing or variety performances can enjoy The Nutcracker, an extravaganza of beautiful music and dancing, lavish costumes, and an exciting storyline from November 10th to  12th. Tickets are available from Bury St Edmunds Theatre Royal. For anyone who enjoys more interactive and lively entertainment, the town is hosting Anton Du Beke and friends, for an evening of dancing, music, singing and laughter. To join the ticket waiting list for this event, visit  The Apex’s website. 

As ‘the best way to spread Christmas cheer, is singing loud for all to hear,’ why not get in the mood with live singing performances from various global and local groups? G4 is celebrating its  20th Anniversary Christmas tour on December 21st at the beautiful St Edmundsbury Cathedral.  Take advantage of their one night in Bury St Edmunds by singing a mixture of carols, classic  Christmas songs and festive pop favourites. The St Edmundsbury Cathedral Choir is kicking off  Christmas with their festive favourites at 6 pm on December 7th. Also at St Edmundsbury on  December 20th is the London Concertante’s Viennese Christmas Spectacular, an evening of  Tchaikovsky, Johann Strauss and Brahms, all by candlelight. At The Apex, the local Bury Friendly Orchestra, joined by the Thetford Singers, will perform seasonal favourites, including Leroy Anderson’s ‘Christmas Festival’ and ‘Sleigh Ride’, in their Christmas Celebration.

At the end of this month, St Edmundsbury is hosting Bekah of Rose and Rhubarb for a Christmas Wreath Making Workshop. During the 2-hours of artisan flower crafting, you can make a luxury wreath to take home, using seasonal foliage, natural decorations and velvety ribbon. Whether you are a creative professional or a complete beginner, this workshop caters to all.  

Kicking off the festivities, on December 1st, the Buttermarket and Cornhill will be full of jewellery, clothes, gifts, homeware, personalised goods and locally produced food and drinks, at the Bury St Edmunds Christmas Makers Market.

The Angel Hotel‘s Sunday Sessions are getting a festive makeover. Enjoy a delicious 3-course  Sunday dinner accompanied by local musicians Jess and Dean for soulful timeless classics, or  Serena for chilled acoustics. Choose from 4 dates throughout the month and book through The Angel Eaterie. 

Christmas is the time of social gatherings such as work parties, old friends meeting up, and family meals. Many restaurants offer Christmas menus and party bookings to celebrate the festive season. The One Bull 3-course Christmas menu runs throughout December only for pre-booked groups. The menu includes a range of options for dietary requirements and tastes,  including brie and cranberry, a roast turkey dinner, and a bailey dessert. Enjoy local produce in cauliflower soup, salmon darn and mulled wine poached pear from Damson & Wilde‘s festive menu. Celebrate Christmas Thaim at Giggling Squid with goodies such as ‘Duck the Halls,’ ‘Prancer Prawns,’ and ‘Yule Thai’d Prawn Curry’, sure to get you in the party mood!  

There is so much to do in Bury St Edmunds this year to celebrate Christmas with your loved ones, whether looking for good food, live entertainment or something crafty. Browse all our fantastic Christmas Events, including the Christmas Lights Event, today!