Christmas on the Isle of Wight

Tapnell Farm | Select dates between 1 – 24 December

Calling all young explorers! At Tapnell Farm, an extraordinary adventure awaits you. Join the quest to find all of the missing letters to Santa and Sonny the Snowman, Santa's most reliable postmaster who is nowhere to be seen! Follow the clues, uncover secrets and eventually meet Santa himself! Head over to Tapnell Farm to embark on this heart-warming, interactive experience that your kids will cherish.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway | Select dates between 7 – 24 December

Step back in time aboard Victorian and Edwardian carriages at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for an extraordinary festive journey. Santa will be waiting for you in his cosy carriage decorated with twinkly lights, a tree and of course a stack of gifts for you! Watch the stunning winter landscapes of the Isle of Wight go by while enjoying this unique encounter with Santa making this event a perfect blend of nostalgia and Christmas cheer.

Cowes | 5 December

For those seeking the perfect gift, Cowes Late Night Shopping is the place to be. On 5 December, stroll through the charming streets of Cowes town, where you’ll find a wide array of locally owned boutiques and shops open for business. With the Red Jet conveniently located in the centre of Cowes, a range of independent shops and great places to eat and drink, it’s a date not to be missed. Coming from Southampton? Get a £12.90pp Super Off Peak day return when two or more people travel together after 11am.

Well Road Car Park (East Cowes) & Kings Square | 23 November

Get in the Christmas spirit at the East Cowes Christmas Market! With more than 25 stalls to browse, discover unique gifts, festive treats, and handmade crafts. Immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere and celebrate Christmas with local charm and community spirit. 

Osborne House | 9 Nov 2024 – 14 March 2025

For an intimate look at the history of Osbourne, enjoy Winter Guided Tours of this elegant palace by the sea. Feel transported to a bygone era of Victorian grandeur at Osborne House, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert's beloved royal residence. Grab this unique opportunity to delve deep into the stories and secrets the royal household. Uncover the hidden stories of the magnificent estate and gain insight into the roles that were essential for its prosperity.

Osborne House | Weekends between 30 November - 22 December

Join Father Christmas at Osborne this December for a magical way to start the festive season. Father Christmas is taking time out of his busy festive schedule to tell some of his favourite seasonal stories around the Christmas tree, in group storytelling sessions. You and your children will get to meet the man himself, take photographs and make memories to treasure. Father Christmas will also give every child a traditional present to unwrap.

Northwood House | 30 November - 1 December

Featuring a selection of over 40 of the best local gift exhibitors in art, craft and produce, The Northwood House Christmas Fair is the perfect inspiration for Christmas buying for those seeking something unique for their loved ones. The Christmas tearoom will be open with mince pies along with the House Bar serving seasonal mulled wine. Children can have a free meet & greet with Father Christmas in the snow cave and write him a letter to give to him in person with a chance for parents to take photos.

Northwood House | Select dates from 6 - 21 December

This year, the House Lounge are offering the same destination cocktail, wine & gin bar with a cool lounge vibe that you know and love, but with even better music! Playing funky, old-skool disco classics, nu-disco remixes, classic house and Ibiza-inspired anthems to get you dancing, it’s the perfect place for your social group, teammates, work colleagues or even your favourite employees! Join Island legend, DJ Omar and dance the night away! 

Brighstone Village | 5 - 8 December (Venues may differ)

From decorated trees to a Christmas Market, Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas pageant, and live music, explore a traditional Christmas event supported by the community. Local charities, businesses, schools, and community groups will come together to decorate the village of Brighstone. Proceeds from the festival go to support local causes across the Isle of Wight.

Newport | 10 December 

Teaming up with the Isle of Wight Festival and Isle of Wight Radio, Mountbatten Hospice are putting on a night of fireworks and fun at the iconic Robin Hill Country Park! Enjoy a spectacular firework display, a fire show, bonfire, live music, children’s entertainment, delicious food and a fundraising ZipFire! Daredevils, get ready, the ZipFire is the ultimate charity challenge. Fire cannons will flame and you fly across the 150m zipline. All profits will go towards caring for patients and families supported by Mountbatten.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway | 26 December

After the indulgence of the festive season, enjoy a relaxing train journey through the stunning Isle of Wight countryside. Settle back in a cosy carriage as you take in the ten-mile round trip while contemplating those New Year’s resolutions. Stretch your legs by taking the train to Wootton or enjoy a country walk, or a visit to the pub. Then stroll on over to the Station Restaurant or Barn Café for a warming mulled wine.

Isle of Wight Steam Railway | 1 January 2024

One of few attractions open on the Isle of Wight on New Year’s Day. After the indulgence of the festive season, enjoy a relaxing train journey through the stunning Isle of Wight countryside. Stretch your legs by taking the train to Wootton or enjoy a country walk, or a visit to the pub. Make sure to be around at midday, when the Railway 200 event will take place - a whistle salute acknowledging 200 years of train travel. 

Sandown | 1 January 2024

Celebrate the New Year in style with Sandown Carnival, as they raise funds for the year ahead. Fireworks are launched from the end of Sandown Pier, find the best viewing spots along Sandown Esplanade and be in the front row of the display! Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.

Busy Bee Garden Centre | Open Now

Experience the magic of Christmas at Christmas World 2024. Explore the award-winning Christmas department and indulge in a wide range of festive products and attractions. Discover the perfect gifts, dazzling decorations, and immersive experiences that will make this holiday season truly unforgettable. Visit now and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Ryde | Open All Year

Open all year round, the world-famous Christmas Imaginarium has been hand-crafted to ensure that Christmas lovers leave the everyday world behind as they step through the door. Be transported to a festive realm filled with the wonderment of he most magical time of the year. A shop that looks like a film set, become captivated by the traditional style ornaments that are way worth the visit, even in the middle of summer.

Shanklin | Open All Year

Nestled in the picturesque coastal town of Shanklin, Jingle Bells Christmas Shop has been a cherished part of people’s Christmas tradition since its establishment in 2009. With a rich history steeped in festive tradition, the shop has been a beacon of yuletide joy for locals and visitors alike. 

Whippingham | December (dates TBC)

St Mildred’s Church, Whippingham are inviting you to visit the church for their Christmas Tree Festival this festive season. The church will be adorned with beautifully decorated trees sponsored by local clubs, schools and businesses, including us! The coffee shop will be open so you can enjoy delicious warming drinks. All donations will be split between the East Cowes Food Pantry and the Salvation Army Christmas lunch for the homeless on the Island. 

The Garlic Farm | 9 November – 24 December

I Love Wight brings together the finest of the Isle of Wight’s crafts people to create a Christmas treasure trove of handmade delights. Unique special gifts, stocking fillers, gorgeous scents, cosmetics, pottery, jewelry, knitwear, crafts, all within the granary building complete with a warming log burner and twinkling Christmas lights. There will also be a special Artisan Christmas Market weekend over 30 November - 1 December with more outdoor stalls and musical entertainment.  

Ventnor & Gurnard | 26 December

The Boxing Day swims offer a refreshing start to the post-Christmas festivities. Whether you plunge into the icy waters or opt for a cosy spectator role, these swims provide a memorable beach experience. Gather at midday to embrace the exhilaration of the cold or relish the camaraderie from the warmth of your coat, celebrating tradition and community.