What’s On November & December

November

• Starling Murmurations (Somerset Levels) November – March
  

  A starling murmuration is a breathtaking spectacle that occurs when thousands of starlings gather in a tightly coordinated flock. This phenomenon is often considered the greatest wildlife event in Britain. During the winter months, a significant number of starlings migrate to Britain from continental Europe, seeking refuge from the colder temperatures. As dusk approaches, these birds embark on a remarkable journey to their communal roosts, creating one of the most awe-inspiring natural spectacles. Flocks of starlings converge from all directions, gathering in the skies above their chosen roost sites. As the number of birds increases to tens and hundreds of thousands, the resulting formations, known as “murmurations,” become truly mesmerizing. These dynamic flocks seem to take on a life of their own, swirling and twisting in intricate patterns, merging and dividing, and changing shape with astonishing fluidity. To find out how to see this vast spectacle, visit Avalon Marshes.

• Bishop’s Palace Christmas Market Saturday 2nd November & Sunday 3rd November 10 am – 4 pm.  Bishop’s Palace invites you to its annual Christmas Artisan Market weekend. Discover a delightful array of gifts and presents from over 60 vendors, perfect for yourself or loved ones. Your ticket includes admission to the gardens and offers significant savings compared to the regular entrance fee. Enjoy live music from local choirs and instrumental groups in the chapel on both days. Purchase your ticket online or on the day to enter the palace and gardens. Palace Members can enter as usual. Admission: Adult £8, Child £4.

• Illuminate at Hestercombe (Taunton) Thursday 29th November – Monday 30th December.

  This year, ILLUMINATE is set to transform Hestercombe Gardens into a magical winter wonderland. With a dazzling display of lights, colours, and sounds, the event promises to create a truly unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
  As darkness falls, the gardens will be illuminated with spotlights, colourful paths, and dynamic fountains, highlighting the natural beauty of the landscape. From the Great Cascade to the Pear Pond, visitors will be captivated by the stunning displays that come to life after sunset.
  This year’s ILLUMINATE event is expected to be even more spectacular than last year’s sold-out show, offering even more show-stopping sights and sounds to wow the entire family. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Hestercombe Gardens this Christmas.

• Hestercombe Gardens Christmas Market (Taunton) Friday 15th – Sunday 17th November, 9 am – 5 pm.
  Imagine strolling through a winter wonderland full of crafts and festive cheer at Hestercombe Gardens. With unique gifts and heart-warming treats, this market is where memories are made. Plus, the natural features and views of the Landscape Garden come to life at night, with spotlights, lit trees, and coloured paths drawing you up towards the Great Cascade, down past beautiful dynamic fountains in the Pear Pond, and through a Christmas tree grove below the Formal Garden, before finishing with a show-stopping display in front of Hestercombe House.

• Longleat – The Festival of Light (Warminster) Saturday 9th Nov – Sunday 5th January.

  This Christmas, embark on an unforgettable adventure through history at Longleat’s Festival of Light. Immerse yourself in a world of wonder as you explore a stunning array of interactive lanterns, each depicting iconic scenes from the Ice Age, Viking era, ancient dynasties, and more.
  Begin your day with a thrilling Winter Safari, before the enchanting lights come alive at dusk. Witness the breathtaking spectacle of the 15-meter Enchanted Christmas Tree show and take a nostalgic ride on the Santa Train.
  Longleat House itself will be illuminated in a dazzling light display, celebrating its 75th anniversary. Create lasting memories as you explore this magical wonderland and enjoy a day of endless festive fun for all ages.

• Christmas Light Switch On – Quedam Centre (Yeovil) Saturday 16th November.
  Watch as the town of Yeovil comes to life with the twinkle of Christmas lights at the light switch on. This celebration kicks off from 4.30 pm and promises an unforgettable evening filled with live music and dance performances from both local and professional groups. While the festivities continue, you and your family can enjoy a range of creative activities at Yeovil Art Space, ensuring there’s something for everyone to get involved in. EPS Yeovil will tantalise your taste buds with seasonal delights, and a craft market will be in full swing, offering the perfect opportunity to start your Christmas shopping early. Here, you’ll find local produce and handcrafted treasures from talented local artists.

• Glastonbury Carnival Sat 16th Nov, 6:45pm
  Be captivated by the enchanting sights and sounds of Glastonbury Carnival. A vibrant spectacle that’ll leave you spellbound. Find out more here.
  

• Lytes Cary Manor Christmas Market (Somerton) Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th November. 10 am – 3 pm.
  Pick up some unique gifts at this free entry event, while supporting many local makers.
  
  
  
• Bath Christmas Market Thurs 28th November to Sun 15th December.
  Bath Christmas Market is a magical experience like no other. Picture hundreds of chalets nestled amongst iconic monuments as you walk through the historic streets, soak up the festive atmosphere with mulled wine on every corner, sample the delights from the food sellers & find the perfect presents for your loved ones.
  
  
  

• West Somerset Railway Winter Lights Friday 19th November, various dates, – 31st December.
  Embark on a magical train journey through the heart of Somerset. At Bishop’s Lydeard Station, the magic begins. A seat aboard an illuminated steam train awaits, ready to take you on an unforgettable winter journey. Travel along the enchanted track, through woodlands and countryside transformed for the season. Spectacular lineside displays will shine and glow, to the amazement of the whole family. An encapsulating tale will unfold along the way, before you arrive at Crowcombe Heathfield, where you will gaze in wonderment through the carriage windows at a famous station steeped in festive spirit. It’s then back to Bishops Lydeard in your cosy, comfortable carriage before your wonderful Winter Lights journey becomes Christmas memories to treasure.

• Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens Illuminations (Dorset) Friday 22nd November – 4th January.
  Don’t miss the breathtaking spectacle of Abbotsbury’s illuminated gardens, where colourful lights transform and illuminate the Subtropical 18th-century gardens, creating a wonderful winter trail in the dark. Journey through the heart of the gardens on this year’s extended route and experience the rare plants and trees in spectacular colour, highlighting the forms, shapes, and textures about Abbotsbury.

• Glastonbury Frost Fayre Saturday 30th November, 10 am – 6 pm.
  Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Glastonbury Frost Fayre, where charming stalls, entertainment, and merriment abound. All day buskers, live performances from five stages on Benedict Street, Magdalene Street, Northload Street, Archers Way, and the Melodrome Stage at the top of the High Street, official light switch on for the Market Square Christmas Tree, and fairground rides for children.

• Taunton Winterfest Sunday 24th November, 10 am – 8 pm
  Enjoy a fun-packed day of fairground rides, great food, and fantastic entertainment. Stage performances include the finalists of Taunton’s Got Talent, part of Go Create, and many other local beloved bands. Look out for a real-life unicorn, a Snow Queen, Jack Frost, and those mischievous little elves. The Mayor and friends will officially turn on the Christmas Tree Lights at 6.30pm in the heart of the town.