Representative artist’s impression of a festive evening in Guildford town centre
All guides

What’s on in Guildford: November and December 2026

Fireworks, winter lights, festive markets and family performances around Guildford.

Last checked: 2 November 2026. Please confirm times, availability and event status with the organiser.

November 2026

7 November: Guildford Lions Fireworks Festival

Stoke Park hosts an evening of live music, family entertainment and fireworks. Gates open at 5pm and close for entry at 8.15pm; the event ends at 9pm. Adult tickets are £17 in advance through 6 November or £20 on the day, including booking fees. Under-16s enter free with an accompanying adult.

From 14 November: Illuminate Guildford

A winter light trail around Guildford Castle’s grounds, with a new route and light installations. The organiser describes a walk of around 30 to 40 minutes, with refreshments and marshmallow toasting available. The town’s event listing runs through 31 December; check the operator’s calendar for actual open dates, timed sessions and ticket prices.

15 November: Guildford Festive Family Fun Day

Guildford High Street hosts a free family day from 11am to 4pm. Expect seasonal walkabout characters, music and town-centre activities as Experience Guildford launches its festive programme. Use the organiser’s current information for the programme and any changes affecting travel or access.

20 and 21 November: Cathedral Christmas Fair

Guildford Cathedral on Stag Hill brings together independent stalls selling gifts, crafts, food and other seasonal finds. The fair runs from 10am to 4pm on both days. Entry is £3 per person; advance online booking adds a 35p booking fee. The Cathedral also welcomes walk-in visitors.

Cathedral enquiries: 01483 547860 or reception@guildford-cathedral.org.

21 and 22 November: festive market at Guildford Pavilion

Curated by Dapper & Suave brings independent exhibitors to Guildford Pavilion, including gifts, food and drink. The published hours are 10am to 6pm on Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday. Follow the organiser’s information for the venue, admission arrangements and current exhibitors.

26 and 27 November: pop-up markets at The Drummond

The Drummond hosts Curated by Dapper & Suave’s independent shopping pop-ups in its outdoor space. The published hours are 3pm to 8pm on both Thursday and Friday. A smaller pub-market setting offers a different stop from the larger weekend fairs; check the organiser’s latest details before visiting.

December 2026

From 5 December: Sleeping Beauty

The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre’s Christmas pantomime opens on 5 December and continues to 10 January 2027. Tickets start at £15, with times and availability varying by performance. The theatre lists relaxed and signed performances separately, so choose the session that suits your party when booking.

Box office: 01483 440000 or boxoffice@yvonne-arnaud.co.uk. Venue: Millbrook, Guildford GU1 3UX.

11 to 13 December: The Wizard of Oz on Ice

Guildford Spectrum presents a skating production of The Wizard of Oz. Performances are at noon and 7pm on Friday, then 11am and 3pm on Saturday and Sunday. Friday matinee tickets start at £10 for adults and £9 for juniors; other performances and seating areas have different prices.

15 December: Christmas by Candlelight

G Live’s Main Auditorium hosts a concert of festive songs performed by singers and a live band. The town’s event listing gives a 7.30pm start. Use G Live’s official booking page for current ticket prices, seating and availability, and contact its box office for access enquiries.

Box office: 03433 100055. Venue: G Live, London Road, Guildford.

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