LION WALK COURTYARD CHRISTMAS EVENTS 2025
Friday 21st November - Pre Launch Party - The Hit List
Discover the magic of the season at Lion Walk Courtyard, where live music and festive cheer come together in perfect harmony. The incredible Hit List brings warmth and sparkle to the soft launch, creating the perfect atmosphere for families and friends to gather, unwind, and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
At the heart of Colchester, Lion Walk Courtyard is more than a shopping destination - it’s a place to connect, indulge, and make lasting memories. Enjoy delicious food, festive drinks, and the joyful spirit that makes this vibrant courtyard the ultimate spot to shop, eat, and celebrate this Christmas.
PRE LAUNCH - FREE FAMILY EVENT - 5PM TO LATE
Saturday 22nd November - Lion Walk Chirstmas Light Switch On
Get ready for an unforgettable day as Lion Walk Shopping Centre bursts into festive life for the Christmas Light Switch On on Saturday 22nd November. The stage will shine with performances from the cast of Goldilocks and the Three Bears from the Headgate Theatre, alongside the incredible Yazmin Wood and a special guest – the winner of Colchester’s Got Talent 2025. In a moment of pure Christmas magic, Father Christmas and The Grinch will meet live on stage, bringing laughter, surprises, and a few festive fireworks to delight the whole family. To top it all off, Shrek will take centre stage to switch on the lights, with the Mayor of Colchester and City Centre Town Crier, revealing a stunning special Light Display FX that will fill Lion Walk with colour, music, and Christmas wonder.
This marks the start of a truly magical season at Lion Walk Shopping Centre, where festive moments come alive. Enjoy live entertainment, family fun, and delicious seasonal treats as the centre transforms into the heart of Colchester’s Christmas celebrations - the perfect destination to shop, eat, drink, and make memories together.
FREE FAMILY FUN ALL DAY
Thursday 27th November - Killer Cabaret
Step into the electrifying and mysterious world of KILLER CABARET at Lion Walk Courtyard, where Colchester’s finest dancers get you on the edge of your seat.
Prepare for an evening of intimate, immersive entertainment that blends sensational song, dazzling dance, and unforgettable performances - all revolving around one very curious incident. An incident that twists the night in thrilling, unexpected, and delightfully dark ways. But don’t be the Grinch… perhaps they deserved it.
KILLER CABARET is a festive murder mystery experience unlike any other - bursting with suspense, sparkle, turkey, and tinsel. A real nightmare before your Christmas, this show invites you to laugh, gasp, and guess your way through an evening of high drama and holiday mischief. It’s the perfect grown-up festive treat at Lion Walk Courtyard - bold, brilliant, and brimming with yuletide intrigue.
KILLER CABARET - TICKETED EVENT - 6PM TO 11PM
Friday 28th November - A Taste Of Greece
Transport yourself to a Mediterranean Christmas celebration at Lion Walk Courtyard with A Taste of Greece on Friday 28th November. As festive lights twinkle across the courtyard, guests will be treated to a warm and welcoming evening that blends the joy of the season with the spirit of Greece. Enjoy a freshly prepared two-course festive Greek menu, featuring your choice of Chicken, Lamb or Vegetable Moussaka followed by indulgent Baklava, complemented by an included soft drink or alcoholic beverage of your choice.
The night comes alive with traditional Greek dancers and live entertainment, creating a vibrant celebration filled with laughter, rhythm, and festive flair. Perfect for families, couples, and friends seeking something extraordinary this Christmas, A Taste of Greece invites you to dine, dance, and delight in a truly unforgettable experience at Lion Walk Courtyard - Colchester’s destination for food, culture, and Christmas magic.
TICKETED EVENT - 6PM TO LATE
Saturday 29th November - Unknown DJ'S
Get ready to turn up the volume this festive season as Lion Walk Courtyard presents The Unknown DJs on Saturday 29th November. Step into a night of electric energy, where dance beats, cocktails, and great company come together beneath the glow of the Christmas lights. The atmosphere will be alive with festive spirit, transforming the courtyard into Colchester’s ultimate open-air music lounge.
Enjoy delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes and handcrafted cocktails from The Greek’s Kitchen, while the DJs take you on a journey through rhythm and sound. Whether you’re gathering friends for a night out or capping off your weekend in style, this free-entry event is set to be one of the season’s highlights.
Reserve your free table today on the 'contact us' page and celebrate Christmas at Lion Walk Courtyard, where the music, lights, and festive funnever stop.
FREE EVENT - OPEN ALL DAY EVENING FROM 6PM - LATE
Wednesday 3rd December - Lion Walk Late Night Shopping
Make your Christmas shopping sparkle with Late Night Shopping at Lion Walk Shopping Centre, every Wednesday throughout December. As the lights twinkle above and festive music fills the air, take your time exploring your favourite stores and discovering unique gifts for everyone on your list. From stylish fashion finds to thoughtful stocking fillers, Lion Walk brings together the perfect mix of high street favourites and local gems.
After ticking off your shopping list, unwind in the warm glow of Lion Walk Courtyard. Enjoy a seasonal cocktail, a festive bite, or a cosy catch-up with friends while soaking up the atmosphere of Colchester’s most magical destination.
With extended hours, entertainment, and plenty of Christmas cheer, Late Night Shopping at Lion Walk is the perfect way to make every Wednesday night merry and bright.
FREE ENTERTAINMENT - OPEN ALL DAY TO LATE
Thursday 4th December - First Thursdays with Creative Colchester
Get set for something special on Thursday 4th December as Lion Walk Courtyard teams up with Creative Colchester to host First Thursdays - a celebration of culture, creativity and community.
As part of the city-wide monthly festival, the courtyard will come alive from 6pm to 9pm with the best of local creative talent entertaining under the stars.
This is your chance to experience art, music, and spoken word in an intimate and spontaneous setting - a perfect midweek escape.
Explore Lion Walk, enjoy festive food and drink, and let the spirit of Lion Walk Courtyard become your backdrop for a night of surprises, local innovation, and creative connection.
More information from our partners at Creative Colchester https://creativecolchester.org.uk/
FREE ENTERTAINMENT - OPEN ALL DAY TO LATE
Friday 5th December - Mango Panda Christmas Party
This Christmas, the rhythm of the season comes alive with the Mango Panda Takeover at Lion Walk Courtyard - the beating heart of Colchester’s festive community.
Dance, shop, and celebrate together as Mango Panda fills the courtyard with joyful energy, electrifying beats, and dazzling lights.
From local food and family fun to vibrant performances, it’s where the spirit of Christmas truly comes to life.
Join the celebration at Lion Walk Courtyard - the Christmas hub of the community, where music, laughter, and togetherness make the season shine.
FREE ENTERTAINMENT - PARTY CLASSICS TO LATE
Saturday 6th December - Lion Walk Disco Wonderland
Step into the sparkle of Disco Wonderland at Lion Walk Courtyard, where festive lights meet the magic of the dance floor.
Let house beats, shimmering décor and joyful energy take you back to the golden age of disco, reimagined for Colchester’s Christmas season.
Sip handcrafted cocktails, share delicious food, and dance beneath the stars as the courtyard transforms into a glittering winter celebration.
Perfect for friends, families and those who love to move, Disco Wonderland invites everyone to shine. Experience the rhythm, feel the joy and celebrate the season in true Lion Walk style — bright, bold and unforgettable.
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - 5PM TO 11PM
Sunday 7th December - Soul Sundays
Ease into the weekend rhythm with Soul Sundays at Lion Walk Courtyard, where smooth sounds, great food and relaxed vibes create the perfect Sunday escape.
Enjoy soul performances that fill the courtyard with warmth and style, setting the tone for laid-back afternoons shopping with friends and family.
Sip something special, savour delicious dishes and unwind under the soft glow of festive lights.
With free entry and an atmosphere that soothes the spirit, Soul Sundays make Lion Walk Courtyard the place to be - a soulful celebration in the heart of Colchester.
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT - OPEN TO LATE
Wednesday 10th December - Late Night Shopping
The magic of Christmas continues as Lion Walk Courtyard hosts its penultimate Dece,ber Late Night Shopping evening.
Selected stores will stay open until 8pm, giving you more time to find the perfect gifts while enjoying live music and free entertainment for the whole family.
Santa’s Grotto will be open late, adding a sprinkle of festive wonder for little visitors, while grown-ups can relax with cocktails and street food under the glow of twinkling lights.
Make your Wednesday extra special and experience the joy of shopping, dining and celebrating at Colchester’s favourite festive destination - Lion Walk Courtyard.
FREE EVENT - OPEN ALL DAY TO LATE
Thursday 11th December - Killer Caberet (Second Debut)
Return to the scene of the crime as Killer Cabaret takes over Lion Walk Courtyard once again on Thursday 11th December.
Step into a world of music, mystery and mischief, where dazzling performances and darkly comic twists create a night of unforgettable festive fun. Expect sensational singing, striking choreography and a story that unfolds in the most unexpected ways.
Bursting with suspense, sparkle and a touch of tinsel, Killer Cabaret is Christmas entertainment with an edge.
Gather your friends, follow the clues and enjoy an evening of laughter, drama and daring delight at Colchester’s festive heart - Lion Walk Courtyard.
KILLER CABARET - TICKETED EVENT - 6PM TO LATE
Friday 12th December - Live Music Night
Celebrate the festive weekend in style as Live Music Night returns to Lion Walk Courtyard on Friday 12th December. Enjoy an evening filled with brilliant local performers, seasonal favourites and uplifting soul tunes that bring the courtyard to life.
Gather your friends, share delicious food, sip handcrafted cocktails and let the music carry you into the Christmas spirit.
Under the glow of the lights, every note adds to the warmth and wonder of the season. With free entry and a lively atmosphere, Soul'd Out promises an unforgettable evening of rhythm, laughter and festive singing and dancing at Lion Walk Courtyard.
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE FAMILY EVENT 6PM TO LATE
Saturday 13th December - The Oomparty Band (Evening)
Raise your steins and your spirits as Lion Walk Courtyard welcomes the Oomparty Band on Saturday 13th December. Experience a night of upbeat brass, infectious rhythm and festive fun as traditional sounds fill the air with cheer.
Gather your friends and family for an evening of laughter, music and dancing beneath the glow of twinkling lights.
Enjoy hearty street food, warming drinks and the unmistakable energy of live Oomparty entertainment in the heart of Colchester. With great music, delicious flavours and a joyful atmosphere, this is one Christmas night out you won’t want to miss at Lion Walk Courtyard.
TICKETS ONLY £10
OPEN ALL DAY - TICKETED ADULT EVENING EVENT 6PM TO LATE
Sunday 14th December - Oomparty Band (Matinee)
They’re back for an encore! Join the festive fun as the Oom-Pah Band returns to Lion Walk Courtyard on Sunday 14th December for another round of lively tunes, laughter and cheer.
Expect foot-tapping brass, singalong classics and plenty of energy as the courtyard fills with the unmistakable sound of celebration.
Gather your loved ones, enjoy delicious street food and warm drinks, and soak up the atmosphere of Colchester’s favourite Christmas spot.
W
hether you’re dancing, dining or simply enjoying the show, this second day of Oomparty magic guarantees an unforgettable festive Sunday fun day afternoon at Lion Walk Courtyard.
TICKETS ONLY £10
OPEN ALL DAY - FAMILY MATINEE EVENT FROM 1PM
Wednesday 17th December - Late Night Shopping
Finish your Christmas shopping in style as Lion Walk Courtyard hosts the final Late Night Shopping evening of the season on Wednesday 17th December.
Enjoy a magical night filled with live music, festive entertainment and that unmistakable Christmas spirit as selected stores stay open until 8pm.
Santa’s Grotto will welcome last-minute wish lists, while delicious street food and seasonal cocktails keep everyone merry.
Soak up the sparkle, discover those perfect gifts and celebrate the season in Colchester’s most festive setting.
The final Late Night Shopping event is your perfect reason to stay, shop and celebrate at Lion Walk Courtyard.
OPEN ALL DAY - UNTIL LATE
Thursday 18th December - Acoustic Thursdays
Unwind beneath the glow of Christmas lights as Acoustic Thursdays return to Lion Walk Courtyard on Thursday 18th December. From 7pm to 10pm, enjoy an evening of smooth acoustic sounds performed by some of Colchester’s finest local artists.
The courtyard will be filled with laid-back melodies, warm food aromas and the gentle buzz of festive cheer. Relax with friends, savour a seasonal drink and soak in the atmosphere of Colchester’s most magical setting.
With free entry and an incredible line-up of live talent, Acoustic Thursdays are the perfect way to enjoy music, food and Christmas spirit at Lion Walk Courtyard.
FREE FAMILY EVENT - OPEN ALL DAY TO 11PM
Friday 19th December - Stereophonics Tribute Live
Get ready for a night of incredible live music as Stereophonies, the international tribute to The Stereophonics, take the stage at Lion Walk Courtyard on Friday 19th December.
Relive the anthems, the energy and the unmistakable sound of one of Britain’s greatest bands, performed live in the heart of Colchester’s festive celebrations.
Enjoy great food, cocktails and the vibrant atmosphere of the courtyard as it lights up with music and Christmas spirit.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or love a great night out, this is one unmissable festive performance at Lion Walk Courtyard. Free entry, unforgettable vibes.
FREE ENTERTAINMENT - ALL DAY - EVENT 6PM TO LATE
Saturday 20th December - Popina Christmas Party
Get ready to dance the night away at Lion Walk Courtyard’s ultimate Christmas Party on Saturday 20th December. From 5pm to 11pm, DJs Josh Bond and The Greek take over the decks, bringing incredible Disco soundtrack to Colchester’s most festive setting.
Expect infectious beats, glittering lights and the unmistakable buzz of celebration as the courtyard transforms into a vibrant dance floor beneath the Christmas winter sky.
With mouth-watering food, handcrafted cocktails and plenty of Christmas sparkle, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends and family.
Dress up, bring your festive energy and enjoy an unforgettable evening of music, laughter and good vibes at Lion Walk Courtyard.
FREE EVENT - DISCO 5PM TO LATE
Sunday 21st December - Soul Sundays: Irie J
Ease into the festive groove as Soul Sundays special guest Irie J returns to Lion Walk Courtyard on Sunday 21st December.
Open all day we welcome Irie J from 2pm to 6pm, his smooth vocals and soulful beats will fill the air, bringing the perfect mix of Christmas warmth and rhythm to Colchester’s ultimate festive destination.
Gather friends and family for an afternoon of great music, good food and relaxed celebration beneath the courtyard lights. Enjoy delicious dishes, festive drinks and the uplifting sound of live soul that will have everyone smiling.
With free entry and an unbeatable atmosphere, Soul Sundays with Irie J is the perfect way to shop, unwind and celebrate the season at Lion Walk Courtyard.
OPEN ALL DAY - IRIE J PERFORMS 2PM TO LATE
Monday 22nd December - Christmas Family Fun
Celebrate the magic of the season at Lion Walk Courtyard’s Christmas Family Fun Day on Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd December, from 12pm to 5pm.
Enjoy a wonderful afternoons of games, art and live music, designed to bring festive smiles to visitors of all ages.
Meet Santa in his grotto, get creative with arts and crafts, and join in the laughter as the courtyard fills with Christmas cheer.
With tasty street food, warm drinks and plenty of entertainment, it’s the perfect way for families to come together for family fun before the big day.
Entry is free, the fun is endless, and the festive spirit is guaranteed at Lion Walk Courtyard, Colchester city centres ultimate Christmas destination.
FREE FAMILY EVENT - OPEN ALL DAY TO LATE
Tuesday 23rd December - Christmas Bash
Let us lead you into Christmas Eve with the Big Christmas Bash at Lion Walk Courtyard on Tuesday 23rd December, open all day to 11pm.
Celebrate the festive season in true Lion Walk style with an unforgettable evening of live music, great food and festive drinks.
The courtyard will come alive with Christmas lights, laughter and energy as friends and families gather for one last big night before the big day.
Whether you’re dancing to the beat, enjoying a cocktail or soaking up the atmosphere, the Big Christmas Bash promises the perfect mix of fun and festivity. Join us for Colchester’s ultimate pre-Christmas celebration at Lion Walk Courtyard.
OPEN ALL DAY - FREE EVENT 3PM - LATE
Our Community
Lion Walk Courtyard Santa's Christmas Grotto!
Launches 22nd November 2025. Book now limited tickets available.