Twixmas: Exciting Events and Activities in Reading

20th December 2024

Whether you want to make the most of the holiday period, or just need a good reason to put on clothes that aren't pyjamas, here are some of the best events happening in Reading between Christmas and New Years.

Head to Basildon Park 

If you’re looking for some fresh air this holiday, how about taking the kids on a special Christmas trail to see the scenic views of Basildon Park? Till 5 Jan, there will be a Christmas Children’s Trail located in the pleasure gardens. You can pick up an activity sheet at visitor reception for £2 to help you find your way. You’ll also leave with a complimentary prize! If you’re visiting the mansion, adorned with twinkling lights and cinematic holiday magic, you can also spot their newest Christmas addition, Lights, Camera, Christmas. Each room is decorated with a nod to timeless Christmas films! 

The Snow Queen

At Reading Rep Theatre and only until 31 December, immerse yourself in a festive world inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless folktale. With original music, vibrant characters and a flurry of Reading Rep magic. Prepare to be captivated, whatever your age – you may even learn some crow along the way! Reading Rep are also offering discount codes for online bookings, including £5 tickets for certain performances for those aged 16-30 and 15% off family bookings.

White Christmas

Looking for a night out to visit the theatre and have a nice meal? Have a two course meal before watching White Christmas at Sonning Theatre. They have both afternoon and evening showings but book soon as there are limited seats left!

Cinderella Christmas Panto

It’s not too late to watch this fantastic show before the end of its run! Starring Justin Fletcher and Paul Morse, The Hexagon has multiple showings a day from Boxing Day till New Year’s Eve.

Wine and Cheese Tasting

It's the season for treating yourself and there's nothing more Christmas-y than wine and cheese! Treat yourself to some of the best at Stanlake Park, Twyford on the 27th (£25pp) for four generous samples of their very best wines, paired with a selection of British cheese, crackers and chutney.

Winter Wonderland

This year, Reading's Winter Wonderland has 15 attractions to choose from including the huge North Pole Giant Observation Wheel or the Penguin Bumper Cars or its signature Real Ice Rink, this year even bigger and better with 560 square metres of skating surface! Open again from Boxing Day.

Bingo Loco Xmas Special

Gear up for a night out at Sub89 on 27 December for the bingo rave where you will experience a show as you’ve never experienced before. DJs will be playing the biggest tracks of the of 90s and 00s! There'll be confetti showers, dance-offs and opportunities to win random prizes, ranging from lawnmowers and giant teddy bears to holidays!

Big Fat Quiz of the Year 2024

2024 has been quite the year! We've had elections, the Olympics, The Euros, a singer called 'Baby Lasagne'... It's all happened, and on 30 December, Double-Barrelled Brewery will be celebrating the year by putting as much of it as humanly possible in to an XL-sized quiz! Expect music rounds, free-drink questions, a huge picture round, and the usual giggles aplenty. Only £2 a person!

For more events this Twixmas, check out What's On Reading.