One of the most magical times to visit the city of Lincoln is at Christmas time. With its cobbled streets aglow with festive lights, shop windows adorned with sparkling decorations and cosy cafes offering plenty of festive treats.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, planning a day out with your family, or looking to make Christmas memories at one of the city’s festive events, this beautiful city has everything you need to kick off the festivities.
Start your journey in the vibrant city centre, where you’ll find a whole host of shops and restaurants on offer. This year, there will be plenty of lights and decorations to enjoy, alongside Christmas trails, pop-up markets, and the return of Thor’s Tipi Bar.
For a delightfully Dickensian experience, follow the twinkling lights up to the Cathedral Quarter. Lined with characterful shops, these cobbled streets wouldn’t look out of place in a Christmas movie. As well as an abundance of photo opportunities, you’ll find some wonderful independent shops here – and plenty of places to stop for a hot chocolate.
Lincoln Cathedral offers breath-taking experiences with rooftop tours and various Christmas events, while Lincoln Castle offers plenty of fun for the entire family, including rides, festive treats and amazing Christmas lights.
Come and discover the magic of Lincoln this Christmas.
Lincoln Castle Illuminated
29 November – 23 December
Scale the illuminated castle walls and take in the beautiful night-time views across the city and county; enjoy the castle grounds bejewelled with festive lights and give your warmest season’s greetings to the resident castle dragons – Lucy and Norman. As no Christmas event is complete without festive food, local vendors will be offering sweet treats and winter warmers, including hot chocolate and mulled wine.
Lincoln Ice Adventure
7 & 8 December
This enchanting experience will feature 16 ice sculptures, across the city’s iconic locations, perfect for visitors of all ages. A live ice-carving demonstration of the infamous Lincoln Imp will also be taking place on both days.
The adventure begins with a unique message from Santa explaining that he needs help finding the missing piece that has caused his journey in spreading Christmas cheer to come to a halt. With each ice sculpture will be a clue that reveals one of the 16 letters needed to complete the adventure.
Alongside the adventure, members of the public can submit their own ice sculpture designs in the Post box ice sculpture located on Highbridge in the city centre.
The winning design will be featured in next year’s Lincoln Ice Adventure display, offering a unique chance for creativity to shine during the city’s beloved winter celebration.
Visitors can also enjoy a Gluhwein stall in the Castle Square, a carousel in the Castle Hill car park and the Makers Market in the Castle Square and Castle Hill car park from 10am until 6pm on both days.
There will be performances from soundLINCS Choir, Boston Rock Choir, Lincoln Ukulele Band, Annie Griffith community Choirs, City of Lincoln Band and Fire & Rescue Band across the weekend along with entertainment from Guiding Sparks and Aura Performances.
Lincoln Christmas Lights Trail
28 November – 3 January
Running through the festive period, the Christmas Lights Trail will illuminate the city with a dazzling array of intricate light displays and enchanting installations.
