Join us for Ongar Christmas Festival & Lights

Sunday 30th November 2025!

 🎄 What to Expect

Christmas Market Stalls – from 2pm

Indoor Market Budworth Hall

• Matilda’s Sweet Treats

• City Charms

• E and N Boutique

• Temple Spa

• Daisy M Ceramics

• Little Voices Epping Forest

• Maggie’s sewing room

• Wiccaknitta

• Blue Flame Silver

• Ian G’s Wood Works

• The Coffee Post

• Ongar Academy

   

Activity Marquee – Library Car Park

Games, circus acts and magical entertainment throughout the afternoon.

• Punch & Judy Shows: 2:20pm & 4:15pm
• Magic Shows: 2:25pm & 5:00pm (£2 entry)
• Games include: Hook the Duck, Axe Throwing, Coconut Shy, Double Bucket Game & more.

Meet Father Christmas – FREE

Visit Santa in his magical grotto between 3pm–5pm, along with his lovely reindeers (Back by popular request).
Perfect photo opportunities – and Santa may even have a little gift to share!

Best Dressed Shop Window Competition

Find full details and cast your vote at the Ongar Town Council Stall on the High Street.

On the High Street

Visit the Young Farmers and the Scouts for mulled wine, hot chocolate and festive treats.
Covered seating will be available so you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere and the stage entertainment.

🎶 Live Entertainment will run from 2pm until the Christmas Lights Switch-On.
The full High Street Stage Schedule is displayed overleaf.

Ongar Christmas Festival 2025 – Main Stage Schedule

Compere: Amanda Poll

2:00pm – Welcome & Introduction   – Kelly & Cath
2:10pm – Luv Dance
2:25pm – Makaton Choir
2:45pm – Dr Walker’s Choir
3:35pm – Ongar Academy School –  “Annie” cast performance
4:00pm – Academy Arts
4:30pm – Amanda Poll
5:00pm – DJ
5:55pm – Dance 21
6:15pm – Scott Wood
6:30pm – Santa Parade Begins! Starting at Ongar Leisure Centre → Four Wantz → Down the High Street.  Santa dropped at the Christmas Tree with special guests. Parade continues to Two Brewers then returns up the High Street.
7:00pm – Christmas Tree & Lights Switch-On followed by Rock Choir & Community Sing-Along

Please note: All stage timings are approximate and may be subject to change on the day.

Supporting St Clare Hospice This Christmas

This year, we’re doing something extra special with our Christmas lights event – we’re helping to raise vital funds for St Clare Hospice, an incredible local charity that provides compassionate care to patients and families across our community.

If you’ve loved the Christmas lights event and want to give back, you can make a donation through our Christmas Jumper Day JustGiving page. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a real difference to the lives of those who need it most.

And if you’re a fan of festive knitwear, why not join in the fun? Get involved on 12th December by wearing your best (or worst!) Christmas jumper and help us spread some seasonal cheer while supporting this wonderful cause.

Together, we can light up Ongar and make a meaningful impact this Christmas.