festive celebrations during this exciting time of year!
There are so many things to look forward to this Christmas: events, performances, lights and decorations, celebrations, competitions, activities and so much more!
Explore Harpenden's Vibrant Town Centre
Our Twinkle Lights Trail returns this year offering a festive outdoor activity. Simply download or pick up a map and follow the lights around the town. Take photos with our stand-up displays, enjoy discovering the route around Harpenden and spend time in our shopping hubs. More information will be announced soon!
Local businesses and charities with a shop front have joined together to take part in our Christmas Window Competitions. Together the windows create a fantastic festive display and a wonderful way for visitors to admire the local shops and the products they sell. If you are a retailer or charity look out for further information which will be announced soon!
What's on
Our online calendar lists Harpenden's Christmas events which are both hosted by the Town Council and other organisations. Let us know if you think there are any missing! Here are just a few:
Harpenden Christmas Carnival and Lights Switch on Sunday 22nd November Christmas is a magical time in Harpenden and the Town Council warmly invites you to our spectacular Christmas Carnival from 12-6pm. It's free to attend and everyone is welcome.
Christmas Emergency Services Day is open at Harpenden Fire Station on Sunday 22nd November from 1-5pm. This event is run in partnership with the Christmas Carnival. Come along to take a closer look at emergency services vehicles: fire engines, police cars, St Johns Ambulance and more, find out about the services, join in with the activities and receive crime prevention advice.
Batford Christmas Lights Switch On - 26th November Wrap up warm for the Christmas Light Switch On in Batford, Harpenden. This is a wonderful community event which includes carol singing, craft making and free festive refreshments for the Batford community! Further information will be updated here soon.
Southdown Christmas Lights Switch On takes place on the 27th November. This exciting festive community event brings a variety of entertainment including carol singing, fairground rides and stalls. Enjoy free entry to meet and greet Santa and craft activities! Local businesses will also be involved with special Christmas themed offerings.
The Mayor of Harpenden's Charity Carol Concert returns this December. Join the Mayor for some traditional carol singing a together with performances by local schools. All proceeds to the Mayor's Nominated Charities.
Harpenden Christmas Farmers' Markets
Shop local, support independent businesses and enjoy the festive atmosphere!
Our festive Farmers' Markets at the Christmas Carnival on Sunday 22nd November, 12pm – 6pm, and Sunday 20th December, 10am – 2pm, will feature a wonderful selection of everything you need over the holidays.
Among this year's traders are a variety of independent businesses selling gifts, festive foods, unique luxuries and everyday items and artisan products. Here are just four of the stalls ready to welcome you.
Other useful information
The latest edition of Forum magazine will be delivered during October. Inside you'll find all the information you need to celebrate Christmas in Harpenden. News featured on this website page and much more can be found throughout the publication!
LATEST NEWS
15/06/2026 11:10
Discovering Harpenden
The parks and green spaces of Harpenden are not only diverse in the amenities they offer to visitors, but also hugely important to local wildlife and biodiversity. Wander to Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve, for example, to enjoy a rare chalk lined stream, reed fen, wet woodland, meadows, hedgerows and the River Lea.
27/02/2026 13:07
Business Mentoring
Harpenden Town Council has partnered with The Harpenden Collective to offer an exciting new Business Mentoring Programme.
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