LIVING ADVENT CALENDAR
HENLEY-ON-THAMES
ABOUT US
The Henley Living Advent Calendar brings the magic of the festive season to life in the heart of Henley-on-Thames. Inspired by an original idea from Stockholm, the event first began here in 2011 and was one of the very first of its kind in the UK. Running every evening from December 1st to 24th, it captures the excitement of a traditional Advent calendar — but with a live twist. At 6:15pm each evening, a new “window” or “door” opens somewhere in town to reveal a surprise 20-minute performance. These enchanting moments might include songs, carols, poetry, music, readings, dance, or even snippets of local folklore; all celebrating Christmas and the winter season. READ MORE… Each venue is carefully paired by the Organising Committee with a local performer or group, creating a unique and community-driven event. Originally launched by the Henley Business Partnership and now proudly run by Henley Town Council, the Living Advent Calendar continues to promote Henley as a vibrant winter destination for residents and visitors alike. Collections and raffle ticket sales take place every evening, with all proceeds donated to local charities and good causes.
OUR LATEST FEATURE
24. St Mary's Church
24TH DECEMBER 2025
St Mary's Church
LIVING ADVENT CALENDAR 2025
A huge thank you to all the wonderful businesses, schools, churches, community groups, charities, and local performers – 24 sets in total – who are bringing the spirit of Christmas to life across Henley. We’re especially thankful to Richard Rodway for his incredible dedication and leadership in previous years, his legacy continues to shine through every carol and twinkling light. This year, Henley Town Council has joyfully taken the reins, and we’re excited to keep the tradition going strong.
As you enjoy the performances, please don’t forget to be generous to the fantastic charities taking part. And if you’d like to provide or partner with a venue next year, we’d love to hear from you!
1
Town Hall Steps
Step into the Christmas spirit at the entrance to the Town Hall on December 1st, where the doors to our Living Advent Calendar swing open in spectacular fashion! Join us as we kick of the event and raise a merrily jingling toast to our first charity partner, The Royal British Legion. Let’s “sleigh” the season together with festive cheer, warm mulled wine, and goodwill for all — come help us kick off 24 nights of wonder and giving. What’s an opera singer’s favourite Christmas drink? Fa-la-la-la-laaaa-ger. Read more
Angel on the Bridge
The Angel on the Bridge with Henley Town Council in aid of Regatta for the Disabled
2
Angel on the Bridge
On December 2nd, our Christmas star shines brightest at the Angel on the Bridge. Wrap up in cozy scarves and join us by candlelight as we unveil tonight’s Advent surprise and support the Regatta for the Disabled. It’s snow joke – your attendance will help us deck the halls of generosity. Don your Santa hat and feed your holiday spirit (and your heart). You are guaranteed to laugh, dance and grin. Read more
3
Leander Club
The bells are jingling, and on December 3rd, Leander Club is the place to be! Gather round for stunning performances, festive treats, and behind-door surprises, all in aid of Leander Trust who support young athletes. Why did the band keep their instruments in the fridge? Because they wanted to play cool music Read more
HAODS Studio
HAODS Studio with Henley Town Council in aid of Henley Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society
4
HAODS Studio
December 4th at the HAODS Studio, behind the Kenton Theatre, promises to be tree‑mendous! Expect twinkling lights, dreamy vocals, and a joyous reveal to benefit Henley Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society. Bring the whole family — kiddos, grandparents, pets in sweaters (optional!) — and help us sprinkle holiday joy all around. Read more
5
Hart Street Tavern
On this fifth night of December, the Hart Street Tavern becomes a winter wonderland. Join us for our Living Advent window reveal, festive music, sweet treats, and fundraising fun for The Kenton Theatre. Let’s make this season even more magical — be there for the merry, be there for the giving. Read more
6
Trinity Church
December 6th is full of cheer at Trinity Church! Indulge in mince pies, hot cocoa, and our surprise Advent unveiling, all in support of CAP Debt Centre. Yule be loving this one! Businessman: How much will it cost to buy a large singing group? I need one for a party. Lady: Do you mean a choir? Businessman: Okay, fine. How much does it cost to acquire a large singing group? Read more
8
Christchurch Centre
On December 8th, the Christchurch Centre hosts festive performances to benefit Henley Music School. Come enjoy music, laughter, and a little holiday magic! What Christmas Carol do parents love the most? Silent Night. Read more
9
The Old Bell
Step into The Old Bell on December 9th to support Shelter with an evening of jazzy music and merriment. Celebrate the spirit of giving this Christmas. Why don’t Christmas trees knit? They’re afraid of dropping their needles! Read more
11
Chiltern House
Philip Booth Esq Estate Agents welcome you to Chiltern House on December 11th for an evening of festive cheer, supporting Riverside Counselling. Share the joy of music, stories, and giving. What do snowmen eat for breakfast? Frosted flakes! Read more
12
The Anchor
Join us at The Anchor on December 12th for a cozy night of performance and charity, supporting NOMAD. Celebrate community and the magic of the season. What’s Santa’s favourite type of music? Wrap! Read more
14
Kenton Theatre
December 14th brings the magic to Kenton Theatre itself, supporting local theatre and community spirit. Come share in the joy of the season with song, dance, and laughter. What did Cinderella say when the chemist mislaid her photos? Some day my prints will come. Read more
15
Henley Library
Henley Library opens its doors on December 15th for performances supporting MyVision Oxfordshire. Celebrate reading, music, and the festive season with family and friends. Why was the Christmas tree so bad at knitting? It dropped all its needles! Read more
Market Place
By the Christmas Tree in the Market Place with Henley Town Council in aid of Bishopswood School Association
17
Market Place
Come a visit the Market Place by the Christmas Tree on December 17th for an evening supporting the Rotary Club and Sonning School. Enjoy carols, cheer, and a sprinkling of winter magic. What did one snowman say to the other? Do you smell carrots? Read more
18
The Bull on Bell Street
Join us at The Bull on Bell Street on December 18th to raise funds for The Burnt Chef Project. Celebrate local talent and holiday spirit with friends and neighbours. Read more
19
The Eyot Centre
On December 19th, the Eyot Centre hosts festive performances to raise funds for the Eyot Centre. Enjoy music and community cheer. Read more
20
Flyte Bar
Flyte Bar opens its doors on December 20th for a night of festive fun supporting a local Cancer Charity. Join in songs, laughter, and the joy of giving. A new venue to Henley, this is the perfect opportunity to explore the new venue and hear some top class vocals with some real X Factor. Read more
21
Henley Rugby Club
Step into the Rugby Club on December 21st for performances supporting Camp Mohawk. Celebrate winter, nature, and community spirit! Read more
22
Christmas Tree on the Market Place
Return to the Market Place Christmas Tree on December 22nd for a festive evening in support of the Chiltern Centre. Enjoy music, carols, and the magic of the season. Read more
24
St Mary's Church
Celebrate Christmas Eve at St Mary’s Church on December 24th, supporting the Mayor’s Charities and including a raffle of a famous item of clothing……. The Mayor’s Shirt! Enjoy carols, readings, and festive performances to conclude our Advent Calendar in style! Read more
OUR CHARITIES
Each night a different charity will be showcased and fundraised for. All monies raised that night will be donated to that charity. Charities and good causes being supported this year include:
2025 EVENT GALLERY
OUR SPONSORS
The success of the Living Advent Calendar is built and depends on the contributions made to it by all of those individuals, business and organisations involved, who give up their time, effort, and financial support, but for which the event simply would not be possible.
We are passionate about maintaining and developing the Living Advent Calendar, as a means of continuing to bring together the people, businesses and community groups of Henley, and for some very deserving local causes. If you are interested in getting involved with the event or being a sponsor, contact the Town Hall (enquiries@henleytowncouncouncil.gov.uk) In the meantime, thank you to all our existing and ongoing contributors and sponsors…..
FEATURED SPONSORS
Blandy & Blandy solicitors
Claire Dyer, Chair and Partner at law firm Blandy & Blandy, located at 24 Thameside, said: “Having been involved in a number of Living Calendar events in previous years, we are delighted to be sponsoring the Henley Living Advent Calendar this year, alongside a small number of other local firms and businesses we know well. These events always bring so much to the town and local community – not least lots of festive cheer! Well done and good luck to everyone involved throughout December.”
Henley Standard
The Henley Standard are key media partners for the event.
Blue Peak
Blue Peak are delighted to be supporting the Living Advent Calendar again this year. “It’s such a wonderful community event that brings people together in the spirit of generosity and celebration. We’re especially proud that the event is helping to raise funds for our chosen charity, The Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, a charity that provides such vital care and support to local children and their families. Our priority in sponsoring is to help raise awareness for an incredible cause, and be part of something that spreads joy and togetherness throughout the festive season.” Blue Peak is a dynamic boutique Accountancy and Tax business based in the Thames Valley. The team includes tax and accounting professionals with a wealth of experience both in practice and industry in technical and commercial roles.
Henley Business Partnership
We are delighted to have the continued support of the Henley Business Partnership, which was responsible for the creation of the Henley Living Advent through it’s then Chair Julie Perigo. It remains a keen supporter and promoter of local business, groups and events.
Philip Booth Esq Estate Agents
Philip Booth Esq Estate Agents is proud to announce its sponsorship of the 2025 Henley Living Advent Calendar. Philip Booth, Director, a keen supporter of the event since its inception in 2011, commented: “We feel that the Living Advent Calendar aligns perfectly with our business, being at the heart of the Henley community and raising money for lots of good local causes, many of which are close to our hearts.” Established in 2014, Philip Booth Esq is a specialist residential sales agency handling all types of properties from town centre flats to country houses. It is now recognised as one of the leading independent Estate Agents in both Henley-on-Thames and Marlow, selling homes in South Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire.EVENT HISTORY
CONTACT US
Make an enquiry or add a comment
