Henley-on-Thames is gearing up for one of its most magical evenings of the year with the Christmas Festival and Late-Night Shopping, taking place on Friday, 29th November 2024. The event, running from 5pm to 9pm, promises to bring festive cheer to the town with entertainment, shopping, and family-friendly fun for all.
Christmas Lights Switch-On
The highlight of the evening will be the Christmas Lights Switch-On at 7pm, performed by The Mayor of Henley, Clemmie O’Hanlon from Trinity School (this year’s Christmas Card Design Competition winner), and none other than Dame Mary Berry.
Dame Mary Berry, who has been a proud Henley resident for four years, said:
“I’m delighted to be switching on Henley’s Christmas lights. We moved here 4 years ago and love the pretty riverside town of Henley. The Christmas Festival is a fantastic event that really gets everyone into the Christmas spirit.”
The tree, located in the Market Place, is a centerpiece of the festival, beautifully decorated by Party Planners and adorned with 8,000 sparkling lights, installed by the Christmas Decorators.
Festive Stage Performances
The stage, hosted by Daisy Smith, will come alive with performances from local talent throughout the evening:
- 5:00pm: Henley Children’s Theatre
- 5:15pm: Diva’s & Dudes
- 5:30pm: Stageworks
- 5:45pm: Stagecoach Henley
- 6:00pm: Blue Mic Choir
- 6:30pm: Lantern Parade arrives
- 6:40pm: Kenton Theatre Pantomime Cast
- 7:00pm: Lights Turn On
- 7:10pm: Carols with Woodley Concert Band
- 7:30pm: Reading Operatic Society
- 8:00pm: 8 Ray Music
- 8:30pm: JBMAC
(JBMAC will keep the party alive with a special post-event performance at Cheesy Grape.)
Late-Night Shopping and Festive Offers
Henley’s shops will remain open until 9pm, offering special discounts, festive treats, and in-store entertainment, including Stocks offering free nibbles and bubbles, Whistles offering 20% discount, The Bull will be giving out complimentary hot chocolate and mince pies, Gorvett and Stone will have tasters of their delicious Hot chocolate tasters, Laurence Menswear will have Mulled wine and a magician, Wild and Rust have an offer on Christmas decorations and so much more……
Additionally, visitors can enjoy a range of over 80 food stalls, tradestands, and fairground rides throughout the evening.
Santa’s Grotto with Sensory Hour
Santa will be welcoming children at King’s Arms Barn from 4pm to 7:30pm, with the first hour dedicated to a sensory-friendly experience for those who need a quieter environment. Henley’s Santa inclusive approach, including the use of sign language last year, makes this a highlight for many families.
Roaming Entertainment and Special Market
The streets will come alive with performances by the Enchanted Players Theatre Company, delighting visitors with their roaming entertainers.
This year, Henley is also introducing its first-ever Christmas Market, running from 10th to 22nd December. The market will feature a variety of local, artisanal gifts, perfect for last-minute shopping.
Paul Carey, Henley’s Town Centre Manager, shared his excitement:
“Henley at Christmas is a magical place to be, the tree decorated by our friends at Party Planners and adorned with 8,000 sparkling lights by the Christmas Decorators. This year we are hosting for the first time a Christmas Market from 10th to 22nd December with local artisanal gifts for all. Henley Town Council wishes everyone a very Happy Festive Period.”
Acknowledging Our Sponsors
Henley Town Council extends its heartfelt thanks to the sponsors who have made this event possible: Wilkins, Peppard Building Supplies, Medlocks, Invesco, Zzoomm, Blanchards Law, The Argyll, Aviron Associates, Party Planners, Visit Henley, Pratts Pods, Facy, Tigers n Tiaras, Ridgefield Consulting, Mercers, Amber Galleries, Magoos, Henley Menswear, Rupert House School, Tim Peers Estate Agents, The Catherine Wheel, Anthony Paul Jewellery, and Keep in Touch (Part of Fidelity).
Safety and Assistance
For any first aid needs, St John Ambulance will be stationed at the Town Hall, which will also serve as the Lost Child Point for the evening.
Plan Your Visit
With road closures from 3pm to 11pm, visitors are encouraged to arrive early to make the most of the festivities. Whether you’re looking to shop, enjoy local food, or take in the entertainment, Henley promises a night to remember.
Make this holiday season one to cherish—join us for the Christmas Festival and Late-Night Shopping Evening on 29th November 2024!
