What to See at The Everyman Theatre This November in Cheltenham
17 Christmas Concerts in Gloucestershire – Festive Music & Carol Services for 2025
From candlelit carol services in awe-inspiring cathedrals to intimate choral performances in historic market towns, Gloucestershire is alive with the sound of Christmas this year. Whether it’s traditional carols, classical works, or family-friendly favourites you’re after, there are festive concerts and services to suit every taste and every age across the county.
Gather family and friends to experience uplifting music, moving readings and magical settings in some of Gloucestershire’s most iconic venues. Enjoy stirring performances from choirs, orchestras and brass bands, alongside atmospheric candlelight, twinkling trees and glorious historic architecture providing the perfect seasonal backdrop.
From Gloucester Cathedral and Cheltenham Town Hall to castles, chapels and community spaces, these concerts offer a wonderful way to pause, reflect and celebrate together. Explore the options below to discover where to enjoy Christmas concerts, carol services and festive music near you this season.
Christmas Events in Gloucestershire | Carol Concerts & Festive Shows
Meningitis Now Christmas Concert at Gloucester Cathedral
Meningitis Now Christmas Celebration Concert at Gloucester Cathedral.
The Meningitis Now Christmas Celebration Concert at Gloucester Cathedral promises a heartwarming evening filled with festive cheer and community spirit. Set within the stunning surroundings of this historic building, the concert brings together supporters, families and friends for a night of uplifting music and reflection at a very special time of year.
Featuring performances from The Chalford Band, The I-Sing Choir and the talented Two Can Theatre Choir, guests can look forward to traditional Christmas carols, festive musical favourites and opportunities to sing (and sign!) along. It’s a cherished annual event that offers a moving and magical way to support the vital work of Meningitis Now.
> Meningitis Now Christmas Concert – More Info
Advent Carol Service at Gloucester Cathedral
Advent Carol Service in the magnificent surroundings of Gloucester Cathedral.
For those wondering what’s on in Gloucester this Christmas, the Advent Carol Service at Gloucester Cathedral is an unmissable way to begin the festive season. This uplifting candlelit service marks the start of the Christian year, with a moving procession from the West to the East end of the Cathedral, symbolically journeying from darkness into light.
Beautiful choral music, readings and prayers create an atmosphere of hope and anticipation, offering a chance to pause and reflect before the Christmas rush begins. Perfect for anyone seeking a sense of faith, unity and tradition, this cherished annual service captures the true spirit of Advent in a grand communal celebration.
> Advent Carol Service – More Info
Gloucester Cathedral Christmas Experience at Night – 5–6, 13, 15, 17, 19 & 20 December
Gloucester Cathedral illuminated for the Christmas Experience at Night.
Gloucester Cathedral’s Christmas Experience at Night invites visitors to see this spectacular building in a completely different light. After dark, the Cathedral feels even more magical, with decorations, music and a special festive atmosphere transforming the historic interior into an unforgettable seasonal experience.
Stroll through the beautifully lit spaces while live music is provided by Cathedral musicians and friends, and soak up the ambiance with opportunities for Christmas shopping in the Gift Shop. The Monk’s Kitchen eatery will be open, serving mulled wine, mince pies and other seasonal treats, making it the perfect place to capture that magical festive selfie.
Make your visit extra special with an ‘unwrapped’ ticket, offering behind-the-scenes access to either the iconic Cathedral Tower or the candlelit medieval Library. It’s a unique way to explore one of Gloucestershire’s most famous landmarks at the most enchanting time of year.
> Gloucester Cathedral Christmas Nights – More Info (5–6 Dec)
> Gloucester Cathedral Christmas Nights – More Info (Mid-Dec Dates)
> Gloucester Cathedral Christmas Nights – More Info (Late Dec Dates)
‘Carols on the Hour’ at Gloucester Cathedral
Carols on the Hour filling Gloucester Cathedral with festive music.
Carols on the Hour is one of Gloucester Cathedral’s most cherished festive events, returning with uplifting 30-minute performances every hour from late morning through the afternoon. The Cathedral choirs and musicians bring the magic of Christmas to life, filling the magnificent space with much-loved carols and seasonal favourites.
This family-friendly celebration is ideal for those searching for Christmas carol concerts in Gloucester, offering a relaxed atmosphere where all ages can listen, sing along and soak up the festive spirit. No booking is required and entry is free, although donations to support the Cathedral are very much appreciated.
> Carols On The Hour – More Info
Newent Choral Society Christmas Concert
Newent Choral Society performing their Christmas concert.
For those seeking an afternoon filled with festive music and joyful cheer, the Newent Choral Society Christmas Concert is not to be missed. The choir will present Bob Chilcott’s beautiful Christmas Oratorio, followed by a delightful selection of traditional and contemporary Christmas carols in a warm and welcoming setting.
It’s the perfect way to ease into the season, whether you’re a long-standing supporter or discovering the choir for the first time. With refreshments available, visitors can relax and enjoy a charming festive experience that captures the true spirit of Christmas in Newent.
> Newent Choral Society Christmas Concert – More Info
Clare Teal’s Festive Fiesta at Berkeley Castle
Clare Teal bringing festive swing to Berkeley Castle.
Berkeley Castle welcomes award-winning jazz singer and broadcaster Clare Teal for two exclusive festive performances, bringing her much-loved Festive Fiesta to this spectacular historic setting. Guests can expect exhilarating swing, seasonal sparkle and a dazzling mix of Christmas classics, jazz standards, contemporary favourites and original material.
Drawing inspiration from icons such as Peggy Lee, Doris Day, Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald, Clare Teal’s expressive voice and trademark wit promise an unforgettable celebration of song and story. With performances at 3pm and 7pm, it’s a magical way to experience Christmas at one of Gloucestershire’s most atmospheric venues.
> Clare Teal’s Festive Fiesta – More Info
Orchestral Christmas Concert at Berkeley Castle
Orchestra Pro Anima performing in the Great Hall at Berkeley Castle.
Orchestra Pro Anima, under the direction of Michael Bochmann MBE, returns to the spectacular Berkeley Castle for the annual Orchestral Christmas Concert. The evening begins with a festive reception in the Long Drawing Room, where guests can enjoy wine, mince pies and seasonal cheer before moving through to the atmospheric Great Hall for the main performance.
Now in its third decade, this cherished event has become a highlight of the Christmas calendar in Gloucestershire. Surrounded by twinkling lights, majestic trees and the grandeur of the Castle, audiences are treated to a beautifully curated programme ranging from Baroque favourites to 20th-century gems, complete with a festive interval.
With soloists Michael Bochmann and George Ewart, and a programme including Boyce, Manfredini’s ‘Christmas Concerto’, Mozart, Ireland, Saint-Saëns, Warlock, Adeste Fideles and Anderson’s Sleigh Ride, the evening promises a heartwarming and memorable musical experience in one of the county’s most iconic settings.
> Orchestral Christmas Concert – More Info
Tewkesbury Town Band’s Christmas Concert at The Roses Theatre
Tewkesbury Town Band performing their Christmas concert at The Roses Theatre.
Join Tewkesbury Town Band for their annual festive concert at The Roses Theatre, right in the heart of their hometown. This much-loved 3rd Section brass band can be seen throughout the year playing in Tewkesbury and the surrounding area, and their Christmas performance is always a highlight.
With a programme packed full of seasonal favourites and brass band classics, audiences can expect an uplifting evening of music and community spirit. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Christmas at The Roses, Tewkesbury’s favourite entertainment venue, which offers a wide variety of performances all year round.
> Tewkesbury Town Band Christmas Concert – More Info
Rotary Club of Cheltenham North Christmas Concert
Rotary Club of Cheltenham North’s Christmas Concert supporting local charities.
Organised by the Rotary Club of Cheltenham North, this festive concert brings the community together for an evening of music and goodwill in aid of local charities. Audiences can enjoy live performances from The Flukes Group, children from Leckhampton Junior School and soloists Imogen Bowen and Harriet Perfect.
With a mix of Christmas songs old and new, along with well-loved carols that capture the warmth and joy of the season, it’s an occasion that appeals to all ages. This heartwarming event is a wonderful way to support great local causes while celebrating Christmas in Cheltenham.
> Rotary Club Christmas Concert – More Info
Dursley Male Voice Choir Christmas Concerts
Dursley Male Voice Choir performing their popular Christmas concerts.
Join one of Gloucestershire’s most enduring choirs, the Dursley Male Voice Choir, for a festive evening filled with classic carols, Christmas favourites and a few delightful surprises. This much-loved annual concert is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy the warmth of seasonal song.
This year’s performances feature talented local soprano Hannah Hughes, a graduate of the Guildhall School of Music and multiple award-winner at the Cheltenham Festival and beyond. Held at the Chantry Centre, the events benefit from a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with a bar open before the concert and during the interval.
Whether you’re a regular supporter of the choir or attending for the first time, these concerts offer a joyful and memorable way to start the Christmas celebrations for music lovers and families alike.
> Dursley Male Voice Choir Christmas Concerts – More Info
Candlelit Christmas Concert in Aid of Vale Wildlife Hospital
Candlelit Christmas Concert at Cheltenham College Chapel supporting Vale Wildlife Hospital.
A magical Candlelit Christmas Concert will take place at Cheltenham College Chapel, with doors opening at 7pm and the performance beginning at 7.30pm. Organised by Dr Charlotte Zoltonos, a local GP and volunteer fundraiser for Vale Wildlife Hospital, this special evening brings together ITV Pride of Britain Regional Finalists for an unforgettable night of festive music and community spirit.
Performances will include the Port of Bristol Shanty Singers and Rhys, the Night Church Pianist – famously known as the “mysterious homeless pianist” whose moving rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody went viral and captured hearts across the world. It’s a unique opportunity to enjoy incredible live music while supporting an essential local charity.
All proceeds from the concert will go directly to Vale Wildlife Hospital, based in Beckford on the Gloucestershire/Worcestershire border. The hospital provides round-the-clock care for over 8,000 wild animals each year and relies entirely on public donations, with monthly running costs exceeding £75,000. Further ticket details will be released soon, with heartfelt thanks extended to the sponsors and supporters making this event possible.
> Candlelit Christmas Concert – More Info
Family Carol Services at Gloucester Cathedral
Family Carol Services at Gloucester Cathedral. Photo courtesy of Maria Butler.
Celebrate precious family time this Christmas with the cherished Family Carol Services at Gloucester Cathedral, among the most beloved events in the Cathedral’s calendar. These services bring together stunning music, traditional readings and festive cheer in the awe-inspiring surroundings of one of Gloucestershire’s most iconic buildings.
No tickets are required, but seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is recommended. It’s a magical way for families to experience Christmas in Gloucester, with children and adults alike welcomed into a warm and joyful atmosphere filled with carols and candlelight.
> Family Carol Services – More Info
The Gruffalo and The Snowman in Concert at Cheltenham Town Hall
The Snowman and The Gruffalo in concert at Cheltenham Town Hall.
Now a regular highlight of Christmas in Cheltenham, the Mozart Symphony Orchestra returns to Cheltenham Town Hall for its annual performance of the timeless classic, The Snowman. The film is shown on the big screen with a live symphony orchestra providing the soundtrack, and 15-year-old Alice Mackenzie sings the famous aria ‘Walking in the Air’.
Following the huge success of The Gruffalo (for narrator and orchestra) in London and Cheltenham last Christmas, it makes a welcome return alongside its sequel, The Gruffalo’s Child. As with Peter and the Wolf, each character in the tale is represented by a different instrument of the orchestra, making it a delightful way for children to discover live music.
This concert is the perfect antidote to panto and a wonderful Christmas treat for all the family. With its magical combination of story, film and live orchestral performance, it’s little wonder this event so often sells out – early booking is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.
(Image © Snowman Enterprises Limited. The Snowman by Raymond Briggs is published by Puffin. The Gruffalo © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 1999. Published by Macmillan Children’s Books. The Gruffalo’s Child © Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler 2004. Published by Macmillan Children’s Books.)
> The Gruffalo And The Snowman In Concert – More Info
Christmas Eve Midnight Mass at Gloucester Cathedral
Christmas Eve Midnight Mass at Gloucester Cathedral. Photo courtesy of Dale Hodgetts.
All are warmly invited to attend Christmas Eve Midnight Mass at Gloucester Cathedral, an atmospheric service marking the start of Christmas Day. Held in the beautifully decorated Nave, this service offers a magical way to embrace the spirit of Christmas with carols, readings and a powerful sense of shared celebration.
No tickets are required to attend, but seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so guests are encouraged to arrive early. For those exploring what’s on this Christmas in Gloucester, Midnight Mass at the Cathedral is a true highlight of the festive calendar.
> Christmas Eve Midnight Mass – More Info
Christmas Day Eucharist at Gloucester Cathedral
Christmas Day Eucharist at Gloucester Cathedral. Photo courtesy of Michael Friend Photography.
All are warmly welcome to join the Christmas Day Eucharist at Gloucester Cathedral, where the community comes together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. This cherished service is ideal for anyone seeking meaningful Christmas events in Gloucester and a chance to mark the day with beautiful music, prayer and reflection.
There are no tickets required, but seating is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving in good time is recommended. For those wondering what’s on this Christmas in Gloucester, the Cathedral promises a beautiful and uplifting service filled with festive joy and a sense of peace.
> Christmas Day Eucharist – More Info
Explore Gloucestershire
18 November 2025
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