For those of you remaining in Reading this Christmas holiday (as I am), you may wish to see what Reading has to offer in terms of festive events and places to visit. There are many activities you can attempt and take part in during this break, which I will list here to give you some inspiration.
Reading Christmas Market
If you haven’t already, visit the Broad Street Christmas Market in the town centre (which you can get to using the University bus, the Claret 21 towards the train station), where there are plenty of decorations as well as market stalls with festive items and food. Visiting in the evening, after it becomes dark, means you can view the sparkling lights and you can really feel the Christmas atmosphere. On top of this, there are plenty of stores, cafes, restaurants etc. as well as the Oracle shopping centre, many of which sell festive items (such as clothes, accessories, decorations) and food/drink (mince pies, gingerbread coffees etc.).
Reading Winter Wonderland
Held annually, the Reading Winter Wonderland has plenty of fun and festive events, such as ice skating, visiting Santas Grotto and attractions (plenty of rides). They also serve plenty of delicious festive food for those that have booked tickets.
Christmas Theatre
The ‘Cinderella Christmas Pantomime’ is playing at the Imagine Theatre in Reading. At the Reading Rep Theatre, they are performing ‘The Snow Queen’ this holiday. For these events, you can book tickets now and visit with some of your friends for a fun evening out.
Reading Libraries Christmas Events
With various dates and locations, the Libraries in Reading hold fun small events where you can meet others and learn new things such as making crafts. To find more information for the times and dates.
Trying Out Christmas/Winter Menus
To get into the festive spirit, many caffes, restaurants and even fast food chains have limited special edition Christmas items. This can include things like mince pies, gingerbread men, festive coffees/hot chocolate, anything with Turkey & cranberry sauce, things filled with cooked veggies (like brussel sprouts) etc. If you’re a foodie and like to try a variety of fun foods that feel Christmassy, this is the perfect excuse to try new things. If you want, you can even find a friend to create some new Christmas memories.
Admiring Christmas Decorations
Something simple you can do is taking a walk at the evening or night (preferably with a friend for safety) and view all the Christmas decorations people have put up. Many houses may be adorned with colourful bright lights and decorations such as reindeer, plastic snowmen, Christmas trees and wreaths etc.. The cold night air will make you feel the Winter vibe, even if it’s not snowing, and walking while taking in fresh air will be good for your health too.
If you want to feel the festive spirit this winter break and are still staying in Reading, hopefully this list gives you some idea of some activities you can take part in, either alone or with friends. If you want to try some more things, places such as the Reading cinema or any theatre in Reading (as mentioned above) may have something to your liking – as well as being a fun day out where you can also visit nearby shops while feeling the festive atmosphere around town.
Make a list or simple itinerary of things you’d like to do and visit this Christmas break. If you wish, you can get a friend to come along with you to create some new festive memories in Reading.