Medway at Christmas: From festive markets, Dickensian events, pantomimes and carol concerts

If you fancy getting into the Christmas spirit, there are plenty of ways to start making the most of the celebrations.

We’ve rounded up a number of festive events taking place throughout Medway during December for children, families and adults to enjoy.

Rochester Christmas Market

The annual market has returned to the grounds of Rochester Castle.

Running over three consecutive weekends – the last of which is Saturday, December 9 and Sunday, December 10 it is the ideal place to find presents and stocking fillers.

Alongside many craft and trade stalls are food and drink huts serving mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.

It is free to enter and you don’t need to book.

Dates: Saturday, November 25 until Sunday, December 10.

Children's Christmas Village

New for 2023, this activity is hidden within the Rochester Christmas Market.

Hear festive stories in Mrs Claus' snug, create your own decorations in the Elves' workshop and don’t forget to decorate a sweet treat to take home.

Entry is £10 per child (aged four to 11) and adults do not need a ticket. There must be at least one, but no more than two adults for every entry.

Click here to book.

Dates: Saturday, November 25 to Sunday, December 10.

Intra Christmas Bauble Hunt

Celebrate the season with the small businesses and creative community found where Chatham and Rochester High Street meet.

Embark on a free festive trail and win £100 to spend in an Intra restaurant of your choice.

Entry forms can be collected from the Gillingham Street Angels Café and hunt for baubles hidden in windows from Star Hill to Sun Pier.

Vote for the best-dressed shop display and the winner also gets £100!

Dates: Friday, December 1 to Saturday, December 23.

Mission Christmas: The Clausometer Catastrophe

Take a peek behind the scenes and discover how Santa manages to deliver his presents in this festive experience.

The family-friendly event made its debut last year and has returned once again to The Historic Dockyard Chatham.

You're invited to step into the secret world and help Mrs Claus save Christmas from catastrophe.

Click here to book. Three dedicated quiet sessions have been adapted for visitors with additional needs.

Dates: Saturday, November 25 to Sunday, December 24.

Storytelling with Victorian Father Christmas

The original Claus will be coming to Eastgate House this year.

He will be telling a story about the mice who live in the historic building and will be draped in green robes – his head topped with a traditional festive garland.

It is £6 for adults and £4 for children.

Ticket holders can also explore the rest of the house afterwards.

Dates: Monday, December 18 to Saturday, December 23.

Aladdin Pantomime

Christmas is not the same without a fairytale panto production at The Central Theatre.

EastEnders actor Delroy Atkinson will be joining CBBC’s Dumping Ground star William Wyn Davies when the curtain raises for Aladdin.

Can the Genie fulfil all their wishes?

The show promises live music, colourful costumes, amazing sets and stunning special effects. To find out more click here.

Dates: Friday, December 8 to Sunday, December 31.

Christmas Carol Concert

Have a festive sing-along at Rochester Cathedral's musical event.

As well as performances from the choir, there will also be a chance for everyone to join in with popular carols.

Tickets are between £10 and £35, plus a booking fee. To find out more click here.

Please note the concert is earlier than previous years and will begin at 5pm.

Date: Saturday, December 16.

Candlelight Christmas Love Concert

Listen to the music of Love Actually, Home Alone and more at the Rochester Corn Exchange under the gentle glow of candlelight.

This event was created by entertainment discovery platform Fever and will be performed by local musicians – all illuminated by thousands of candles.

Tickets start from £20. Click here to book.

Date: Tuesday, December 19.