Christmas Events In Brighton 2026

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By Kiera Chapman Editor Food, drink and nightlife specialist with 8+ years in journalism, including bylines at The Sunday Times and Marie Claire. Last updated on 11th September 2026

Ho-ho-how is it already the yuletide season? Luckily, this seaside hotspot has plenty of quirky shindigs on offer, including famous markets in St Peter's Plaza and Richmond Square, as well as The Lanes, hitting the ice at the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink, and more.

Whether you fancy rocking around a Christmas tree on a karaoke bottomless brunch or sipping mulled wine with 360-degree views of the city, our guide to Christmas in Brighton 2026 has plenty of gifts for you.

Our Guide To Brighton Christmas Ideas 2026




Brighton Fun Puzzle Treasure Hunt!

@ Brighton Train Station on Various dates from Tuesday 22nd September 2026

  • Location: Brighton Railway Station, Brighton, BN1 3XP
  • When: every day 
  • Price: from £19.99 for two 
  • Why we recommend: if you're after a Brighton adventure with a twist, The Great Game Treasure Hunt is our top pick for a day out that's all about festive fun and discovery. You'll be cracking clues, following maps, and uncovering the city's secrets one puzzle at a time

A great way to see the Christmas lights in Brighton for 2026 is to attend the Fun Puzzle treasure Hunt. This quest will take you all over the city looking for clues, ending up at a fantastic pub where you will receive a discount on your bill for all your hard work.

Perfect for friends, couples, families, or team-building days, it's the ultimate mix of exploration, competition, and a well-earned pint at the end. Whether you opt for a posted pack or a digital one, grab your compass and your sense of adventure, as Brighton's treasures are waiting to be found this winter.

Alcotraz Brighton: Cell Block One-Three

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Brighton on Various dates from Tuesday 22nd September 2026

  • Location: 13 Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 1NE
  • When: December 2026
  • Price: from £31.06 per person
  • Why we recommend: we feel like this is a great pick if you're looking for something a little bit different to do this Christmas with your mates. You're guaranteed a lot of laughs, some sneaky side quests, and delicious cocktails

Should you find yourself on Santa's naughty list this Christmas, you may want to head down to Brighton's immersive seafront bar - Alcotraz: Cell Block One-Three. At this prison-themed watering hole, you'll need to befriend crooked guards to enjoy a night of bespoke cocktails made from smuggled contraband.

It's perfect for groups looking to enjoy some theatrical entertainment this winter - you'll don your own orange jumpsuit and get caught up in a captivating storyline.

Glow Wild At Wakehurst

  • Location: Ardingly, Haywards Heath, Sussex, RH17 6TN
  • When: 27th November 2025 - 3rd January 2026
  • Price: from £13.50 (under 4s go free)
  • Why we recommend: if you're looking for a magical winter experience near Brighton, Glow Wild at Wakehurst is a must

Just a short trip from the city (around 30-50 minutes), Wakehurst's stunning gardens are transformed into a glowing wonderland for the festive season. Wander along a woodland trail filled with dazzling lanterns, illuminated sculptures, and spellbinding light installations, all brought to life by international artists. This year's trail promises brand-new, never-before-seen artworks, from giant mythical sea creatures to reimagined woodland wildlife, each telling a story where nature and imagination intertwine.

As you explore, let the mesmerising soundscape guide you through glowing glades and shimmering lakes before finishing your evening with a festive feast beneath Wakehurst's grand Christmas tree. Whether you're coming as a couple, a family, or with friends, if you're looking for Christmas events near Haywards Heath, then it's a spectacular night out that captures magic in the great outdoors.

Cheese Fondue In Brighton

  • Location: Zizzi, Las Iguanas, and Thewitchez
  • When: all winter long
  • Price: varies by venue
  • Why we recommend: we love indulging in winter comfort with a bubbling pot of molten cheese shared with our favourite people

As the chill sets in, Brighton's fondue scene is heating up, and this year, it's all about gooey, golden goodness served with a side of cosy vibes. From Italian indulgence to spicy South American twists, the city's restaurants are getting seriously cheesy (and we're here for it).

At Zizzi, dive into a decadent fondue sharing board featuring garlic bread, mozzarella arancini, courgetti fritti, and pesto crostini - the ultimate warm-up before an Italian feast of pizza, pasta, or tiramisu. Over at Thewitchez, fondue takes on a more authentic feel: pre-order your pot and enjoy it with pickled vegetables, fresh bread, and a glass of wine each for the full Swiss experience. And if you're craving a little spice, Las Iguanas' Cheesy Peru Fondue blends chipotle heat with creamy cheese sauce and crispy potatoes for a fiery twist on the classic.

Royal Pavilion

  • Location: 4-5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, BN1 1EE
  • When: 21st November 2026 – 10th January 2027
  • Price: Included with Royal Pavilion admission (from £21.50 per adult, £13 per child; family passes from £31.25)
  • Why we recommend: this enchanting winter takeover lets families experience George IV's seaside palace dressed in spellbinding, folklore-inspired festive magic

With the open-air ice rink taking a hiatus this year, the iconic Royal Pavilion is moving the winter magic indoors for a brand-new Christmas spectacle. A Fairytale of Frost and Fire transforms the palace's opulent staterooms into an enchanting world of myth, drama, and festive wonder.

Moving beneath glittering chandeliers, you'll encounter dramatic seasonal installations that contrast icy winter landscapes with glowing, crackling hearths. Expect lavishly decorated trees, immersive storytelling, and theatrical displays bringing European folklore to life within George IV's legendary Chinoiserie and Indo-Islamic interiors. Afterwards, round off the experience with a warm drink or festive treat at the palace tearoom.

Coppa Club Brighton's Igloos

  • Location: Coppa Club, 12–15 Brighton Square, Brighton, BN1 1HD
  • When: 18th November 2025 - 31st March 2026
  • Price: from £38.50 per person (two courses) or £44.50 (three courses)
  • Why we recommend: you can really experience the winter magic with your friends here by dining under twinkling fairy lights in your own private igloo

This festive season, Coppa Club Brighton is transforming its terrace into a dreamy winter wonderland with its famous igloos, featuring plush, candlelit pods draped in evergreen foliage and soft blankets, perfect for cosy catch-ups, festive feasts, and Christmas cocktails in style.

Each igloo comfortably fits up to eight people, making it the ideal spot for intimate gatherings or office celebrations. On the menu? A mouthwatering two or three-course Christmas feast packed with seasonal flavours, with hot Wye smoked salmon with lemon and black pepper crème fraîche, followed by succulent roast turkey breast with all the trimmings.