One of Swindon’s most-loved festive events is set to make a sparkling return later this month, as the Old Town Christmas Festival takes over Wood Street and Victoria Road on Sunday 23 November.
Running from 12pm to 6pm, the streets will once again be transformed into a cosy winter market, complete with seasonal food, gift stalls, live music and entertainment from some of the town’s brightest performers.
This year’s headline act brings things close to home, with Swindon-born singer-songwriter Josh Kumra topping the bill. Kumra shot to national attention after co-writing and singing on Wretch 32’s chart-topping hit Don’t Go, and his return to Old Town is expected to be one of the festival’s standout moments.
A packed line-up of community performers will take to the stage throughout the afternoon, including the Pauline Quirke Academy Swindon—marking their tenth anniversary—alongside dancers from JP Studios, world-level tap talent Gabe Hyde, performers from the South Asian Performing Arts Centre, vocalist Fran Daisy, students from The Croft Primary School, Country Rock and pop singer Andrew Grindrod, Abbey Park Dance Academy and JHS Dance.
Festival-goers can soak up the atmosphere with mulled wine, hot chocolate, street food and festive treats, while browsing crafts and gifts from local traders. Steven Hill’s fun fair will also make a welcome return to Wood Street.
Organised by the Old Town Business Association (OTBA) in partnership with South Swindon Parish Council, the event is supported by sponsors including Los Gatos, Deacons, Domino’s Old Town, Charles Harding, The Kings and Sinewave.
Wood Street and Victoria Road will be fully closed to traffic on the day, creating a safe, pedestrian-friendly setting ideal for families.
A voluntary ticket donation of £1.85 per person (£2 on the door) helps fund the festival and keep it running in future years. With capacity capped at 4,200, organisers recommend arriving early—once numbers rise, only those with advance tickets will be allowed in.
James Macdonald, Vice-Chairman of the OTBA, said:
“At the heart of the Old Town Christmas Festival is the ethos of community, family and celebration. Local businesses and residents come together for an amazing festive experience that has become a cornerstone of Swindon’s Christmas season.”
Chairman Kris Talikowski added:
“If the event keeps growing at this pace, we’ll have to find a way to expand beyond Victoria Road. Early discussions with Councillor Chris Watts are already exploring how we could make that possible in future years.”
Tickets and updates are available at thisisoldtown.com.
