More than 5,000 people flocked to Swindon’s Town Gardens this December as a free festive event brought colour, music and family fun to the heart of Old Town.
Christmas in the Town Gardens, delivered by South Swindon Parish Council, took place across four afternoons on 13, 14, 20 and 21 December, transforming the historic gardens into a lively seasonal hub. Spread across two weekends, the event offered live entertainment, creative activities and festive attractions, all without the need for tickets or entry fees.
Families and visitors of all ages praised the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with many highlighting the range of activities on offer and the chance to enjoy a Christmas event that was fully accessible.
The programme placed a strong focus on local talent, with performances on the Town Gardens Bandstand from community and cultural groups including Swindon Hindu Temple and Cultural Centre, Swindon’s Ukrainian Choir, Emily’s Dance Academy and Wroughton Silver Band. Throughout the afternoons, visitors could also enjoy food from a selection of popular local traders, including ZapiekJanki, Hungry ‘n’ Thirsty, SoulFlava and ZuDuzo Kitchen, serving a mix of international street food.
Children were kept busy with a packed schedule of activities at Santa’s Craft Corner, alongside free face painting, glitter art, festive character visits and interactive workshops. Performers and creative groups such as The Magical Character Company, Stilt Walkers UK, Swindon Circus and Outdoor Arts Project, The Bubble Master and Swindon Story Shed added to the sense of fun across the gardens.
One of the standout features for many visitors was the immersive experience created through large-scale installations. Towering interactive figures by Air Giants and the Magical Lantern Forest by Swindon Culture Collective brought the gardens to life, particularly as daylight faded.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on the friendly feel of the event, the quality of performances and the opportunity for families to spend time together in a familiar local setting. The event also gave local performers, creatives and businesses valuable exposure during the busy festive period.
Councillor John Firmin, Vice-Chair of South Swindon Parish Council’s Leisure, Environment and Amenities Committee, said:
“We decided to try something different in the Town Gardens this Christmas and it was great to see all four days so well supported and enjoyed by lots of our residents. Thank you to the Parish Events Team and all our partners who made these experiences possible. The children’s activities were all very popular and the entertainment was a wonderful mix that everyone could enjoy.”
South Swindon Parish Council has thanked performers, partners, volunteers and visitors for helping make Christmas in the Town Gardens such a memorable success.
