Christmas isn't here yet, but November has arrived and brings plenty of events and activities to start getting you into the festive spirit!
If you aren't ready to think about Christmas just yet, there's plenty of non-festive events and activities too, including live music, pub quizzes, art exhibitions, and so much more. Here are some highlights!
Gloucester Lantern Parade
14 November, Across the city

The Gloucester Lantern Parade returns, starring maritime inspired magical lantern creations by local schools and community groups! Enjoy a carol service at the Cathedral from 4pm, followed by the Lantern Parade, starting at College Green at 4:50pm. The parade features maritime themed lanterns, looking ahead to the 200th anniversary of the Gloucester Docks in 2027. The procession will be illuminating the City Centre as it moves through the gate streets, around Kings Square and finishing at the Museum of Gloucester.
Tree of Light Switch On
14 November, Kings Square
A programme of music and entertainment, hosted by BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Jon Smith, including The Salvation Army Band and more! The light switch on will be at 5:45pm, with music and entertainment continuing until 6:30pm.
Pop Culture Quiz
3 November, Hop Kettle
Do you want to monetize all that pointless pop culture trivia about movies, TV, games and books? Then this is the quiz for you! When? Tuesday November 3. What time? Doors at 6pm, Quiz at 7pm. Where? Hop Kettle, Gloucester Food Dock. Booking is encouraged as spaces are limited!
Decorative Lantern Workshop
7 November, Museum of Gloucester
Join artist Claire Taylor Jones for a joyful, hands on Decorated Lantern workshop, creating glowing lanterns to light up the Lantern parade! This creative session invites you to design and decorate your own parade ready lantern where Claire will guide you through simple techniques, share inspiration, and help bring your ideas to life - no experience needed.
Devon
7 November, Gloucester Guildhall
Forest of Dean's Devon returns to Gloucester to headline Gloucester Guildhall for the very first time. This will be Devon's debut headline show at Gloucester Guildhall, having previously supported White Lies and Circa Waves at the venue. After headlining the stunning Blackfriars stage as part of Underground Festival 2026, Gloucester Guildhall are thrilled to welcome Devon back to Gloucester, for this very special hometown show.
Christmas Markets
Every Weekend, Gloucester Quays
The Christmas Markets return this year with a fabulous range of festive gifts, locally produced foodie products, delicious street food and pop-up bars. Located across Gloucester Quays and the historic docks, over 120 traders will showcase the very best craft, gifts and food from the Southwest region for you to experience and enjoy.
The Social Sofa Project – Patch Making Workshop
14 November, Museum of Gloucester
Head to the Museum of Gloucester and join the creation of a public art piece celebrating the people of Gloucester and the community, created by local artist LJ Ellam in their new project 'The Social Sofa Project'. The Social Sofa Project aims to have illustrations, embroidered patches or knitted and crocheted pieces, and to take these onto furniture.
Rabbit & Rey
15 November, Gloucester Guildhall
Ever felt like the world is playing hide and seek with your stuff? One moment it's there... the next, pooff! Your toy, your glasses, your book, your sock... even your ideas, gone. From the makers of smash hit 'The Gingerbread Man', this bold, funny and heart-tugging adventure mixes puppetry, visual storytelling and beautiful twists of the imagination, to explore our brilliant, often bewildering brains and what it means to live life a little out of order.
Open Air Ice Rink
20 November – 3 January, Gloucester Quays
Wrap up warm and make a date to join family and friends at our amazing Outdoor Ice Rink. Make magical memories on a family day out with the kids at Gloucester Quays. Their Outdoor Ice Rink is the perfect setting to host your winter event, work get-together, or group party. And if skating is not for you, then grab a cup of hot chocolate and take in the fun of the outdoor spectacle.
Christmas at the Movies
26 November, Gloucester Cathedral
Christmas at the Movies is a spectacular live concert experience that brings the most beloved festive film scores to life, performed by The Great British Film Orchestra. From the heartwarming charm of Home Alone and Love Actually, to the timeless beauty of The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol, feel the excitement of The Polar Express, the fantasy of Harry Potter, the joy of Elf, and many more cinematic classics - all reimagined in a breathtaking chamber orchestral performance.
Christmas Revels
28 – 29 November, St Mary DeCrypt
The mayhem returns... 2-day market, fun, entertainment, parade and chaos!! Music from Stroud Samba, Andy Saw, Wild-Eyes, Wicked and Obvious, with Azzia Belly Dancers, Morris Dancing, Tue Duelling, Teapot Racing, Craft Workshops, Armoured Combat Display, and the Christmas Saunter through town with traditional wassailing!
For a full list of what's on in November, click HERE!
Make sure to tage us in any photos using #visitgloucester 📸
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