Step back in time at Warwick’s Victorian Evening

Experience the sights, sounds and smells of a Victorian Christmas, as Warwick's much loved Victorian Evening returns to the town on Thursday 24 November 2022.

The event starts from 12pm in the Market Square and surrounding streets with a Victorian market, which proved a popular addition in 2021. The era-themed rides start from 3pm just in time for the kids finishing school, with the main event starting at 5pm. The lights will be switched on at 7pm.

Visitors can browse the Victorian Christmas Market with crafts, gift ideas and community stalls with some traders in traditional costume. The whole family will be entertained with various fairground rides, amusements and street entertainers whilst enjoying the festive food and drink. And, in keeping with tradition, the Christmas Tree Festival will be taking place in St Mary's Church.

A procession of members of the Warwick Court Leet will make its way to Market Square where the Mayor of Warwick, Councillor Parminder Singh Birdi, will turn on the lights along with Commonwealth Games boxing gold medallist Lewis Williams. 

Visitors are also encouraged to get into the nineteenth century spirit with the annual competition for the best dressed Victorian, with the winners in both the adult and child categories being announced on stage at 7.30pm. Prizes include an Annual Family Pass to Warwick Castle, meal vouchers for The Globe and tickets to a race at Warwick Racecourse for the 2022/2023 racing season. 

Councillor Liam Bartlett, Portfolio Holder for Place, Arts & Economy, said: "The Victorian Evening is a staple event in Warwick's calendar which brings thousands of people into the town. It provides a great atmosphere, helps to promote the local businesses, and kicks off the festive season in true Victorian style!

"I would encourage everyone to arrive in plenty of time and where possible to walk, cycle or hop on the bus or train. We look forward to welcoming you and kickstarting the festive celebrations in Warwick."

Councillor Parminder Singh Birdi, Mayor of Warwick, said: "Victorian Evening in Warwick marks the beginning of the joyful Christmas festive season, and protects the vitality and viability of our town centre by showcasing independent shops, pubs and restaurants in the town. I look forward to seeing many residents and visitors enjoying their time in Warwick."

Jamie John Walker, Company Director of CJ's Events Warwickshire Limited, added: "We are delighted to be involved with such a prestigious event in the town's calendar. It helps to bring Warwick together in celebration of the Christmas season and brings substantial footfall to the town.  "Traders and many visitors are always keen to participate in wearing Victorian attire, to bring the theme to life. We love being involved with the organisation of the event and helping deliver this truly magical spectacle, to a truly magnificent town."

Sue Butcher, Chair of Warwick Chamber of Trade said: "We are really looking forward to the Victorian Evening which is a great start to our Christmas in Warwick, and a showcase for our fantastic independent businesses."

Notes to editors

• Event photos: © S Miners Photos
• Full details of what's on and where: 
  • Market Place – Main event area with stage, ride and entertainers.
  • Brook Street – Fire Spinner shows: at 6.45pm and 8pm. Punch & Judy shows at: 5.30pm and 7.15pm
  • Surrounding Streets – Stalls, rides and entertainers.
  • St Mary's Church – Christmas Tree Display of over 50 trees and short Carol Service.
  • Market Hall Museum – Craft Market, kids craft activities, outdoor café selling mince pies and mulled wine.
• Acts and Rides
  • Walkabout entertainment: Fire Spinner, Stilt Walker, Victorian gentleman on a Penny Farthing, Punch and Judy, Mid-Victorian Society
  • Rides: Mini Steam Train, Penny Arcade, two Fairground Organs, Ferris Wheel, Galloper, Chair O'Planes, Striker Game, Helter Skelter, Hook a Duck.
  • Stage Acts: Ayelsford School Choir, Royal Spa Brass Band, St Mary's Church Choir, plus singer Andi Wolf and Warwick School of Dance.