The University of Warwick is bringing together its students, staff and the local community to celebrate the Spirit of Togetherness this Christmas with a diverse programme of activities, events and shows.

Celebrations kick off next Wednesday (29 November) with a festive Christmas Market and traditional switch on of the 25 ft tall Norway Spruce Christmas Tree lights. Festive tunes will fill the air from Warwick’s award winning Acapella Group, The Leamingtones, and the University Choir. A free twinkling light trail will fill the courtyard behind the piazza providing a quiet slice of festive beauty.  

Celebrations fill December starting with the Warwick Christmas Lectures. In anticipation of each captivating performance, we're inviting the public to complementary interactive live labs, designed to unveil an array of Yuletide wonders. Here, attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with our students as they showcase intriguing exhibits—from the quirky world of fuzzy bacteria to the cutting-edge technology of solar racing cars, and even a superconducting train that levitates. We will also discover whether AI is any good at designing Christmas cards and the links between colour, Chemistry and Christmas.

Emma Flynn, Provost, of the University of Warwick said “We are all aware of what a difficult time it has been for many people both within our community, and the wider population – from the heartbreaking conflict in the Middle East and Ukraine, to the cost-of-living crisis, the last 12 months has been enormously challenging. 

“At a time when there is so much focus on issues and views which divide us, Christmas offers a moment which actively brings us together to spend time with family, friends and colleagues – and enjoy a collective sense of belonging and community. 
 
“At Warwick, we are offering a wonderful programme of festive events to appeal to staff, students and our wider community to come and celebrate the season on campus. We can promise a very warm welcome to everyone and offer something to suit all ages.”  

There’s fun for all ages with performances of The GruffaloLink opens in a new window in Warwick Arts Centre’s Theatre throughout the festive season. Before each performance there’s a free activity in the magical woodland foyer where you can make your own creature-inspired Christmas bauble or dress up in a woodland disguise to become a snake or a mysterious mossy being.

For those feeling daunted by the Christmas frenzy, scientists will unlock the biology of stress in a free lecture on 5th December free lecture on 5th December,Link opens in a new window giving you tips on how to have a stress free one. There’s also a free mindfulnessLink opens in a new window session or relaxed yoga in the Mead galleryLink opens in a new window to help soothe the soul.

Frazzled parents can bring little ones to a free musical picnicLink opens in a new window and enjoy a wintry walk around the sculpture trailLink opens in a new window afterwards. Festive cheer will fill the air as David O’Doherty leads a comedy showcaseLink opens in a new window and Vir DasLink opens in a new window wows with his stand-up.

Music lovers can enjoy the premiere of a winter musical fantasia from The UnthanksLink opens in a new window as well as spectacular well known Christmas classical music from the HalleLink opens in a new window, the Symphony Orchestra of IndiaLink opens in a new window , folk music from The Young’unsLink opens in a new window and an uplifting Gospel ChristmasLink opens in a new window concert.  

A seasonal makers marketLink opens in a new window will fill the Arts Centre Foyer on 6^th December with an array of affordable sustainable present ideas to browse. Seasonal fayre will be available across campus ranging from gingerbread lattes to Christmas cookies, with Rootes Grocery Store selling snacks, including pigs under blankets toasties, brie & cranberry turnovers and chocolate yule cake. BenugoLink opens in a new window is offering a special Christmas menu providing a relaxing opportunity to catch up with friends and loved ones as the season unfolds.

Finally, people can beat the January blues at pantomime performances of Dick WhittingtonLink opens in a new window by local theatre group Three Spires Guildhall and the continuing run of the new Wonka filmLink opens in a new window.

For a full roundup of seasonal fun visit explore the Christmas-related events and activities taking place on campusLink opens in a new window hereLink opens in a new window or look at the Warwick Arts Centre WebsiteLink opens in a new window.