University of Reading to switch on festive lights at Winter Festival

The nights really are drawing in, the weather outside has been frightful, but the University of Reading is preparing to show that there really is a place to go as it prepares for the return of its Winter Festival.

The event, which has become an annual tradition, takes place on its Whiteknights Campus and it is open to everyone: students, staff and the wider community.

It is full of festive fun and starts at 5.30pm on Thursday, November 28. It will end at 8pm.

It includes entertainment, music, singing, food and drink, activities, stalls and a winter market.

Places have to be booked in advance, but they are free.

To reserve a space and find out more, log on to: https://www.reading.ac.uk/events/Feed/2024/December/Winter-Festival

What you can expect at the University of Reading’s Winter Festival

The event starts with the opening of festive market which will be held in the Students’ Union 3Sixty venue.

There will be a mixture of stalls selling gifts, and university student societies offering free activities to try your hand at.

The University’s Concert Band will play some seasonal songs from 5.45pm. This takes place outside the Dol.che Vita Café Bar on the ground floor of the Palmer Building.

They will perform again at 6.45pm.

The University’s Christmas lights will be switched on at 6.15pm.

Those wanting to observe the spectacle can head to the Palmer Quad, and while there listen to some speeches and take part in some carol singing.

From 7pm, the event will take place in 3Sixty, with a jazz band performing while people browse the stalls.

Throughout the evening, the University of Reading’s team will ensure the stalls serving hot food and drink will keep the seasonal refreshments available. Venues include the numerous cafes on campus as well as the food market stalls.

The event is described by some as one of their favourite evenings of the year.

For more information email: events@reading.ac.uk