Festive family is coming to Westgate Oxford this December, with a packed programme of free character meet-and-greets, musical performances, and Christmas activities running from 06 to 21 December in Leiden Square.
Families will have the chance to meet beloved children’s favourites including Pingu, The Grinch, The Snowman™ & The Snowdog, and many more — all at no cost.
The centre will host the events every weekend from 06 December, with guests required to book free tickets in advance. Ticket links and information will be released ten days before each event weekend, and visitors can sign up to the free PLUS+ membership scheme to receive them directly.
Across each event day, five fully accessible sessions will be available, including one specifically designed to suit children with Special Educational Needs.
The full line-up includes:
- 06 December: The Gruffalo & The Gruffalo’s Child
- 07 December: Pingu
- 13 December: Wallace & Gromit
- 14 December: Elves Behavin’ Badly
- 20 December: The Grinch
- 21 December: The Snowman™ & The Snowdog
Adding even more magic to the Christmas season, Westgate Oxford has launched Hatter’s Hunt, a new Alice in Wonderland-themed trail created in partnership with The Story Museum.
Completely free to complete, the trail invites families to solve clues and uncover five hidden plaques around the centre in exchange for fun prizes. Trail maps are available from the Guest Services Desk.
Visitors shopping over the festive period will also be treated to live music from renowned local choirs, including Queen’s College Acapella Group, Rock Choir, Oxford Gospel Choir, String Fever, and the Oxfordshire Operatic Society.
From 24 November to 24 December, guests can also take advantage of an on-site gift-wrapping service in exchange for a donation to one of Westgate Oxford’s charity partners.
PLUS+ members can enjoy the convenience of PLUS+ Concierge, a complimentary service that stores purchases while guests shop or dine, ready for collection or home delivery.
Brendan Hattam, Centre Director at Westgate Oxford, said:
“The centre truly becomes a magical place during the Christmas season… Westgate Oxford is the ideal family destination this November and December.”
Food lovers can enjoy festive menus at Comptoir Libanais, Mowgli, and Snowflake Gelato, while Victors’ popular heated rooftop igloos return from 17 November.
With more than 100 retailers – from Sephora to John Lewis – plus Christmas pop-ups The Gift Company and The Christmas Store, Westgate Oxford promises a memorable festive day out.
