Guide

Festival Place, Where Christmas Comes to Life!

This year, Festival Place is bringing Christmas magic to Basingstoke with six weekends of free family fun, live entertainment, creative activities and festive surprises throughout November and December.

The celebrations begin on Saturday 14th November with our Christmas Launch Weekend, a day packed with festive fun, memorable experiences and plenty of Christmas cheer for the whole family.

Saturday 14th November – Christmas Launch Weekend

Join us as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place, with a fantastic line-up of free activities and entertainment:

- Nuts for Nutcrackers – get creative in a festive craft workshop and make your own Christmas creation to take home.
- Meet the Grinch – expect plenty of mischief, laughter and festive fun from everyone's favourite green Christmas troublemaker.
- Tinseltastic Breakdancers – enjoy high-energy festive performances, impressive moves and plenty of Christmas sparkle.
- Free Face Painting – little ones can get into the festive spirit with colourful Christmas-inspired designs.
- Makers Market – browse a wonderful selection of handmade creations and unique finds at the Makers Market in the Creative Emporium on the Upper Level.
- Christmas Choir Performances – enjoy the sounds of the season with VoxFresh performing at 11am, followed by Sing Now Choir at 2pm and 3pm.

And the magic doesn't stop there! Every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas brings something new for families to enjoy.

Saturday 21st November

- Letter Writing to Santa – little ones can put their Christmas wishes into words and create a special letter for Father Christmas.
- Nutcracker Brass Band – enjoy the sounds of the season as festive favourites fill Festival Place.

Saturday 28th November

- Snowy Suncatchers – a winter-inspired craft workshop full of colour, sparkle and creativity.
- Joyful Jugglers – festive entertainment and impressive juggling skills guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Saturday 5th December

- Bauble Blitz – get crafty and create your very own festive bauble to take home.
- Merry Tumblers – exciting acrobatics and tumbling performances bringing plenty of energy and Christmas cheer.

Saturday 12th December

- Christmas Cookie Decorating – get hands-on with a delicious festive workshop and decorate your very own Christmas cookie.
- Tinsel Breakdancers – our energetic breakdancers return with even more festive moves and Christmas spirit.

Saturday 19th December

- Penguin Puppets – meet our adorable penguin puppets and enjoy a little extra Christmas magic.
- Wish Collector – share your Christmas wishes and enjoy a magical festive encounter in the final countdown to the big day.

Even More Christmas Magic

There's plenty more to enjoy throughout the festive season! Local choirs will be filling Festival Place with the familiar sounds of Christmas, while the FP Express Train will be running throughout the festive period, adding another magical experience for little ones and families to enjoy together.

All six Saturdays feature free family activities and entertainment from 11am–4pm.

So gather your loved ones, tick off a few Christmas presents and join us for six Saturdays of festive fun as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place!

Plan your festive visit: [https://www.festivalplace.co.uk](https://www.festivalplace.co.uk)

**YOUTH MUSICAL TALENT NIGHT**

Featuring: Peter Charlton, Mya, Harry Pearce
with sound & lighting by Alfie@nixonevents

Bar & soft drinks bar

Don't miss a great night out showcasing local youth music talent & helping to raise money for a village youth club!

Get ready for a night of ABBA classics as BJÖRN This Way, formerly known as ABBA Chique, head to the Stute on Saturday 14 November!

Performing since 2009, BJÖRN This Way are an established professional ABBA tribute band, bringing the sound, energy and spectacle of ABBA to life with powerful vocals, brilliant musicians, authentic costumes and a proper live show.

Expect all the big ABBA favourites and a night of dancing, singing and plenty of “Thank You for the Music”!

Join the fun every Sunday from 4pm at The Red Lion for Meats & Beats! Enjoy the weekly meat draw, followed by a fun-filled game of Beat the Intro, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you know your music inside out or fancy testing your luck, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends, a few drinks and plenty of laughs. With prizes kindly provided by Geoff Aubrey & Sons Family Butchers, Oakley, there’s plenty to play for. Come along, get involved and make Sundays at The Red Lion your new favourite tradition!

Meet each Sunday morning at St. Luke’s Hall at 10.30 a.m.

Meets each Monday at the Overton Recreation Ground in Bridge Street at 9.45 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. for a choice of short (2.5 miles) or a longer walk.  Refreshments afterwards.

For 8-10 and a half year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For the lonely, elderly, frail, or with dementia (but self-sufficient).

Self directed.

For ages 7 to 10 and a half.

For ages 10 and a half to 14.

For those who are semi or fully retired, to meet and make new friends who share the same interests. Meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at 10.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton from 15^th September to 15^th June.  There are also around 30 special interest groups meeting regularly.

For 6-8 year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For 10 and a half to 14 year olds.

Parent/Toddler group – Thursday mornings from 10.00 a.m. until 11.30 at the Town Meadow Hut.

All welcome each Thursday morning at 10.30 a.m. until 11.45 at the White Hart. Buy a drink and have a chat with others in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Every Thursday from 11.00 a.m. until 1.00 pm in St. Mary’s Church rooms (behind the church) during school term times.  Bring your own materials:- paint/ knit/ sew/ draw etc, create in a social atmosphere. Free of charge, Refreshments provided with suggested donation to church funds.  Contact Mo Hilton 01256 770886 or email

Ages 5-7 years.

For 7-10.5 year olds.

Meets at St. Mary’s Hall on Thursdays from 8.00 pm until 10.00 pm. Call Teresa 01256 770248 or just turn up.

For 14-18 year olds.

For pre-schoolers and their parents/carers during Term Time

Guests will have the opportunity to paint their own platter while enjoying a selection of charcuterie boards prepared by Thread and Toast.

The collaboration aims to bring people together for a relaxed and creative evening, giving attendees the chance to try something different while supporting two local businesses.

The incredible Batteries Not Included return to the Red Lion on Friday 20th November!

Festival Place, Where Christmas Comes to Life!

This year, Festival Place is bringing Christmas magic to Basingstoke with six weekends of free family fun, live entertainment, creative activities and festive surprises throughout November and December.

The celebrations begin on Saturday 14th November with our Christmas Launch Weekend, a day packed with festive fun, memorable experiences and plenty of Christmas cheer for the whole family.

Saturday 14th November – Christmas Launch Weekend

Join us as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place, with a fantastic line-up of free activities and entertainment:

- Nuts for Nutcrackers – get creative in a festive craft workshop and make your own Christmas creation to take home.
- Meet the Grinch – expect plenty of mischief, laughter and festive fun from everyone's favourite green Christmas troublemaker.
- Tinseltastic Breakdancers – enjoy high-energy festive performances, impressive moves and plenty of Christmas sparkle.
- Free Face Painting – little ones can get into the festive spirit with colourful Christmas-inspired designs.
- Makers Market – browse a wonderful selection of handmade creations and unique finds at the Makers Market in the Creative Emporium on the Upper Level.
- Christmas Choir Performances – enjoy the sounds of the season with VoxFresh performing at 11am, followed by Sing Now Choir at 2pm and 3pm.

And the magic doesn't stop there! Every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas brings something new for families to enjoy.

Saturday 21st November

- Letter Writing to Santa – little ones can put their Christmas wishes into words and create a special letter for Father Christmas.
- Nutcracker Brass Band – enjoy the sounds of the season as festive favourites fill Festival Place.

Saturday 28th November

- Snowy Suncatchers – a winter-inspired craft workshop full of colour, sparkle and creativity.
- Joyful Jugglers – festive entertainment and impressive juggling skills guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Saturday 5th December

- Bauble Blitz – get crafty and create your very own festive bauble to take home.
- Merry Tumblers – exciting acrobatics and tumbling performances bringing plenty of energy and Christmas cheer.

Saturday 12th December

- Christmas Cookie Decorating – get hands-on with a delicious festive workshop and decorate your very own Christmas cookie.
- Tinsel Breakdancers – our energetic breakdancers return with even more festive moves and Christmas spirit.

Saturday 19th December

- Penguin Puppets – meet our adorable penguin puppets and enjoy a little extra Christmas magic.
- Wish Collector – share your Christmas wishes and enjoy a magical festive encounter in the final countdown to the big day.

Even More Christmas Magic

There's plenty more to enjoy throughout the festive season! Local choirs will be filling Festival Place with the familiar sounds of Christmas, while the FP Express Train will be running throughout the festive period, adding another magical experience for little ones and families to enjoy together.

All six Saturdays feature free family activities and entertainment from 11am–4pm.

So gather your loved ones, tick off a few Christmas presents and join us for six Saturdays of festive fun as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place!

Plan your festive visit: [https://www.festivalplace.co.uk](https://www.festivalplace.co.uk)

Join the fun every Sunday from 4pm at The Red Lion for Meats & Beats! Enjoy the weekly meat draw, followed by a fun-filled game of Beat the Intro, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you know your music inside out or fancy testing your luck, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends, a few drinks and plenty of laughs. With prizes kindly provided by Geoff Aubrey & Sons Family Butchers, Oakley, there’s plenty to play for. Come along, get involved and make Sundays at The Red Lion your new favourite tradition!

Meet each Sunday morning at St. Luke’s Hall at 10.30 a.m.

Meets each Monday at the Overton Recreation Ground in Bridge Street at 9.45 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. for a choice of short (2.5 miles) or a longer walk.  Refreshments afterwards.

For 8-10 and a half year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For the lonely, elderly, frail, or with dementia (but self-sufficient).

Self directed.

For ages 7 to 10 and a half.

For ages 10 and a half to 14.

For those who are semi or fully retired, to meet and make new friends who share the same interests. Meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at 10.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton from 15^th September to 15^th June.  There are also around 30 special interest groups meeting regularly.

For 6-8 year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For 10 and a half to 14 year olds.

Parent/Toddler group – Thursday mornings from 10.00 a.m. until 11.30 at the Town Meadow Hut.

All welcome each Thursday morning at 10.30 a.m. until 11.45 at the White Hart. Buy a drink and have a chat with others in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Every Thursday from 11.00 a.m. until 1.00 pm in St. Mary’s Church rooms (behind the church) during school term times.  Bring your own materials:- paint/ knit/ sew/ draw etc, create in a social atmosphere. Free of charge, Refreshments provided with suggested donation to church funds.  Contact Mo Hilton 01256 770886 or email

Ages 5-7 years.

For 7-10.5 year olds.

Funded by the South Downs National Park, the workshop is part of a wider roadshow run by Energise South Downs, a non-profit community energy organisation. Using local data and research, the session will look closely at Overton’s current energy demand, the carbon footprint linked to it, and the scale of renewable installations needed to make a meaningful difference.

Attendees will explore a variety of renewable technologies, examining which options are practical and acceptable within the surrounding Hampshire countryside. Organisers aim to gather genuine community feedback on what residents feel fits the local landscape, while demonstrating how collective community energy schemes work in practice.

Meets at St. Mary’s Hall on Thursdays from 8.00 pm until 10.00 pm. Call Teresa 01256 770248 or just turn up.

For 14-18 year olds.

For pre-schoolers and their parents/carers during Term Time

Festival Place, Where Christmas Comes to Life!

This year, Festival Place is bringing Christmas magic to Basingstoke with six weekends of free family fun, live entertainment, creative activities and festive surprises throughout November and December.

The celebrations begin on Saturday 14th November with our Christmas Launch Weekend, a day packed with festive fun, memorable experiences and plenty of Christmas cheer for the whole family.

Saturday 14th November – Christmas Launch Weekend

Join us as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place, with a fantastic line-up of free activities and entertainment:

- Nuts for Nutcrackers – get creative in a festive craft workshop and make your own Christmas creation to take home.
- Meet the Grinch – expect plenty of mischief, laughter and festive fun from everyone's favourite green Christmas troublemaker.
- Tinseltastic Breakdancers – enjoy high-energy festive performances, impressive moves and plenty of Christmas sparkle.
- Free Face Painting – little ones can get into the festive spirit with colourful Christmas-inspired designs.
- Makers Market – browse a wonderful selection of handmade creations and unique finds at the Makers Market in the Creative Emporium on the Upper Level.
- Christmas Choir Performances – enjoy the sounds of the season with VoxFresh performing at 11am, followed by Sing Now Choir at 2pm and 3pm.

And the magic doesn't stop there! Every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas brings something new for families to enjoy.

Saturday 21st November

- Letter Writing to Santa – little ones can put their Christmas wishes into words and create a special letter for Father Christmas.
- Nutcracker Brass Band – enjoy the sounds of the season as festive favourites fill Festival Place.

Saturday 28th November

- Snowy Suncatchers – a winter-inspired craft workshop full of colour, sparkle and creativity.
- Joyful Jugglers – festive entertainment and impressive juggling skills guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Saturday 5th December

- Bauble Blitz – get crafty and create your very own festive bauble to take home.
- Merry Tumblers – exciting acrobatics and tumbling performances bringing plenty of energy and Christmas cheer.

Saturday 12th December

- Christmas Cookie Decorating – get hands-on with a delicious festive workshop and decorate your very own Christmas cookie.
- Tinsel Breakdancers – our energetic breakdancers return with even more festive moves and Christmas spirit.

Saturday 19th December

- Penguin Puppets – meet our adorable penguin puppets and enjoy a little extra Christmas magic.
- Wish Collector – share your Christmas wishes and enjoy a magical festive encounter in the final countdown to the big day.

Even More Christmas Magic

There's plenty more to enjoy throughout the festive season! Local choirs will be filling Festival Place with the familiar sounds of Christmas, while the FP Express Train will be running throughout the festive period, adding another magical experience for little ones and families to enjoy together.

All six Saturdays feature free family activities and entertainment from 11am–4pm.

So gather your loved ones, tick off a few Christmas presents and join us for six Saturdays of festive fun as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place!

Plan your festive visit: [https://www.festivalplace.co.uk](https://www.festivalplace.co.uk)

Raising money for the Farming Community Network.

More information here.

Raising money for Lordsfield Swimming Pool.

Join the fun every Sunday from 4pm at The Red Lion for Meats & Beats! Enjoy the weekly meat draw, followed by a fun-filled game of Beat the Intro, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you know your music inside out or fancy testing your luck, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends, a few drinks and plenty of laughs. With prizes kindly provided by Geoff Aubrey & Sons Family Butchers, Oakley, there’s plenty to play for. Come along, get involved and make Sundays at The Red Lion your new favourite tradition!

Meet each Sunday morning at St. Luke’s Hall at 10.30 a.m.

Meets each Monday at the Overton Recreation Ground in Bridge Street at 9.45 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. for a choice of short (2.5 miles) or a longer walk.  Refreshments afterwards.

For 8-10 and a half year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For the lonely, elderly, frail, or with dementia (but self-sufficient).

Self directed.

For ages 7 to 10 and a half.

For ages 10 and a half to 14.

For those who are semi or fully retired, to meet and make new friends who share the same interests. Meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at 10.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton from 15^th September to 15^th June.  There are also around 30 special interest groups meeting regularly.

For 6-8 year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For 10 and a half to 14 year olds.

Parent/Toddler group – Thursday mornings from 10.00 a.m. until 11.30 at the Town Meadow Hut.

All welcome each Thursday morning at 10.30 a.m. until 11.45 at the White Hart. Buy a drink and have a chat with others in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Every Thursday from 11.00 a.m. until 1.00 pm in St. Mary’s Church rooms (behind the church) during school term times.  Bring your own materials:- paint/ knit/ sew/ draw etc, create in a social atmosphere. Free of charge, Refreshments provided with suggested donation to church funds.  Contact Mo Hilton 01256 770886 or email

Described as the Nativity meets Fawlty Towers, the show follows a Roman census’ worth of guests, an unexpected hotel inn-spector and a young couple with a baby on the way. With space running out, it seems there really is no room at the inn!

The production combines plenty of farcical humour with a heartfelt message of hope and joy at the heart of the Nativity.

There will be two performances of the show on Thursday 3rd December, at 4pm and 6.30pm, with both performances featuring the same production.

Admission is completely free, making it a great opportunity to enjoy some family entertainment and get into the Christmas spirit.

Although tickets are free, families are asked to reserve their places in advance through Eventbrite.

Tickets can be booked using the following links:

• 4pm performance: Book free tickets via Eventbrite
• 6.30pm performance: Book free tickets via Eventbrite

Ages 5-7 years.

For 7-10.5 year olds.

For 14-18 year olds.

Meets at St. Mary’s Hall on Thursdays from 8.00 pm until 10.00 pm. Call Teresa 01256 770248 or just turn up.

For pre-schoolers and their parents/carers during Term Time

Bring us your broken items - electrical appliances, bikes, jewellery, clothes, toys, furniture and more - and an expert volunteer will do their very best to fix it and save it from the bin.

Donations welcome but not necessary.

Get in touch to book your items in for repair in advance if you can, to give us the best chance to have the right tools available.

Festival Place, Where Christmas Comes to Life!

This year, Festival Place is bringing Christmas magic to Basingstoke with six weekends of free family fun, live entertainment, creative activities and festive surprises throughout November and December.

The celebrations begin on Saturday 14th November with our Christmas Launch Weekend, a day packed with festive fun, memorable experiences and plenty of Christmas cheer for the whole family.

Saturday 14th November – Christmas Launch Weekend

Join us as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place, with a fantastic line-up of free activities and entertainment:

- Nuts for Nutcrackers – get creative in a festive craft workshop and make your own Christmas creation to take home.
- Meet the Grinch – expect plenty of mischief, laughter and festive fun from everyone's favourite green Christmas troublemaker.
- Tinseltastic Breakdancers – enjoy high-energy festive performances, impressive moves and plenty of Christmas sparkle.
- Free Face Painting – little ones can get into the festive spirit with colourful Christmas-inspired designs.
- Makers Market – browse a wonderful selection of handmade creations and unique finds at the Makers Market in the Creative Emporium on the Upper Level.
- Christmas Choir Performances – enjoy the sounds of the season with VoxFresh performing at 11am, followed by Sing Now Choir at 2pm and 3pm.

And the magic doesn't stop there! Every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas brings something new for families to enjoy.

Saturday 21st November

- Letter Writing to Santa – little ones can put their Christmas wishes into words and create a special letter for Father Christmas.
- Nutcracker Brass Band – enjoy the sounds of the season as festive favourites fill Festival Place.

Saturday 28th November

- Snowy Suncatchers – a winter-inspired craft workshop full of colour, sparkle and creativity.
- Joyful Jugglers – festive entertainment and impressive juggling skills guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Saturday 5th December

- Bauble Blitz – get crafty and create your very own festive bauble to take home.
- Merry Tumblers – exciting acrobatics and tumbling performances bringing plenty of energy and Christmas cheer.

Saturday 12th December

- Christmas Cookie Decorating – get hands-on with a delicious festive workshop and decorate your very own Christmas cookie.
- Tinsel Breakdancers – our energetic breakdancers return with even more festive moves and Christmas spirit.

Saturday 19th December

- Penguin Puppets – meet our adorable penguin puppets and enjoy a little extra Christmas magic.
- Wish Collector – share your Christmas wishes and enjoy a magical festive encounter in the final countdown to the big day.

Even More Christmas Magic

There's plenty more to enjoy throughout the festive season! Local choirs will be filling Festival Place with the familiar sounds of Christmas, while the FP Express Train will be running throughout the festive period, adding another magical experience for little ones and families to enjoy together.

All six Saturdays feature free family activities and entertainment from 11am–4pm.

So gather your loved ones, tick off a few Christmas presents and join us for six Saturdays of festive fun as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place!

Plan your festive visit: [https://www.festivalplace.co.uk](https://www.festivalplace.co.uk)

Angie brings a distinguished career in music to the Stute. She has previously sung with The Foundations and has supported legendary acts including Mud, The Drifters and The Real Thing.

Join the fun every Sunday from 4pm at The Red Lion for Meats & Beats! Enjoy the weekly meat draw, followed by a fun-filled game of Beat the Intro, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you know your music inside out or fancy testing your luck, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends, a few drinks and plenty of laughs. With prizes kindly provided by Geoff Aubrey & Sons Family Butchers, Oakley, there’s plenty to play for. Come along, get involved and make Sundays at The Red Lion your new favourite tradition!

Meet each Sunday morning at St. Luke’s Hall at 10.30 a.m.

Meets each Monday at the Overton Recreation Ground in Bridge Street at 9.45 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. for a choice of short (2.5 miles) or a longer walk.  Refreshments afterwards.

For 8-10 and a half year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For the lonely, elderly, frail, or with dementia (but self-sufficient).

Self directed.

For ages 7 to 10 and a half.

For ages 10 and a half to 14.

For those who are semi or fully retired, to meet and make new friends who share the same interests. Meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at 10.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton from 15^th September to 15^th June.  There are also around 30 special interest groups meeting regularly.

Meet outside St Luke’s Hall at 2.00 p.m. on the 2^nd Wednesday afternoon of the month. Contact Councillor Ian Elkins – ian.elkins@overtonparishcouncil.gov.uk

For 6-8 year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For 10 and a half to 14 year olds.

Parent/Toddler group – Thursday mornings from 10.00 a.m. until 11.30 at the Town Meadow Hut.

All welcome each Thursday morning at 10.30 a.m. until 11.45 at the White Hart. Buy a drink and have a chat with others in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Every Thursday from 11.00 a.m. until 1.00 pm in St. Mary’s Church rooms (behind the church) during school term times.  Bring your own materials:- paint/ knit/ sew/ draw etc, create in a social atmosphere. Free of charge, Refreshments provided with suggested donation to church funds.  Contact Mo Hilton 01256 770886 or email

Ages 5-7 years.

For 7-10.5 year olds.

Meets at St. Mary’s Hall on Thursdays from 8.00 pm until 10.00 pm. Call Teresa 01256 770248 or just turn up.

For 14-18 year olds.

For pre-schoolers and their parents/carers during Term Time

Festival Place, Where Christmas Comes to Life!

This year, Festival Place is bringing Christmas magic to Basingstoke with six weekends of free family fun, live entertainment, creative activities and festive surprises throughout November and December.

The celebrations begin on Saturday 14th November with our Christmas Launch Weekend, a day packed with festive fun, memorable experiences and plenty of Christmas cheer for the whole family.

Saturday 14th November – Christmas Launch Weekend

Join us as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place, with a fantastic line-up of free activities and entertainment:

- Nuts for Nutcrackers – get creative in a festive craft workshop and make your own Christmas creation to take home.
- Meet the Grinch – expect plenty of mischief, laughter and festive fun from everyone's favourite green Christmas troublemaker.
- Tinseltastic Breakdancers – enjoy high-energy festive performances, impressive moves and plenty of Christmas sparkle.
- Free Face Painting – little ones can get into the festive spirit with colourful Christmas-inspired designs.
- Makers Market – browse a wonderful selection of handmade creations and unique finds at the Makers Market in the Creative Emporium on the Upper Level.
- Christmas Choir Performances – enjoy the sounds of the season with VoxFresh performing at 11am, followed by Sing Now Choir at 2pm and 3pm.

And the magic doesn't stop there! Every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas brings something new for families to enjoy.

Saturday 21st November

- Letter Writing to Santa – little ones can put their Christmas wishes into words and create a special letter for Father Christmas.
- Nutcracker Brass Band – enjoy the sounds of the season as festive favourites fill Festival Place.

Saturday 28th November

- Snowy Suncatchers – a winter-inspired craft workshop full of colour, sparkle and creativity.
- Joyful Jugglers – festive entertainment and impressive juggling skills guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Saturday 5th December

- Bauble Blitz – get crafty and create your very own festive bauble to take home.
- Merry Tumblers – exciting acrobatics and tumbling performances bringing plenty of energy and Christmas cheer.

Saturday 12th December

- Christmas Cookie Decorating – get hands-on with a delicious festive workshop and decorate your very own Christmas cookie.
- Tinsel Breakdancers – our energetic breakdancers return with even more festive moves and Christmas spirit.

Saturday 19th December

- Penguin Puppets – meet our adorable penguin puppets and enjoy a little extra Christmas magic.
- Wish Collector – share your Christmas wishes and enjoy a magical festive encounter in the final countdown to the big day.

Even More Christmas Magic

There's plenty more to enjoy throughout the festive season! Local choirs will be filling Festival Place with the familiar sounds of Christmas, while the FP Express Train will be running throughout the festive period, adding another magical experience for little ones and families to enjoy together.

All six Saturdays feature free family activities and entertainment from 11am–4pm.

So gather your loved ones, tick off a few Christmas presents and join us for six Saturdays of festive fun as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place!

Plan your festive visit: [https://www.festivalplace.co.uk](https://www.festivalplace.co.uk)

Join the fun every Sunday from 4pm at The Red Lion for Meats & Beats! Enjoy the weekly meat draw, followed by a fun-filled game of Beat the Intro, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you know your music inside out or fancy testing your luck, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends, a few drinks and plenty of laughs. With prizes kindly provided by Geoff Aubrey & Sons Family Butchers, Oakley, there’s plenty to play for. Come along, get involved and make Sundays at The Red Lion your new favourite tradition!

Meet each Sunday morning at St. Luke’s Hall at 10.30 a.m.

Meets each Monday at the Overton Recreation Ground in Bridge Street at 9.45 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. for a choice of short (2.5 miles) or a longer walk.  Refreshments afterwards.

For 8-10 and a half year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

Overton Choral Society will be bringing some festive musical cheer to the village next month with its annual Christmas concert.

The concert will take place on Monday 14 December at 7.30pm at St Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton, featuring performances by the choir alongside Overton Sinfonia.

The evening will be led by Musical Director Paul Timms, with Claire Ellis accompanying on piano.

Admission is free, with donations welcomed on the door. Audience members will also be able to enjoy tea and mince pies after the performance.

The concert will raise funds for two good causes, St Michael’s Hospice and Overton Choral Society.

Everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy an evening of Christmas music in the heart of the village.

For the lonely, elderly, frail, or with dementia (but self-sufficient).

Self directed.

For ages 7 to 10 and a half.

For ages 10 and a half to 14.

For those who are semi or fully retired, to meet and make new friends who share the same interests. Meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at 10.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton from 15^th September to 15^th June.  There are also around 30 special interest groups meeting regularly.

For 6-8 year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For 10 and a half to 14 year olds.

Parent/Toddler group – Thursday mornings from 10.00 a.m. until 11.30 at the Town Meadow Hut.

All welcome each Thursday morning at 10.30 a.m. until 11.45 at the White Hart. Buy a drink and have a chat with others in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Every Thursday from 11.00 a.m. until 1.00 pm in St. Mary’s Church rooms (behind the church) during school term times.  Bring your own materials:- paint/ knit/ sew/ draw etc, create in a social atmosphere. Free of charge, Refreshments provided with suggested donation to church funds.  Contact Mo Hilton 01256 770886 or email

Ages 5-7 years.

For 7-10.5 year olds.

For 14-18 year olds.

Meets at St. Mary’s Hall on Thursdays from 8.00 pm until 10.00 pm. Call Teresa 01256 770248 or just turn up.

For pre-schoolers and their parents/carers during Term Time

Festival Place, Where Christmas Comes to Life!

This year, Festival Place is bringing Christmas magic to Basingstoke with six weekends of free family fun, live entertainment, creative activities and festive surprises throughout November and December.

The celebrations begin on Saturday 14th November with our Christmas Launch Weekend, a day packed with festive fun, memorable experiences and plenty of Christmas cheer for the whole family.

Saturday 14th November – Christmas Launch Weekend

Join us as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place, with a fantastic line-up of free activities and entertainment:

- Nuts for Nutcrackers – get creative in a festive craft workshop and make your own Christmas creation to take home.
- Meet the Grinch – expect plenty of mischief, laughter and festive fun from everyone's favourite green Christmas troublemaker.
- Tinseltastic Breakdancers – enjoy high-energy festive performances, impressive moves and plenty of Christmas sparkle.
- Free Face Painting – little ones can get into the festive spirit with colourful Christmas-inspired designs.
- Makers Market – browse a wonderful selection of handmade creations and unique finds at the Makers Market in the Creative Emporium on the Upper Level.
- Christmas Choir Performances – enjoy the sounds of the season with VoxFresh performing at 11am, followed by Sing Now Choir at 2pm and 3pm.

And the magic doesn't stop there! Every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas brings something new for families to enjoy.

Saturday 21st November

- Letter Writing to Santa – little ones can put their Christmas wishes into words and create a special letter for Father Christmas.
- Nutcracker Brass Band – enjoy the sounds of the season as festive favourites fill Festival Place.

Saturday 28th November

- Snowy Suncatchers – a winter-inspired craft workshop full of colour, sparkle and creativity.
- Joyful Jugglers – festive entertainment and impressive juggling skills guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Saturday 5th December

- Bauble Blitz – get crafty and create your very own festive bauble to take home.
- Merry Tumblers – exciting acrobatics and tumbling performances bringing plenty of energy and Christmas cheer.

Saturday 12th December

- Christmas Cookie Decorating – get hands-on with a delicious festive workshop and decorate your very own Christmas cookie.
- Tinsel Breakdancers – our energetic breakdancers return with even more festive moves and Christmas spirit.

Saturday 19th December

- Penguin Puppets – meet our adorable penguin puppets and enjoy a little extra Christmas magic.
- Wish Collector – share your Christmas wishes and enjoy a magical festive encounter in the final countdown to the big day.

Even More Christmas Magic

There's plenty more to enjoy throughout the festive season! Local choirs will be filling Festival Place with the familiar sounds of Christmas, while the FP Express Train will be running throughout the festive period, adding another magical experience for little ones and families to enjoy together.

All six Saturdays feature free family activities and entertainment from 11am–4pm.

So gather your loved ones, tick off a few Christmas presents and join us for six Saturdays of festive fun as Christmas comes to life at Festival Place!

Plan your festive visit: [https://www.festivalplace.co.uk](https://www.festivalplace.co.uk)

Join the fun every Sunday from 4pm at The Red Lion for Meats & Beats! Enjoy the weekly meat draw, followed by a fun-filled game of Beat the Intro, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you know your music inside out or fancy testing your luck, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends, a few drinks and plenty of laughs. With prizes kindly provided by Geoff Aubrey & Sons Family Butchers, Oakley, there’s plenty to play for. Come along, get involved and make Sundays at The Red Lion your new favourite tradition!

Meet each Sunday morning at St. Luke’s Hall at 10.30 a.m.

Meets each Monday at the Overton Recreation Ground in Bridge Street at 9.45 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. for a choice of short (2.5 miles) or a longer walk.  Refreshments afterwards.

For the lonely, elderly, frail, or with dementia (but self-sufficient).

Self directed.

For those who are semi or fully retired, to meet and make new friends who share the same interests. Meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at 10.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton from 15^th September to 15^th June.  There are also around 30 special interest groups meeting regularly.

All welcome each Thursday morning at 10.30 a.m. until 11.45 at the White Hart. Buy a drink and have a chat with others in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Every Thursday from 11.00 a.m. until 1.00 pm in St. Mary’s Church rooms (behind the church) during school term times.  Bring your own materials:- paint/ knit/ sew/ draw etc, create in a social atmosphere. Free of charge, Refreshments provided with suggested donation to church funds.  Contact Mo Hilton 01256 770886 or email

Meets at St. Mary’s Hall on Thursdays from 8.00 pm until 10.00 pm. Call Teresa 01256 770248 or just turn up.

Join the fun every Sunday from 4pm at The Red Lion for Meats & Beats! Enjoy the weekly meat draw, followed by a fun-filled game of Beat the Intro, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you know your music inside out or fancy testing your luck, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends, a few drinks and plenty of laughs. With prizes kindly provided by Geoff Aubrey & Sons Family Butchers, Oakley, there’s plenty to play for. Come along, get involved and make Sundays at The Red Lion your new favourite tradition!

Meet each Sunday morning at St. Luke’s Hall at 10.30 a.m.

Meets each Monday at the Overton Recreation Ground in Bridge Street at 9.45 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. for a choice of short (2.5 miles) or a longer walk.  Refreshments afterwards.

For the lonely, elderly, frail, or with dementia (but self-sufficient).

Self directed.

For those who are semi or fully retired, to meet and make new friends who share the same interests. Meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at 10.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton from 15^th September to 15^th June.  There are also around 30 special interest groups meeting regularly.

All welcome each Thursday morning at 10.30 a.m. until 11.45 at the White Hart. Buy a drink and have a chat with others in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Every Thursday from 11.00 a.m. until 1.00 pm in St. Mary’s Church rooms (behind the church) during school term times.  Bring your own materials:- paint/ knit/ sew/ draw etc, create in a social atmosphere. Free of charge, Refreshments provided with suggested donation to church funds.  Contact Mo Hilton 01256 770886 or email

Meets at St. Mary’s Hall on Thursdays from 8.00 pm until 10.00 pm. Call Teresa 01256 770248 or just turn up.

Bring us your broken items - electrical appliances, bikes, jewellery, clothes, toys, furniture and more - and an expert volunteer will do their very best to fix it and save it from the bin.

Donations welcome but not necessary.

Get in touch to book your items in for repair in advance if you can, to give us the best chance to have the right tools available.

Join the fun every Sunday from 4pm at The Red Lion for Meats & Beats! Enjoy the weekly meat draw, followed by a fun-filled game of Beat the Intro, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you know your music inside out or fancy testing your luck, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends, a few drinks and plenty of laughs. With prizes kindly provided by Geoff Aubrey & Sons Family Butchers, Oakley, there’s plenty to play for. Come along, get involved and make Sundays at The Red Lion your new favourite tradition!

Meet each Sunday morning at St. Luke’s Hall at 10.30 a.m.

Meets each Monday at the Overton Recreation Ground in Bridge Street at 9.45 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. for a choice of short (2.5 miles) or a longer walk.  Refreshments afterwards.

For 8-10 and a half year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For the lonely, elderly, frail, or with dementia (but self-sufficient).

Self directed.

For ages 7 to 10 and a half.

For ages 10 and a half to 14.

For those who are semi or fully retired, to meet and make new friends who share the same interests. Meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at 10.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton from 15^th September to 15^th June.  There are also around 30 special interest groups meeting regularly.

For 6-8 year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For 10 and a half to 14 year olds.

Parent/Toddler group – Thursday mornings from 10.00 a.m. until 11.30 at the Town Meadow Hut.

All welcome each Thursday morning at 10.30 a.m. until 11.45 at the White Hart. Buy a drink and have a chat with others in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Every Thursday from 11.00 a.m. until 1.00 pm in St. Mary’s Church rooms (behind the church) during school term times.  Bring your own materials:- paint/ knit/ sew/ draw etc, create in a social atmosphere. Free of charge, Refreshments provided with suggested donation to church funds.  Contact Mo Hilton 01256 770886 or email

Ages 5-7 years.

For 7-10.5 year olds.

For 14-18 year olds.

Meets at St. Mary’s Hall on Thursdays from 8.00 pm until 10.00 pm. Call Teresa 01256 770248 or just turn up.

For pre-schoolers and their parents/carers during Term Time

Join the fun every Sunday from 4pm at The Red Lion for Meats & Beats! Enjoy the weekly meat draw, followed by a fun-filled game of Beat the Intro, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. Whether you know your music inside out or fancy testing your luck, it’s a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends, a few drinks and plenty of laughs. With prizes kindly provided by Geoff Aubrey & Sons Family Butchers, Oakley, there’s plenty to play for. Come along, get involved and make Sundays at The Red Lion your new favourite tradition!

Meet each Sunday morning at St. Luke’s Hall at 10.30 a.m.

Meets each Monday at the Overton Recreation Ground in Bridge Street at 9.45 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. for a choice of short (2.5 miles) or a longer walk.  Refreshments afterwards.

For 8-10 and a half year olds.

Meets Monday and Wednesday evenings for 12 to 18-year-olds in the Army Cadet Hut, High Street (opposite the golf course). From 19.00 until 21.00. Please don’t come along without registering first.

Contact https://armycadets.com

For the lonely, elderly, frail, or with dementia (but self-sufficient).

Self directed.

For ages 7 to 10 and a half.

For ages 10 and a half to 14.

For those who are semi or fully retired, to meet and make new friends who share the same interests. Meets on the 3^rd Wednesday of each month at 10.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Hall, High Street, Overton from 15^th September to 15^th June.  There are also around 30 special interest groups meeting regularly.