8 Christmas Events in Lincolnshire for 2026
Updated for 2026 – 05/10/2026
Quintessential seaside resorts, charming country homes, quaint villages, and the bustling city of Lincoln make Lincolnshire a wonderful place to visit any time of year. This December, try these Christmas events in Lincolnshire, including two of the county’s best Christmas markets.
For more festive activities, check out festive events in Norfolk, Christmas events in Suffolk, things to do in December in East Yorkshire and December events in North Yorkshire.
1. Fairytale Christmas at Doddington Hall
Christmas at Doddington Hall returns for 2026 with a new theme: Classic Christmas Cinema. Each room of the historic Elizabethan Hall is transformed into a scene inspired by a favourite festive film, with handcrafted installations designed and made by Doddington staff, volunteers, local artists, and Lincoln College students.
Running from 11th November to 31st December, it’s a ticketed event with timed entry, so booking ahead is essential. A genuinely good one for families.
2. Christmas at Belton House
This festive season, add some sparkle to your visit with a stroll through Belton Mansion from 20th November 2026 to the 3rd January 2027, beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and stunning trees.
See the all-new illuminated trail for 2026, featuring a Christmas Cathedral, Fire Garden, and a brand-new festive projection across the façade of Belton House.
The Marble Hall is transformed into an ethereal space, and the Library showcases delicate wildlife origami, creating a captivating, fairy-tale atmosphere throughout the mansion.
3. The Real Christmas Experience at Rand Farm Park
Step into Merryjingle, an immersive Elven town filled with festive characters, twinkling lights and hands-on activities at The Real Christmas Experience at Rand Farm Park. Meet Santa, Mrs Claus, cheerful elves and real reindeer as you work your way through the experience, which runs roughly 1.5 to 2 hours for the full weekend and school holiday sessions.
There’s also a Term Time Christmas Experience on weekdays, designed for younger visitors, and evening sessions that run the full magic of the daytime event under the glow of festive lights after dark.
The Real Christmas Experience runs on selected dates from 28th November through to 24th December. Tickets sell out fast, so book well ahead.
4. Belvoir Castle Christmas Village
Just over the border in Leicestershire, Belvoir Castle runs its Christmas Village from 14th November to 30th December. Shop for hand-crafted gifts at the Retail Village, visit Santa’s Grotto, or book Breakfast with Father Christmas. Kids can explore the Christmas Trail in the Adventure Playground, and the Belvoir Bistro serves Festive Afternoon Tea daily throughout the season.
5. Lincoln Castle Illuminated
Lincoln Castle Illuminated brings extra sparkle and festive magic to the historic castle grounds each Christmas season. Wander through enchanting light displays, enjoy hot chocolate and festive treats, and take in the atmosphere with traditional fairground rides and magical photo spots.
Walk the Illuminated Wall Walk for breathtaking views, ride the mini Christmas Express, and meet the castle’s resident dragons. Dog-friendly evenings also run on selected Wednesdays throughout the event.
Dates for Lincoln Castle Illuminated 2026 are 20th November to 23rd December.
6. Louth Victorian Christmas Market 2026
Step back in time at the Louth Victorian Christmas Market on Sunday 29th November 2026. Experience the charm of a traditional festive market as the streets come alive with costumed stallholders, twinkling lights, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
Browse unique gifts, enjoy seasonal entertainment, and soak up the nostalgic atmosphere, perfect for getting into the Christmas spirit in the heart of historic Louth!
7. Santa Fun Run 2026
Get ready to don your red suit and join the Santa Fun Run on Sunday 13th December 2026! Run, walk, or crawl your way through a fun-filled festive route surrounded by Santas of all ages.
It’s the perfect way to kick off the Christmas season, spread some cheer, and support a great cause, starter’s horn at 11:00am. Bring your friends, family, and festive spirit for a merry day to remember!
8. Horncastle Christmas Market 2026
Soak up the festive atmosphere at the Horncastle Christmas Market on Sunday 6th December 2026. Discover a wonderful selection of stalls filled with seasonal treats, handmade gifts, and local produce, all set against the town’s charming historic backdrop.
Looking for a base to explore all of this? Mablethorpe Chalet and Caravan Park in Lincolnshire puts you well-placed for the festive season, with plenty to do on the doorstep.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Louth Victorian Christmas Market and the Horncastle Christmas Market both run on Sundays in late November and early December. Each town fills its streets with festive stalls, local produce and handmade gifts, so arrive early for the best choice and easier parking.
Lincoln Castle Illuminated usually lights up the castle grounds from late November until just before Christmas, but dates for 2026 are yet to be announced, so keep an eye on the Lincoln Castle website for update. Doddington Hall, a few miles west of the city, fills its Elizabethan rooms with festive scenes, and the Real Christmas Experience at Rand Farm Park is a short drive north east.
Most Christmas events in Lincolnshire open in November. In 2026, Christmas at Doddington Hall opens on 11 November and Christmas at Belton on 20 November. Lincoln Castle Illuminated dates are yet to be confirmed for 2026. Markets and other festive events typically follow in late November and December. Check each organiser for 2026 dates before you book.
Yes. Louth and Horncastle both sit a short drive inland from Mablethorpe Chalet & Caravan Park, and Louth is within easy reach of Humberston Fitties near Cleethorpes. For more ideas through the year, see our Lincolnshire events guide.