Save the date for Sparkle in the Park: Free festive fun for the whole family this Christmas at Avery Hill Park!

Tuesday 26 September 2023

The Royal Borough of Greenwich’s annual festive light trail, Sparkle in the Park, is back for a fourth year this Christmas. And it’s set to return to a much-loved location!

From 30 November to 3 December, between 4.30 and 9pm, Avery Hill Park will be transformed into an enchanted winter wonderland for Royal Greenwich residents to enjoy. As part of the stunning display of lights, the historic Winter Garden will be illuminated and visitors can also explore the Christmas market, a fun fair and enjoy pop up performances from local school and community choirs.  

Due to the larger space available, visitors won’t need a ticket to enter this year’s event. We will do our best to minimise any wait times, but please be prepared to queue for entry at especially busy times. 

As in previous years, on Sunday 3 December there will be a quiet hour, for children and adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and sensory sensitivities. During the quiet hour, there will be reduced noise, no flashing lights, a reduced capacity on site and sensory appropriate entertainment. 

The Christmas spirit will also take over our town centres with markets and light switch on events in Eltham, Greenwich and Woolwich, and a market in Thamesmead. Expect local craft, gift and food stalls, children’s arts and crafts and festive entertainment. 

Councillor Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “We know the rising cost of living is an ongoing challenge for everyone, so delivering free, high-quality events for our communities to enjoy is more important than ever.  

“Last year’s Sparkle in the Park was a huge success. We want to make sure even more residents can enjoy the magic this time around, so you won’t require a ticket to enter. Come along with your friends, family and neighbours for a fantastic, free event on your doorstep. 

“The festive season is a great time for our residents to come together as a community and celebrate. Enjoy free arts and crafts and support local traders at our Christmas markets in Eltham, Greenwich, Thamesmead and Woolwich and we'll need your help to light up some of our town centres, too!” 

Christmas Market Dates 

  • Greenwich | Market, lantern parade and light switch on | Wednesday 15 November 

  • Eltham, Passey Place | Market and light switch on | Saturday 18 November | 12 noon to 6pm 

  • Woolwich, General Gordon and Beresford Squares | Market and light switch on | Saturday 25 November | 12 noon to 8pm 

  • Thamesmead, Clocktower | Market | Sunday 26 November 

Filming and photography will take place at these events, if you do not wish your image to be taken please let a member of staff know. 

More details on planning your visits will be available closer to the event. To be the first to receive updates, sign up to the council’s email newsletter, at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/newsletter, follow us on social media or look out for your fortnightly copy of Greenwich Info coming through your door.