From meeting Father Christmas and enjoying festive afternoon teas to wreath-making workshops and late-night shopping, Hillier Garden Centre is preparing to spread some Christmas cheer with a packed programme of seasonal events.
With Christmas fast approaching, Hillier Garden Centre is inviting families, friends and festive shoppers to embrace the magic of the season with a host of activities and experiences throughout November and December.
Whether it is finding the perfect Christmas tree, enjoying delicious seasonal food, creating a handmade wreath or making special memories with Father Christmas, there will be plenty of opportunities for visitors of all ages to get into the festive spirit.
Christmas Celebrations Begin in November
The festivities officially get underway on Tuesday 3 November, when Hillier hosts its Christmas Launch Evening from 5pm until 8pm.
Visitors can look forward to an evening of Christmas shopping, seasonal entertainment and festive treats, providing the perfect opportunity to begin preparing for the big day.
Throughout November, selected Hillier centres will also host a series of Truly Scrumptious Festive Food Evenings, giving visitors the chance to explore a tempting selection of Christmas foods, seasonal delicacies and festive drinks.
For those hoping to get ahead with their Christmas shopping, two special late-night shopping evenings in December will offer additional opportunities to browse festive gifts and decorations, with exclusive discounts available.
Get Creative with Christmas Wreath Making
For anyone who enjoys adding a personal touch to their Christmas decorations, Hillier’s popular Christmas Wreath Making Workshops will return this year.
Taking place between 30 November and 5 December, the two-hour sessions will be led by Hillier experts, who will guide participants through creating their own beautiful festive wreath.
Using fresh seasonal foliage and a selection of decorations, visitors will be able to design a unique wreath to proudly display on their front door throughout the Christmas period.
All materials and refreshments are included, making the workshops an enjoyable seasonal activity for friends, family members or anyone looking to try something creative.
Festive Food and Afternoon Tea
Christmas would not be complete without some delicious seasonal food, and Hillier will be offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy a festive dining experience.
From 23 November until 23 December, guests can sit back and relax with a choice of a two-course festive lunch or a special Christmas afternoon tea.
Whether catching up with friends, treating a loved one or taking a well-earned break from Christmas shopping, the seasonal menus promise an opportunity to enjoy some festive indulgence in a welcoming setting.
Magical Memories with Father Christmas
For younger visitors, one of the highlights of the festive programme will undoubtedly be the chance to meet Father Christmas himself.
Hillier’s Breakfast with Father Christmas experiences will take place on selected dates between 5 and 24 December, offering children and their families a magical start to the day.
The experience includes a delicious breakfast, Christmas-themed activities and a special visit from Father Christmas.
Every child attending will also receive a sweet treat and a memorable gift to take home, helping to make the occasion even more special.
With plenty of festive excitement planned, the experience promises to be a memorable treat for families in the countdown to Christmas Day.
Key Christmas Dates at Hillier Garden Centre
- Tuesday 3 November, 5pm–8pm: Christmas Launch Evening
- 17, 19, 24 and 26 November, 4.30pm–8pm: Truly Scrumptious Festive Food Evenings
- 23 November–23 December: Festive Lunch and Afternoon Tea
- 30 November–5 December: Christmas Wreath Making Workshops, various times
- 5–24 December, 9am: Breakfast with Father Christmas, selected dates
- 9 and 11 December, 5pm–8pm: Christmas Shopping Evenings
Plan Your Festive Visit
With everything from seasonal shopping and festive dining to creative workshops and magical experiences for children, Hillier Garden Centre is hoping to make Christmas 2026 a memorable occasion for visitors.
Events, dates and availability vary between garden centres, so visitors are encouraged to check their nearest location before making plans.
For further information, participating locations and bookings, visit www.hillier.co.uk or speak to the team at a local Hillier Garden Centre.