Made in the Shire

What’s on in December in West Berkshire

December is finally here, there’s a definite bite in the air hailing the start of the winter season, which can only mean one thing of course: Christmas is nearly upon us! Christmas trees are being decorated, children are getting giddy with excitement as they write their lists for Santa and grown-ups are starting to feel the pressure of all they have to do this month. Fear not, there is plenty of fun to be had by all before the big day. Here’s our list of things to do in December to keep the whole family entertained.

1. CACAO Ceremony, Sound Healing and Yin Workshop with Nourish by V

This workshop at Westridge Studio, Highclere, on Saturday 9th December at 10am-12.30pm will aid relaxation before the festive season really kicks off. It will enable you to reset at the end of another year, and express gratitude for the year you have had. Tickets are £35. There are only three spaces left, so book now at nourishbyv.com

Reset and reconnect at this pre-Christmas workshop with Nourish by V

2. Christmas Workshop at Honesty Cookery School

This ‘Edible Christmas Gifts from Italy’ workshop is the perfect thing to get you in the festive mood. Learn to create some Italian specialities, including biscotti, Neapolitan chocolate torrone and panforte di Siena, using spices and luxurious ingredients, perfect at Christmas. This fabulous four-hour workshop on 7th December from 10am-2pm includes a light lunch of warming soup, with breads and cheeses from the farm shop. £95. Book now, as there are only four spaces left. honestygroup.co.uk

Cook up a storm and create some Italian delights at this cookery workshop at Honesty Cookery School

3. Festival of Light, Newbury

One of the highlights of the Newbury calendar, the Festival of Light on Sunday 10th December sees the town centre transformed into a magical wonderland of twinkling lanterns everywhere you look. The procession starts at the top of Northbrook Street at 4.30pm and travels down towards the marketplace where the procession culminates in music and festivities. Make your own lantern and join the procession, or just come along to watch from the roadside. This really is a spectacle to behold and will certainly get you in the festive spirit. Don’t miss it.

Find out more at www.cornexchangenew.com

Join the procession at the magical Festival of Light in Newbury

4. Wine Club at Goat on The Roof

The monthly wine club at Goat on the Roof in Newbury town centre is back again on Thursday 7th December and there are a still a few spaces available. Snap up a place now before it’s too late! This is a fantastic evening of tasting some great vintages and sampling a few nibbles to boot. Don’t miss out. A wonderful Christmassy evening to get you in the festive spirit. Contact them now to book. www.goatontheroof.co.uk 

5. Events at Renegade Brewery

There is loads going on this December at the Renegade Brewery. Check out the website at renegadebrewery.co.uk for more information and to book.

  • Wreath Making Workshop with the Wessex Flower Company on 9th December 10am-12pm. Join the gathering in the heated tent to make a luxury wreath to hang on your front door. Music and nibbles included.
  • Festive Funnies: a Christmas Comedy Special on 12th December at 6-10pm. Although this event is currently sold out, keep an eye out for extra tickets going on sale. Always a fun (and very funny!) evening.
  • Charity West Berks Cars & Christmas: Sunday 17th December, 9am-3pm. Again, although this event is currently sold out, tickets might be extended again, so keep an eye out. A great chance to check out some vintage cars, all for a good cause.
  • Christmas Quiz Night – Christmas dinner and quiz: Quiz night (20th December at 7.30-9.30pm) is always super fun and extremely popular and is a great way to kick off the festive holidays. Please email taproomandkitchen@renegadebrewery.co.uk to book.
Kick off the festive season by getting creative with the Wessex Flower Company

6. January events heads up...

  • Mayo Dance Studios dance courses: Start the new year as you mean to go on and get fit with a course of dance lessons with Mayo Dance Studios. Choose either a five-week or a ten-week course in Ballroom and Latin starting in early January. See the website for more information on dates and prices. mayodancestudios.com All levels of dancer welcome.
  • Treetops’ Workshops: Treetops have just added their workshop schedule for next year, so if you want to get some dates in the diary for 2024, then check out the website and book now at treetops-newbury.co.uk From the frosty morning watercolour workshop to texture in pen and wash with watercolour, there’s lots to choose from. Tickets are £85 per person and include a lovely lunch.

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