Enjoy a Festive Weekend in Rugby
Rugby First are inviting everyone to jump on-board the Santa Express (novelty train ride) and join the lantern procession this weekend (Saturday 13 - Sunday 14 December). Visitors can expect lots of Christmas cheer, including lantern making, children’s Christmas crafts, music, an independent market (Sun only), face painting, Father Christmas, Alfie – a real-life Elf, and much more.
13-14 December
Rugby Town Centre
What’s On
Saturday 13 December & Sunday 14 December
Santa Express
Jump on-board the Santa Express (novelty train ride) in Rugby town centre this weekend. The FREE Santa Express rides will run on both days and depart from the top of Sheep Street (with no booking required). Trips last around ten minutes and all children must be accompanied by an adult. As you step aboard the Santa Express and enjoy your magical journey keep an eye out for Father Christmas and Alfie the Elf – give them a wave and make sure you stop by and visit them later for a photograph and to wish them a Happy Christmas.
Where
Sheep Street
Booking
No
Saturday 13 December
Lantern Procession
Come along and take part in the dazzling lantern procession which will be led by a dancing Chinese dragon and a colourful samba band. The parade will leave St Andrew’s Church at 5.30pm, taking a short circular route around the town centre, before returning to the church for hot chocolate and some traditional Christmas carols. Everyone is welcome to join the procession – just make sure you are there for 5.15pm latest and wear something warm! Torches, LEDS and lights are welcome but no naked flames please. For the procession you are welcome to make and bring your own lanterns or alternatively why not make a lantern on the day (at St. Andrew’s Church), with all materials being provided free of charge. The lanterns themselves are hand-held and made from environmentally friendly materials. If you want to make a lantern in advance of the event there are FREE lantern making kits (limited availability) available from Rugby First, along with an online video that show you how to make the lanterns.
Where
St Andrew’s Church
Booking
No
Sunday 14 December
Christmas Independent Market
On Sunday 14 December it will be full steam ahead for Rugby’s first Christmas independent market, taking place in Market Place. The stalls will offer a range of Christmas gifts and festive treats. While wandering around the market enjoy the music and family entertainment, and of course no Christmas event is complete without meeting Father Christmas.
Where
Market Place
13-14 December
Live Music
If you’re heading into Rugby this weekend for the Christmas festivities, you can look forward to a host of live music performances in the town centre.
Saturday 13 December
Act
Des Fraser
Rugby Town Concert Band
SimCo
SimCo
Sambassadors
Time
12:00
13:00
14:00
15:00
16:00
Sunday 14 December
Act
SimCo
Finders Keepers
Rugby Town Concert Band
Rugby Lele Group
Rock Choir
Catty’s Melody and Movement
Time
11:00
12:00
13:00
14:00
14:00
15:00
About the Performers
Des Fraser
Rugby Singer/ Songwriter playing some classic pop music.
Finders Keepers
Duo playing a mix of classic pop. Irish, folk and original music.
SimCo
Singer, busker & all-round music lover. Featured on BBC CWR, finalist in Rugby’s Got Talent, and performer at festivals in the UK and Europe. You’ll often find me singing around Rugby & Coventry as SingingSi.
Rugby Lele Group
Covers band with some unique arrangements, that just happen to play ukuleles.
Rugby Town Concert Band
30 strong ensemble of brass and wind players from around Rugby area and beyond, led by Dominic Birch.
Sambassadors of Groove
Community samba band of drummers and dancers from Leamington Spa
Catty’s Melody and Movement
Professional singer preforming songs from the 40’s 50’s and 60’s to the present.
Rock Choir
Original multi-award-winning contemporary choir.
13-14 December
Christmas Activities
Bring the holiday spirit to life with our fun and easy Christmas crafts for kids! From colorful ornaments to festive DIY decorations, each project sparks creativity and keeps little hands happily engaged. Perfect for families - simple materials, big holiday magic.
Join us for a fun and festive Angel Lantern Workshop — a perfect activity for kids and families to enjoy together! Using delicate doily paper, you’ll create your very own glowing angel-shaped lantern to take home. This hands-on session encourages creativity, teamwork, and a touch of holiday magic. All materials will be provided, and no prior crafting experience is needed — just bring your imagination and festive spirit,
13-14 December
Street Entertainment
Saturday 13 December
Alfie the Elf will be in town checking who's been naughty and who's been good. He'll be riding his reindeer and teaching bell ringing so come and say hello.
Sunday 14 December
Juggling and diabolo are accompanied by the musical monkey playing barrel organ hits
