The sparkle of lights, the buzz of live music and the return of festive markets — the Christmas season has arrived across Brentwood, Shenfield and Ingatestone.
Brentwood Connected is bringing a series of free community events to the borough this December, all funded by local businesses to celebrate the area’s high streets and bring people together.
Lighting Up Brentwood
This year’s Lighting Up Brentwood once again brought the town together for an unforgettable start to the festive season. The High Street was lined with stalls, delicious food and drink, and plenty of gift ideas from local traders.
Families enjoyed live performances, funfair rides, free face painting and the return of the Giant Christmas Bauble at the Chapel Ruins. The Santa Parade opened the celebrations, leading up to the big lights switch-on at 5pm — officially kicking off Christmas in Brentwood.
Ingatestone Festive Fair — Sunday 7 December, 12–6pm
Ingatestone High Street will once again host its charming Festive Fair, featuring more than 25 stalls offering handmade gifts, crafts and seasonal treats. Expect walkabout entertainment, live music and plenty of festive cheer from local businesses.
Little ones can explore the Christmas Toy Trail in shop windows, enjoy free face painting, and visit the cosy Santa’s Grotto inside the community market.
Festive Shenfield — Sunday 14 December, 12–6pm
Hutton Road comes alive for Festive Shenfield, with market stalls, street performers, funfair rides and live music throughout the afternoon.
Families can enjoy free face painting, seasonal food and drink, and plenty of opportunities to shop local at Shenfield’s cafés, shops and eateries.
A Season of Community
These festive events are all about celebrating community spirit across the borough. Brentwood Connected — the Business Improvement District funded by town centre businesses — works throughout the year to support the area’s high streets and create vibrant experiences for residents and visitors.
Whether you’re browsing Ingatestone’s stalls, joining the fun in Shenfield or looking back on Brentwood’s brilliant light switch-on, there’s plenty of festive magic waiting right on your doorstep.
For full details and event updates, visit brentwoodconnected.co.uk.
