Cheltenham Borough Council has confirmed that there'll be no ice rink in Imperial Gardens this festive season.
Upon reaching the end of its three-year contract with the ice rink provider, it has decided not to renew it for Christmas 2026.
In an official statement, the council said it had chosen to ‘consider other activities and events that residents and visitors may like to enjoy in the run up to Christmas’.
Councillor Izaac Tailford, cabinet member for economic development, culture, wellbeing and public realm, said: ‘Rather than committing to another long-term contract, especially with significant rises in costs and the changing shape of local government, we were keen to offer a unique festive countdown this year, full of new experiences to really set Cheltenham apart and let it sparkle.’
Cheltenham Christmas lights switch-on
Cheltenham's festive celebrations officially begin on Saturday 21 November 2026 when the town's Christmas lights will be switched on, promising sparkle and seasonal cheer throughout the festive season, delivered by Cheltenham BID and part-funded by the council.
Festive film projection to light up Cheltenham Municipal Offices
A new immersive festive film projection celebrating Cheltenham’s identity, heritage and character will light up the iconic facade of the council's Municipal Offices on the Promenade.
As darkness falls every evening from Thursday 3 to Wednesday 16 December 2026, this specially-commissioned festive film projection will bring light, colour and storytelling to the town, forming part of a wider programme of festive activities taking place across Cheltenham this Christmas.
Late-night Christmas shopping in Cheltenham
Late-night shopping is back on Thursday 3 and 10 December 2026 and looks set to be popular again this year.
With John Lewis and Marks & Spencer among the first retailers to come on board for late-night shopping, the council is urging more Cheltenham shops to sign up.
Free parking for late-night shoppers
On the same two evenings as Cheltenham's late-night shopping – Thursday 3 and 10 December 2026 – parking is free from 3pm in all town centre council car parks.
This includes council car parks in High Street, Town Centre East (which closes at 8pm), Royal Well, Rodney Road, Bath Parade, St James Street, Chelt Walk and Sherborne Place, but does not include the Regent Arcade car park.
Festive market returns to Cheltenham's Promenade
And the Cheltenham Christmas Market returns to the Promenade, this year for an extended run, from Thursday 10 to Wednesday 23 December 2026, featuring 40 wooden market stalls.
Shoppers can browse a broad selection of tempting items for sale, from Christmas gifts and crafts handmade by local producers to festive food and mulled wine.
For full details, check the Visit Cheltenham website.
