Ely Scene

Hello you 👋

Festive spirit is in full swing across Ely this week, with twinkling lights, Christmas markets, candlelit concerts and cosy workshops filling the city with warmth. From creative studio trails to big nights out and magical family moments, it’s the perfect mix of sparkle, music and making memories. Wrap up, step out, and enjoy every bit of this bright, bustling week.

🎟️ Events This Week

• 🎄 The Big Christmas Tree Lights Switch-on Service - Ely Cathedral 

  Come together at the Cathedral to welcome the festive season with carols, candlelight and community spirit. The service includes singing by the Girl Choristers and Ely Imps, followed by the blessing and lighting of Ely’s biggest Christmas tree. It begins at 5:15pm on Sunday 7 December, and entry is free — no tickets required. Wrap up warm and bring a friend to share the glow and the cheer.

• 🎅 Father Christmas at Ely Museum – Ely Museum

  Saturday 6 & Sunday 7 December, 10:30am – 1pm & 1:30pm – 4pm – Take the children to meet Father Christmas in the enchanting surroundings of Ely Museum. Each child receives a gift and there’s time for a photo. Tickets are £6 per child with adults free. Drop in during either session and enjoy some festive crafts. Memories are made of magical smiles like these!

• 🎻 Vivaldi Four Seasons at Christmas by Candlelight – Ely Cathedral

  The majestic nave of Ely Cathedral will glow by candlelight as the Piccadilly Sinfonietta performs Vivaldi’s celebrated Four Seasons and Beethoven’s Emperor Piano Concerto. Violinist Victoria Lyon and pianist Warren Mailley‑Smith lead the ensemble on Thursday 4 December at 7:30pm, with tickets starting at £21.60. An enchanting start to the festive season.

• 🪩 Boogie Nights Xmas Wonderland – The Maltings

  East Anglia’s biggest Christmas party hits The Maltings with 80s, 90s and noughties classics, glow sticks and themed inflatables. Join the fun on Saturday 6 December from 7pm till late; advance tickets are £8 (groups of four £30) or £10 on the door. Expect festive fancy dress and floor‑filling anthems – just add friends and dance the night away.

• 🎸 Shake, Rattle & Roll Children’s Party – St Mary’s Church

  Little ones can boogie to live music and festive tunes in a relaxed party for toddlers and under‑fives. The fun happens on Saturday 6 December from 2:30pm  – 3:30pm, with admission £8 for one adult and child (or £10 for larger families) and £4 per extra adult. Expect singing, dancing and lots of giggles.

• 🥂 Pottery Painting & Prosecco – Haddenham Arts Centre

  Unleash your creativity while sipping a glass of bubbly at this adults‑only evening. On Friday 5 December you’ll have from 6:30pm  – 8:30pm to paint baubles, mugs or plates in festive designs; tickets are £8.50 plus the cost of your chosen pottery piece. You’ll take home a unique keepsake and a head full of good cheer.

👋 Local and Sponsored Picks

• 🎁 Love Local Christmas Market – Ben’s Yard, Stuntney

  The barn doors at Ben’s Yard open for a curated market featuring independent makers selling gifts, homeware and seasonal treats. Drop in Friday 5 to Sunday 7 December between 10am and 4pm. Entry is free and the line‑up of stalls changes daily, so there’s always something new to discover. Grab a hot drink, browse unique finds and support local creatives.

• 🎭 Everybody’s Talking About Jamie: Teen Edition - Hayward Theatre

  A bold, heart-warming tale of identity and acceptance, as 16-year-old Jamie steps into the spotlight, defying prejudice to follow his dreams. The show runs at 7pm on Thursday 4 Dec, Friday 5 Dec and Saturday 6 Dec, with an additional matinee on Saturday. Tickets are priced at £10, and bookings are available online. It’s a fab-u-lous night out for friends and family alike.

• 🎨 Ely Winter Open Studios – Various Locations Across Ely

  Wander through Ely’s creative corners as local artists open their home studios for two festive weekends of art, sculpture, jewellery, ceramics and mixed-media work. With free entry and studios open 11am – 5pm on Saturday 6 Dec, Sunday 7 Dec, this is a brilliant chance to meet the makers, explore their work, and maybe find a unique gift made right here in the city.

😊 Good News in 60 Seconds

• 💰 Half a Million Raised
  James Stevens and his Ely firm have achieved an incredible milestone, becoming ACT's first corporate partner to raise over half a million pounds for Addenbrooke's Charitable Trust. Their seven-year dedication continues to make a real difference to patients and families across the region.

• 🎓 Celebrating Student Success

  Ely College celebrated its GCSE students at a Certificate Presentation Evening on Monday 1st December. Students were formally presented with their certificates, recognising their hard work and achievements. A proud moment for students, families and teachers alike.

Thanks for being part of the Ely Scene. Go embrace the week ahead ✨