Christmas in Full Glow: Eastgate Square Reveals its Festive Decorations for 2026

Eastgate Square Chester is looking wonderfully festive as its Christmas decorations return for 2026, bringing a warm, nostalgic glow to the heart of the city.

This year's scheme features a series of beautiful enhancements, with even more festive touches for visitors to discover as they shop, dine and enjoy the Christmas season.

Taking centre stage is the Square's magnificent eight-metre Christmas tree, now fully dressed in shimmering gold and champagne decorations, creating a spectacular centrepiece beneath the glass atrium.

Throughout the centre, 30 twinkling Christmas trees add little pockets of festive magic, while the beautiful golden glow of St. Michael's Arcade creates a particularly enchanting setting for Christmas shopping.

And on Bridge Street, the centre's showstopping illuminated façade has made its much-anticipated return, with thousands of sparkling lights highlighting one of Chester's most distinctive historic buildings.

Lisa Rogers, Centre Manager, said:

“Whether it's families stopping to admire the tree, friends taking photographs together or shoppers simply soaking up the atmosphere, it's lovely to see the decorations bringing a little extra joy to people's visits.

“We're always looking for ways to make the centre even more special, and this year we've added some beautiful finishing touches to our Christmas scheme. We're so pleased with how everything has come together, and we hope it helps make Christmas shopping in Chester feel that little bit more magical.”

The festive celebrations are only just beginning, with Grotto on the Square opening on Friday 20 November and running until Christmas Eve.

Taking pride of place beside the main Christmas tree for the first time, the grotto offers families much more than a traditional visit to Father Christmas.

Children will embark on a magical journey aboard the Enchanted Elevator, an immersive, multi-sensory experience filled with enchanting sights, sounds and special effects, before arriving at the North Pole to meet Santa himself.

Tickets cost just £13 per child and £3 per adult, offering families an affordable way to enjoy a memorable Christmas adventure together. Tickets can be booked at: tr.ee/GrottoOnTheSquare

Alongside the grotto, Eastgate Square will host five weekends of festive entertainment, including free family activities, live music, character appearances and plenty of opportunities to make Christmas memories.

With its sparkling decorations, festive shopping and a packed programme of seasonal activities, Eastgate Square is ready to welcome visitors for a truly magical Christmas.

Full event details, including session times and participation information, can be found at eastgatesquarechester.co.uk/events