Hello, my name is Ana and I am currently studying Business Communication and Leadership for my Master's degree. Every year I start counting down the days until Christmas, and here I am again. I've been looking for some special Christmas activities happening in Portsmouth and would like to share them with you.
As the days get colder, all I want to do is to buy Christmas decorations, watch "Home Alone", and drink hot chocolate. Life as a student is never easy, especially during this time. Regardless of the busy timetable and assignments, I encourage all of you to engage in some activities this holiday season to boost your spirits and start the new year on a positive note.
And it’s no surprise that the city and the University of Portsmouth have interesting events for students with different interests and passions. Take advantage of these events this holiday season!
University of Portsmouth Winter Events
Christmas Staycation
For the students who are staying in the city during the Christmas closure, the University of Portsmouth is holding events on 29-30 December. Students will be able to drop in any time throughout the event to watch DVDs/films, play games and most importantly, try some snacks. This event is not something you want to miss!
Christmas Picnic
Are you a foodie? Bring some festive snacks to the Greetham Street Halls Common Room, which will also provide some food. Take part in the fun - play games, listen to music and chat with others. This event will be held on 17 December, 1.00 - 4.00PM.
Solstice Walk
If you want to enjoy the sunset with your friends followed by a hot drink then you should join the group of nature lovers outside Rees Hall on 21 December, 3PM. The Pagan Society will be there for you to explain the meaning of a beautiful early sunset and the reasons why people celebrate it.
You’ll find out about all our events and activities over the year at MyPort.
Gunwharf Quays Christmas Market
We all love shopping, drinking hot chocolate, coffee or tea and chilling with friends. If you want to create a celebratory environment and enjoy the day out with friends, Gunwharf Quays Christmas market could be one of your choices. Starting with wine, ending up with German sausages, you can find many interesting things here. Additionally, you can see a giant observation wheel, a carousel, and a balloon ride. Little Christmas trees decorated with fake snow complete the atmosphere. The Christmas village will run until Sunday 2 January 2022.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market
Whether you wish to have a day trip or stay somewhere near Portsmouth for a while, Winchester may be a good idea. It takes around 45-50 minutes by public transport to reach the city. Medieval Winchester Cathedral is a popular feature in this city, where there has been a Christmas market since 2006. It is worth mentioning that Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is one of the best in Europe thanks to its unique location, high-quality exhibitors, and buzzing atmosphere. You can enjoy choosing Christmas gifts, decorations and trying delicious festive foods at the same time.
If you can’t attend anything from my list, make your own plan and connect with friends to have fun together. You’ll find even more events to explore on the Visit Portsmouth website.
Christmas time is for joy and happiness and we all, particularly students, deserve to enjoy this time of year - relaxed, chilled and festive.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!