Things to do in/around Basildon this weekend 19.12.25

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It’s Saturday, Basildon!

Lots of Christmas markets over the cold weekend ahead, so wrap up warm and explore. Here’s all the info on what’s happening this weekend in and around Basildon this weekend.

What’s On This Weekend in and Around Basildon

Lots of Christmas markets and festive events are happening over the cold weekend ahead, so wrap up warm and get out exploring. Here’s what’s on locally this weekend.

The best Secret Santa gift? A Pop-Tart heating pad.

For the friend who loves cozy comfort and a touch of nostalgia, the Happy Helpers Pop-Tart Heating Pad is a sweet standout on any holiday gift list. Designed to look just like the iconic Strawberry Frosted Pop-Tart, this microwaveable cutie delivers warm, soothing relief for period cramps, sore muscles, or chilly winter days.

Perfect for your bestie, parent, sibling, or anyone who could use a little extra warmth this season. Equal parts comforting and charming, this Pop-Tart is guaranteed to be the most delightfully unexpected hit of your Secret Santa exchange!

Get the Happy Helpers Pop-Tart here!

🎄 Saturday 20 December

Basildon RFC Home Match
Basildon RFC 1st XV vs Canvey Island RFC
Kick-off: 2pm
Basildon RFC, Gardiners Close,SS14 3AW,
A big home game with a great matchday atmosphere – all support welcome.

Live Music Night – Lauren
8pm–11pm
Oliver’s Italian Wine Bar & Restaurant,Jacksons Lane, Billericay,CM11 2DG
A stunning live performance. Booking recommended.

Guided Nature Walk, Langdon Hills, Lower Dunton Road, Basildon,SS16 6EJ,
A guided walk around the reserve led by Ranger Liam
Perfect for getting outdoors and learning more about local wildlife. Find out more

Breakfast with Giggles the Elf at View Garden Centre
9am sessions at View Garden Centre, Old Chelmsford Road, Rayleigh, Wickford, Essex, SS11 8SJ
Available Saturday 20, Monday 22 & Tuesday 23 December
A magical festive breakfast experience – last few tables remaining. Book here

Christmas Party (kids) at Jolly Friars
2pm at the Jolly Friars, 118 Whitmore Way, Basildon, Essex, SS14 3JT
2 - 4pm (free)

Miniature train at Wat Tyler park
Sat 20th December - 12pm until 4:30pm. £4 per person | cash or card accepted

£2 Christmas Cinema Screenings at Cineworld (Festival Leisure)
20–24 December
Family favourites including The Polar Express, Elf, The Muppets Christmas Carol and Home Alone, all for just £2.

Christmas at Barleylands – Grotto & Market
Barleylands, Billericay
Grotto running 12–14 & 18–24 December
Christmas Market open daily, 10am–6pm (free entry)
Festive shopping, Elf Trail and seasonal attractions.

Live music at The White Swan, Wickford
By Verity. The Broadway, Wickford, Essex, SS11 7AD
From 9pm

🎄 Sunday 21 December

The Grinch Visits Festival Leisure Park
Appearing between 12:30pm–4:30pm
Expect festive fun, photos, and a bit of Grinchy mischief throughout the park.

Live Music – Lee Weller
From 6pm
Posh Boys Brewery & Taproom, Wickford
Special Christmas Reggae & Ska Night with feel-good festive vibes.

Christmas Carol Service at Wickford Christian Centre
10:30am - 12pm
Crouch Drive, Wickford, United Kingdom
Carol singing and refreshments offered

Christmas Carol Service at The Hive
10:30am
Basildon United Reformed Church (The Hive), 6 Honeypot Lane, Basildon, SS14 2JZ
Carol singing and Christmas stories, followed by mulled drinks and mince pies.

Winter Solstice event, Langdon Hills, Lower Dunton Road, Basildon,SS16 6EJ,
10am - 12.30. Enjoy a winter walk, collecting natural materials, and finishing at our forest circle. Gather around the fire to use your seasonal finds to inspire some festive crafting and tool work, before sharing snacks and mulled apple juice. Find out more

Xmas Sunday Soul Session
3pm–7pm
The Chequers, Billericay
Christmas jumper special with DJ Dean Kayne – the final Sunday Soul Session of 2025.