As November sweeps in with its crisp air and a hint of festive excitement, Cambridge reveals a tapestry of enriching experiences. From wine tastings to crafting your very own Christmas wreath or immersing yourself in the charm of local Christmas markets, let’s explore the exciting calendar of events that promises to fill your November with joy.
‘Meet the Merchants’ Cambridge Winter Wine Fair – Sunday 12th November
Armed with a tasting glass, you’ll step into a room filled with various wine merchants, each offering an array of exciting new wines for you to sample. You’re free to taste as many wines as you’d like without any extra cost, learn more about them, and ask questions if you wish. There are spittoons available, but using them is optional. Staying mentally alert is a good idea so you can savour discovering new favourites (with over 100 wines available), but don’t hesitate to indulge in the ones you particularly enjoy!
With Christmas just around the corner, the Cambridge Winter Wine Fair is a great opportunity to stock up for the festive season, explore what’s new, and buy intriguing wines for gift-giving!
Tickets are £35 for one OR save £10 grabbing two spaces for £60.
Location: The Cass Centre, Cambridge, Shaftesbury Rd, CB2 8BS
https://www.localwineschool.com/cambridge/events/wine-tastings-and-courses/explore/cambridge-wine-fair/
A Mind, Body, Spirit Day – Saturday 18th November – 10.30 – 4.30pm
This invigorating event rejuvenates your mind, body, and spirit, providing a welcome escape from the daily hustle and bustle. Experience the wonders of holistic therapies like reiki, reflexology, and aromatherapy, leaving you refreshed and revitalised.
Whether you’re an experienced wellness enthusiast or just beginning your holistic living journey, A Mind Body Spirit Day has something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to prioritise your well-being and embark on a path of self-discovery.
Entry: £1 (Children and senior citizens enter for free).
Location: Cambridge Spiritualist Church, 652 Newmarket Rd, Cambridge, CB5 8RS
https://www.cambridgespiritualistchurch.co.uk/
Local Makers Christmas Market: Cambridge – Saturday 18th November – 11:00am to 4:00pm
This Christmas, choose to shop local and handmade at the special Local Makers Market held at Downing Place United Reformed Church. This exciting event will shine a spotlight on the skills of 40 talented artisans, offering a wide array of handmade gifts just in time for the festive season. Explore a diverse selection of items, from ceramics and prints to jewellery, candles, and more.
Seize this chance to uncover distinctive, handcrafted treasures while lending your support to local artisans and businesses. Admission to the Makers Market is free!
Location: Downing Place United Reformed Church, 4 Downing Place, Cambridge
Cambridge’s Christmas Craft & Flea – Saturday 18th November – 11:00 am to 05:00 pm
Discover a wide array of unique and independent gift ideas all under one roof.
Embrace the spirit of supporting small, local businesses at this innovative take on the traditional craft market. Offering a vast selection of items, ranging from illustrations to vintage treasures, plants to jewellery, sustainable goods to delectable treats, ceramics to candles, and much more.
Visit their Facebook event page at facebook.com/craftandflea to explore the incredible talent on display.
Tickets: £2.50 for entry, and kids under 12 get in for free (no need for a ticket).
Location: St. Paul’s Church, St Paul’s Church, Cambridge
Wildlife Walk – Birds of the Fens – Thursday 23rd November – 10:00am to 12:00pm
Enjoy a morning stroll, delving into the Fenlands’ rich wildlife. This session is dedicated to honing your abilities in identifying birds native to this unique region. Your guide for this experience is David Chandler, a renowned wildlife writer and guide.
This guided walk will also be offered on Saturday, November 25th. David Chandler brings a wealth of expertise, having authored or co-authored 17 books, including titles like “RSPB Children’s Guide to Bird Watching,” “Kingfishers,” and “A Beginner’s Guide to Dragonflies & Damselflies.” He’s a regular contributor to Bird Watching magazine and has dedicated nearly two decades to his work with the RSPB and BirdLife International.
Location: RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes, Fen Drayton Road, Cambridge
Ska-dust At Cambridge Workingman’s Club East Road – Saturday 25th November at 09:30 pm
Immerse yourself in the infectious rhythms and lively beats as Ska-dust delivers an unforgettable night of music and entertainment that will keep you dancing all evening long.
Location: Cambridge Workingmen’s Club, 125 East Road,Cambridge
Beginner’s Christmas brush lettering calligraphy workshop – Saturday 25th November – 13:00 pm to 14:30pm
Learn the art of Christmas brush lettering with Calligraphy by Kiki in the University Arms Hotel ballroom. In just 90 minutes, you’ll acquire the foundational skills to craft your unique lettering for personalised Christmas cards and gift tags. Each attendee receives a brush calligraphy pen, calligraphy paper, and gift tags to practise at home. This beginner-level workshop is ideal for those new to calligraphy.
Kiki has hosted workshops for esteemed brands like Space NK, Jo Malone, and lululemon. Enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and mince pies during the workshop and receive a 25% discount on Parker’s Tavern festive Afternoon Tea.
To book Afternoon Tea, contact the restaurant directly at 01223 606266 or visit www.parkerstavern.com.
Location: University Arms Hotel, Autograph Collection, Regent Street, Cambridge CB2 1AD
Christmas Wreath workshop – 25th November, 3rd December or 10th December
You’ll have the chance to craft your very own Christmas wreath filled with a delightful mix of textures and scents. This includes an assortment of seasonal greenery like fresh blue spruce, berried ivy, aromatic eucalyptus, pine cones, cinnamon sticks, dried oranges, and charming lotus heads. Plus, you’ll have access to an abundance of festive hues and glimmer!
During this workshop, you’ll be guided on how to create your wreath from the ground up, starting with securing the base with moss, adorning it with various foliage, and embellishing it with fruits, cones, and a touch of sparkle.
The workshop is approximately 2.5 hours in duration and costs £55 per person.
Location: 2 Station Square, Cambridge, CB1 2GA
https://elizabethjaneflowers.com/
Christmas Craft at The Botanical Garden – Saturday 2nd December – 10am to 1pm
Embrace the holiday spirit at this casual event, perfect for all ages! Discover the fascinating history of the Christmas tree and get creative with Christmas crafts to bring home.
Suitable for ages 3 and up.
Location: Cambridge University Botanic Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge, CB2 1JE
https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/whats-on/