Lincoln turns into a glowing winter playground every December — cobbled streets lit with golden lights, the castle illuminated like a movie set, and the whole city buzzing with markets, music, culture and nightlife.
If you’re in Lincoln from 10 December onwards, here’s your Best DJ insider guide to where to go, what to see, and how to make this Christmas unforgettable.
✨ THE BIG ONE: Lincoln Castle Illuminated (Until 23 December)
If there’s one event to experience in Lincoln this December, it’s this.
Lincoln Castle transforms into a magical winter world — illuminated walls, glowing trails, Christmas Express rides, snow effects, fairground vibes and photo spots that look straight out of a Netflix Christmas film.
Why it’s unmissable:
Opens 5:30 pm weekdays / 4:00 pm weekends Runs through to 23 December Massive light installations Wall walk with sparkling city views Hot chocolate, mulled wine, festive street food Perfect for couples, families, or a chilled evening with friends
Best DJ Tip: Book early — weekends sell out fast.
🎁 SHOPPING & MARKETS: Festive Finds + Last-Minute Gifts
Festive Makers Market – 13 December
Lincolnshire Showground hosts one of the best maker events of the season.
Expect over 100 independent creators, bakers, designers, homemade festive treats, and unique gifts you won’t see anywhere else.
Why go:
Free entry Big variety of handmade crafts Perfect for last-minute Christmas shopping Great local atmosphere
City Centre & Historic Quarter Shopping
From Steep Hill to Bailgate, Lincoln’s historic streets are packed with independent boutiques, cosy cafés and stores full of character.
Think candles, crafts, artisan foods, quirky gifts — and yes, the perfect vinyls for the music lovers in your life.
Best DJ Tip: Go after 4 pm — the lights are on, the atmosphere switches to Christmas mode, and the whole place feels cinematic.
🎶 FESTIVE VIBES & CULTURE: Lincoln by Night
Cathedral Events & Carol Evenings
Even though the main Candlelight Concert was early in the month, the Cathedral continues hosting smaller carol services and festive moments throughout December.
Why it’s special:
The acoustics are incredible Candlelight + architecture = breathtaking Calm, peaceful, and pure Christmas energy
Check the Cathedral’s listings for dates during your visit.
Nightlife & Christmas Drinks
Lincoln’s nightlife always lifts during December — especially around:
Cornhill Quarter Brayford Waterfront Bailgate pubs
Expect cosy bars, winter cocktails, mulled wine, DJs warming up the crowds, and plenty of Christmas-themed nights.
Best DJ Tip:
Cornhill and Brayford are great for upbeat vibes.
Bailgate is perfect for a chilled, classy festive drink.
🌃 EVENING WALKS & FESTIVE ATMOSPHERE
Lincoln’s night-time look in December is one of its biggest strengths.
From the old alleyways to the Cathedral Quarter, the city feels straight out of a Christmas movie.
Take a night walk after the Castle or Cathedral — lantern-lit streets, glowing shop windows, cobbles shining under the lights. Pure winter magic.
📅 BEST DJ QUICK GUIDE: What To Do From 10 December Onwards
Any evening — Lincoln Castle Illuminated
13 December — Festive Makers Market (10 am–4 pm)
Any night — Cathedral carols, festive drinks in Cornhill, Brayford or Bailgate
Afternoons — Independent shopping along Steep Hill & Bailgate
Chill days — Cafés, local food spots, scenic walks around the Cathedral Quarter
🎧 BEST DJ VERDICT
Lincoln in mid-December delivers everything you want from a winter city break:
atmosphere great drinks glowing historic scenery unique shopping cosy nightlife the unmissable Castle Illuminated
Whether you’re filming content, visiting friends, or just soaking up the festive energy — Lincoln will treat you well this Christmas.
Wishing all our friends and readers a happy and healthy Christmas
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