Following the success of last year’s Charity Christmas Light Trail, the Westminster Group Foundation is once again bringing festive cheer to Banbury with a dazzling display of lights and decorations at Westminster House.

The 2025 event will take place over two weekends — Friday 5th to Sunday 7th December and Friday 12th to Sunday 14th December, from 6pm to 9pm each evening.

Visitors can look forward to a magical walk through the illuminated gardens, enjoy hot drinks and food stalls, and take part in a Children’s Christmas Quest.Well-behaved dogs on leads are also welcome. Entry is by suggested donation of £5 per person, with all funds raised going to charity.

We are proud to be supporting the local Banbury Branch of Samaritans and the Rotary Club of Banbury, who will both receive a share of the proceeds from the event.

Samaritans

Samaritans is a charity dedicated to preventing suicide through the power of human connection. They connect people in crisis with trained volunteers who listen without judgment, regardless of background, beliefs, faith, or identity. The charity aims to reduce feelings of isolation and disconnection that can lead to suicide. They also raise awareness of people's experiences, create partnerships, and campaign for suicide prevention. Every hour, every day, every life, they work to prevent suicide by ensuring there is always someone to listen if someone is in crisis or feeling suicidal.

With the extra pressure that the festive season can bring, our worries and fears may seem worse this time of year. It's important you check in on yourself and look after your wellbeing. At Samaritans, they are committed to helping you, however they can. If you don’t feel like there’s anyone you can talk to, their volunteers are there for you. Call free, day or night, on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.

For more information on dealing with the festive season click the links below:

If you’re finding things hard this festive season

Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy

Rotary Club of Banbury

The Rotary Club of Banbury, founded in 1935, continues its long-standing commitment to supporting the local community through charitable initiatives and service projects that make a positive difference across Banbury and beyond.

Donations collected from the Charity Christmas Light Trail will be distributed among local causes — including Katharine House Hospice, Social Eyes, Dogs for the Blind, and local Food Banks.

More details will be revealed soon. Stay tuned on our social media channels as Westminster House is transformed into a winter wonderland once again.