Christmas wishes for in-laws USA families love to send at the holidays carry warmth, gratitude, and a little American cheer. Whether you are writing to your mother-in-law in Texas, your father-in-law in Ohio, or your brother-in-law and sister-in-law across the country, the right words can make the family dinner feel even closer. This list brings together heartfelt, funny, and short messages made for American homes, snowy mornings, and long drives home for Christmas. In-laws become family in the truest sense at Christmas. They welcome you to the table, share treasured recipes, cheer for the same football team, and help trim the tree. A thoughtful wish thanks them for that welcome and tells them how much their love means through the year. Use these 45 wishes in a card, a text, a holiday letter, or a toast at the table. Pick one that fits your family, add a personal line about a shared memory, and send it early so it arrives before the turkey is carved and the eggnog is poured. Last up...
Christmas in Bath is one of England's most magical winter experiences. This UNESCO World Heritage city glows as its honey-colored Georgian streets fill with wooden chalets, festive lights, and the scent of mulled wine.
From the award-winning market beneath Bath Abbey to a rooftop thermal spa soak under the stars, few British cities celebrate the season as beautifully.
Here are the 15 best things to do at Christmas in Bath in 2026.
Last updated: September 24, 2026
Jump to: Bath Christmas Market | The Georgian Glow | A Festive Soak at Thermae Bath Spa | Ice Rink & Family Fun | Carols at Bath Abbey | Festive Food & Drink | Plan Your Visit | FAQ
1. Bath Christmas Market
The award-winning market sends more than 200 wooden chalets winding from Abbeygate Street to Milsom Street, beneath Bath Abbey.
1. Browse the Wooden Chalets Around Bath Abbey
The 2026 market runs November 26 to December 13 with free entry and no booking. Hours: 10am to 7pm Mon to Wed, 10am to 8pm Thu to Sat, 10am to 6pm Sun. Go weekday mornings for calm, or after dark when the chalets glow.
2. Meet the Local Makers
Around two-thirds of traders are local, selling ceramics, candles, jewelry, artwork, and artisan food you will not find on a high street.
3. Mulled Wine at The Lodge
The Lodge bar returns for 2026 as a central rest stop for mulled wine or hot cider under the evening lights.
2. The Georgian Glow: Lights & Architecture
Honey-colored stone is stunning year-round, but the Christmas lights turn an evening stroll into the highlight of your trip.
4. Walk the Royal Crescent and The Circus by Night
The Royal Crescent glows in warm white light, and the curved terraces of The Circus look straight out of a Christmas card.
5. Follow the Christmas Tree Carol Trail
Decorated trees hidden around the city center, each with its own musical theme. Collect a trail map and hunt them with the family.
3. A Festive Soak at Thermae Bath Spa
Britain's only natural thermal waters make winter bathing in Bath pure seasonal bliss.
6. The Rooftop Pool at Dusk
The rooftop pool is the signature winter experience: city views as the lights flicker on, steam rising into the cold air. Book early, as Christmas slots sell out.
7. A Twilight Session at the Cross Bath
For something quieter, the historic Cross Bath offers intimate twilight bathing in a candlelit Georgian setting.
4. Ice Rink & Family Fun
Families are spoiled for choice, with festive attractions running beyond the market's December 13 closing date.
8. Skate at Bath on Ice
Bath on Ice returns to Royal Victoria Park with a big outdoor rink, glow mini golf, and a cozy alpine bar, typically mid-November to early January.
9. Ride the Victorian Carousel on Stall Street
Arriving around December 18, the traditional Victorian carousel is a nostalgic delight for children and romantics alike.
10. Visit Santa in His Grotto
Meet Father Christmas in his chalet in the shopping district, early December through Christmas Eve. Book ahead for weekends.
5. Carols at Bath Abbey
The fan-vaulted ceiling and glowing west window create an unforgettable setting for seasonal music.
11. Carol Services at Bath Abbey
The Abbey runs Advent and Christmas services, from traditional carol services to candlelit concerts. Many are free or by donation, but dates fill fast.
12. A Georgian Christmas at No. 1 Royal Crescent
No. 1 Royal Crescent dresses its rooms in authentic 18th-century Christmas style, showing how Bath's fashionable residents celebrated.
6. Festive Food & Drink
Bath's food scene leans into Christmas, from a 1680 tea house to festive street food.
13. Festive Tea at Sally Lunn's
Britain's oldest house serves its legendary Sally Lunn buns with a festive twist in December.
14. Festive Street Food at Kingsmead Square
Kingsmead Square hosts its own seasonal street food market with local performers, Thursday to Sunday. A great lunch escape.
15. The Roman Baths Festive Pop-Up Bar
The Roman Baths get into the spirit with a weekend pop-up bar and a museum shop full of Roman-inspired gifts.
Plan Your Visit
For Families
The market is free, the ice rink and carousel entertain all ages, and the carol trail turns sightseeing into a game.
For Couples
Arrive late afternoon for the market in daylight and stay for the lights, then book an evening spa session and dinner in the Abbey Quarter.
On a Budget
The market, lights walk, carol trail, and Abbey services cost nothing. Take the train to Bath Spa and use Park and Ride instead.
Christmas in Bath: Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Bath Christmas Market open in 2026?
November 26 to December 13, 2026. Hours: 10am to 7pm Mon to Wed, 10am to 8pm Thu to Sat, 10am to 6pm Sun. Entry is free.
Is Bath good at Christmas?
Absolutely. A top Christmas market, Georgian lights, thermal spa bathing, an ice rink, and Abbey carols.
Is the Bath Christmas Market free?
Yes. No admission charge and no booking required.
Where do I park for the Christmas market?
Use the Park and Ride sites at Lansdown, Newbridge, and Odd Down, or arrive by train at Bath Spa station.
Can I do Bath as a day trip from London at Christmas?
Yes. Direct trains from London Paddington reach Bath Spa in about 90 minutes, and the market is a short walk from the station.
What is on in Bath after the market closes?
Bath on Ice, the Victorian carousel, the carol trail, Abbey services, and the illuminated streets typically run into January.
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