Kick off the festive season in style at the Riverside Winter Fair

This free, family-friendly event, promises a day of festive cheer with food, arts, crafts, games, music, and a big dose of community spirit.

This event has been funded by UK Government via Pembrokeshire Council, with additional funding from Haverfordwest Town Council and Haverfordwest Chamber of Commerce.

The festivities will kick off at 11am with the opening of Haverhub’s Winter Market. Visitors can browse a variety of stalls 11am to 5pm, offering unique gifts, crafts, and delicious food. Alongside the market, Haverfordwest’s Business Circle are hosting a "Taste of Pembrokeshire" food and drink market on Castle Square 11am to 5pm, offering a delicious selection of local produce.

Fair Play will be hosting a Board Game Sketch Fest at the Edge Youth Centre / Picton Centre from 11:00am to 5:00pm. This event will feature a variety of games, activities, and art projects, providing a fun and engaging experience for children of all ages.  

At 12pm Midday children from Haverfordwest’s primary schools will be showing off banners they’ve been making as part of a community arts project, telling the story of the history of their school’s ward area. They will take part in a vibrant parade led by the South Wales Police Band, marching through the town centre from Swan Square to the Old Quay. Join us at 11:45am on Swan Square to join the parade!

Once the parade reaches the Old Quay, the real fun begins. The main stage will host a variety of performances throughout the day from 12-4pm and Bristol Trader will be hosting an outdoor bar.

Entertainment on the main stage will include a brand-new cantata performed by Fenton School's children's choir, the Cantabile Singers of Pembrokeshire, the County Orchestra and the South Wales Police Brass Band. This captivating performance will tell the story of Haverfordwest's rich history, drawing inspiration from recent archaeological discoveries.

Following the cantata, local band Sorted will take to the stage, delivering a high-energy performance of Ska and Two-Tone classics. Their energetic and breakneck live sets are guaranteed to get you up on your feet and dancing.

Artists Neil Musson and Jono Retallick will also be launching their model hot air balloon, a floating gallery and homage to the people of Haverfordwest. Find them floating through the town throughout the day!

For those seeking thrills, there will be fairground rides to enjoy. Thrill-seekers of all ages can experience the excitement of Pembrokeshire Attractions funfair and rides. To add to the magic, Santa Claus will be making a special appearance, along with Sparkle the Elf and Friends a Giant Snow Globe and Bouncy Castle!

And for the grand finale Pure West Radio, Haverfordwest town Council and Riverside Shopping Haverfordwest will be hosting its annual Christmas Lights Switch On event. The celebrations begin at 12:00pm, leading up to the grand moment when the town's Christmas lights illuminate at 6:00pm! As the town illuminates with festive lights, a spectacular fireworks display will light up the night sky.

The Riverside Winter Fair is more than just an event; it's a celebration of community spirit. Local businesses and volunteers coming together to create a memorable experience for everyone.

Visit our website and sign up to the mailing list for full information delivered to your inbox ahead of the big day: www.riversidewinterfair.co.uk

Programme of events

11am-5pm     Winter Market @ Haverhub

11am-5pm     Taste of Pembrokeshire food and drink market @ Castle Square

11am-5pm     Board Game Sketch Fest @ Picton Centre

11:45am         Banner Parade assembles with South Wales Police Brass Band @ Swan Square

12noon           Children’s Banner Parade from Swan Square to Old Quay

12:10pm         Entertainment on Main Stage @ Old Quay

12-5pm           BBQ and outdoor bar @ The Bristol Trader

12-6pm           Family fun & Entertainment, Pure West Radio @ Riverside shopping Centre

6pm                Switch on of the lights and fireworks display.