Is it too early to start thinking about Christmas in Rutland?

While some residents and self-proclaimed 'Scrooges' have answered a resounding 'yes' to this question following the opening of the Gates Christmas display last weekend, many local businesses, event organisers and Christmas-lovers are already getting in the spirit.

Being a county that is home to a host of small and independent businesses, Rutland tends to hail any and all talk of Christmas early, as local creatives, producers, restaurants and businesses begin to produce and welcome stock in plenty of time for the array of Christmas markets, fairs and shopping and family fun days that take place on the run up to the festive season.

The Gates Christmas display 2023 is up and running. Image credit: Nub News.

It certainly isn't too early for the team at Uppingham School Sports Centre either, who are busy working behind the scenes preparing for their Christmas Fun Day.

This year, they are inviting local businesses to have a stall at the fun day, which will take place Sunday 17 December.

If you would be interested in having a stall at the festive fun day then, get in touch with the team via [email protected].

Rutland Farm Park is also getting ready for Christmas, with a range of events taking place on the lead up the the festive period, including Afternoon Tea with Santa, Festive Cookie Decoration, Christmas Wreath Making and more.

Take a look at the range of events going on at Rutland Farm Park this autumn and Christmas 2023. Image credit: Rutland Farm Park.

Rutland Garden Village will also be expecting a visit from Santa himself, and The Barnsdale will be hosting two Big Party Nights following their take over and refurbish.

The Old Buttercross will also be hosting a Christmas Party Night, and tickets are already on sale.

Slightly further afield, Stamford Corn Exchange will be hosting a Christmas Adventure with Goldilocks and the Three Bears, an their annual panto, which this year will be Aladdin.

There are events going on across Stamford and Rutland ahead of the festive period. Image credit: Nub News.

As well as events already on the cards, small businesses such as Laura's Little Bakes, who are getting orders in for Christmas so that they can get organised and you don't miss out on a festive treat or two.

Laura said: "Small businesses know that it's super early to be thinking about Christmas, but I know there are people who like to get things booked early!"

Laura is creating dipping platters, chocolate bombs and more for Christmas, and they are always a favourite on Christmas Eve, particularly for families.

A host of other local businesses and event organisers are getting organised for Christmas in advance, so although it feels too soon to be thinking about 'the most wonderful time of the year', owners and creatives have encouraged residents to be patient, consider how busy they can get on the run up to the festive period and to book early to avoid disappointment.

If you aren't feeling festive yet though, check out our What's On page for a host of Halloween events on the horizon in and around Oakham.

This is where you can also share your own events for free and give your attendance a little boost. Just click the 'Nub It' button and get sharing.

We look forward to hearing from you.