The Askham Xmas Fayre 2025 was a joyful celebration that brought our community together for a day of festive activities, local stalls, seasonal food and special moments with Santa and the reindeer. With families, residents, visitors and stall holders joining us despite the chilly weather, it was a wonderful event that captured the spirit of Christmas at Askham. Read below to discover the highlights of this year’s Fayre and the moments that made it so special.
A magical Xmas Fayre at Askham
The Fayre transformed Askham Village Community into a lively festive hub, with each area offering something different to enjoy. Visitors explored colourful stalls, shared warm conversations and soaked in the joyful atmosphere that filled the site from morning to afternoon. Christmas music, happy chatter and the buzz of activity created a wonderful sense of togetherness, making this much-loved Xmas Fayre in Cambridgeshire another unforgettable edition.
Festive stalls, handmade gifts and seasonal treats
This year’s Fayre featured a fantastic variety of stalls offering:
• handmade crafts
• Christmas decorations
• thoughtful gifts
• sweet treats and bakes
• books and unique finds
• multiple tombolas full of festive surprises
Visitors also enjoyed delicious seasonal dishes prepared by Askham’s own chef, adding an extra touch of warmth and flavour to the event. The combination of local stall holders and in-house festive food made the Fayre a lovely place to browse, shop and socialise.
Reindeer, Santa’s Grotto and carols: Highlights of the day
A truly magical moment was the arrival of two reindeer, who captivated guests throughout the day and created memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. Santa’s Grotto welcomed families steadily, spreading festive joy one visit at a time.
Ryan Jarvis Photography was a real hit, with visitors enjoying the chance to book 15-minute photography slots and take home beautifully printed photo packages as lasting keepsakes of the day.
Meanwhile, the carols in the café brought everyone together in a warm moment of seasonal cheer, creating a cosy highlight that many described as one of the loveliest parts of the event.
A team effort
The Fayre was brought to life by the dedication of Kelly Hayes and Ella Cuthbert, both Activities Coordinators at Askham.
Reflecting on the day, Kelly Hayes said: “Seeing our residents smiling, the excitement around the reindeer and everyone enjoying themselves made every moment of preparation worth it. The carols in the café were one of my favourite parts of the day, full of warmth and togetherness.”
Their hard work, creativity and commitment helped shape a truly memorable event.
Sharing her own thoughts, Ella Cuthbert added: “The support from families, residents, visitors and stall holders was incredible. It felt like such a special community moment. It brings us such pride to organise an event that brings so much joy and creates memories people treasure.”
Community at the heart of the Fayre
The wider team also expressed their appreciation.
Mavrick Leveille, Associate Director of Operations and Quality, said: “This year’s Fayre was a fantastic reminder of the strength and heart of our community. Community is one of our core values at Askham, and bringing residents, families, visitors and our wider community together today truly reflected that. I want to thank the Activities Team, our team members, our residents and their families, the stall holders and everyone who came along. It was a wonderful celebration of connection and togetherness.”
His words reflect the gratitude felt across Askham for everyone who helped make this event so special.
Season’s Greetings and upcoming community events
As we close the 2025 edition of the Askham Xmas Fayre, we send our warmest wishes for a joyful and peaceful festive season spent with loved ones.
We are delighted to invite our community to the next festive gathering:
Christmas Bingo Night at Doddington Village Hall, taking place on Sunday, 7th December, with doors opening at 6.30pm. The evening promises plenty of fun, excitement and festive spirit.
Save the date: Askham Summer Fayre 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, planning is already underway for our next major community celebration. The Askham Summer Fayre will take place on 1st August 2026, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back for another fantastic day filled with community, connection and summer fun.
From all of us at Askham Village Community, thank you for being part of such a special and memorable Christmas Fayre.