December at Stroud Brewery has a special kind of magic.
The dark evenings and crisp winter air make the warmth inside our venue feel even more inviting, and there’s nothing quite like seeing friends and families gather around a pint, sharing stories over a meal, or letting loose to the beat of live music. It’s in these moments – smiles bouncing across the room, shared rhythms, quiet connections over a plate of food – that the heart of the brewery comes alive.
This year, our December programme has been carefully shaped around our ethos: community, connection, and accessibility. Music, dance, and celebration should be open to all, which is why most of our gigs are free or very low-cost, and even our flagship New Year’s Eve party, Melting Pot -The Global Dancefloor, is just £10 in advance, including a free pint. Everyone should be able to join in, sing, dance, and toast together – awkward moves fully encouraged.
Music has a remarkable power to unite. From the samba rhythms of Simbora Samba Band to the genre-bending sets from Stroud Global Beats & DJ LMSKN, plus my own Bhangra set as Sauce, these nights aren’t just parties – they’re celebrations of cultural richness, migration, and unity. Shared music brings people together in ways words sometimes can’t.
Shared meals and drinks amplify that togetherness. Our Stroud Christmas Social gives freelancers, sole traders, small teams, or anyone craving festive cheer a hearty hot Christmas buffet, a welcome drink, and a cozy space to connect. Meanwhile, in our downstairs restaurant, we’ve added festive treats like the Christmas Turkey Burger – a turkey patty with Brie, cranberry relish, and ale onions in a toasted brioche bun – and the Winter Woods Arancini, three crisp golden arancini of wild mushrooms and Old Winchester, served with truffle mayo. Add hot mince pies, warming glasses of mulled wine, spiced cider, or a pint of our winter ales like Dark Skies or Red Wood, and you’ve got a festive experience that brings friends, family, and community together.
Tony Soulprano Pic: Ike Colman
This month’s music programme is designed to be welcoming and accessible. Free Entry shows like Some Voices Choir on December 15th invites families and friends for an evening of beautiful harmonies, while the Bob Porter Project’s Christmas Matinee on December 20th offers a festive afternoon of tunes and seasonal cheer. Utrillo Jazz Trio on Christmas Eve, continues the spirit with live piano led jazz, mulled drinks, mince pies, and an atmosphere that feels like a warm hug. It’s like a gentle homecoming: familiar faces, easy conversations, shared memories, and music that wraps around you like a well-loved jumper.
Pic: Ike Colman
On the 19th MLC return with their annual party, bringing energy that old school ravers won’t want to miss. Los Pelicanos on the night of December 20th offers an evening of lively rock covers and classics, and Stroud Brewery Keeps The Faith on December 27th is one of Stroud’s most multi-generational club nights, where timeless Northern Soul tracks meet fresh faces, creating a vibrant atmosphere full of shared rhythm and joy.
Then, of course, there’s New Year’s Eve. Melting Pot -The Global Dancefloor isn’t just a party; it’s the culmination of everything we value: community, culture, and joy. From Samba to Latin Bass, Afrobeat to Bhangra and Cumbia, the music tells stories of migration, connection, and celebration, all under one roof. With the brewery buzzing, the dancefloor alive, and pints in hand, it’s a night to remember – a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and the strength of community in every shared moment.
And there’s our Christmas market! Stroud Brewery Christmas Craft Market on Sunday 7th December, 10am – 4pm, in the Balcony Bar & The Loft, brings together local makers crafting gifts with heart and creativity – the kind you won’t find in supermarkets. Lush plants and florals, vibrant textiles, handmade decorations, delicate stained glass, and hand-crafted soaps, oils, and perfumes make this a treasure trove for thoughtful gifts and festive browsing.
We’re always thrilled to provide a space for local makers to showcase their wares, helping them reach new audiences and supporting the wider community. And for those hunting the perfect gift, Stroud Brewery has plenty of options: brand new merch just in time for Christmas, packs of organic cans, cozy hoodies and beanies, and tickets to gigs, which make brilliant presents and experiences to look forward to in 2026. No winter adventure is complete without a little refreshment – sip an organic pint or warm up with mulled wine as you browse, chat, and soak up the joyous, community-filled atmosphere.
December at Stroud Brewery isn’t just a month of events; it’s a story of togetherness, accessibility, and joy. From free-entry gigs to low-cost socials, multi-generational soul nights, a global NYE dancefloor, festive meals, and a magical Christmas market, our venue is alive with warmth, music, and connection – a place where everyone is welcome, and the holiday spirit shines brightest.
