Our Countdown to Christmas

There’s toys, jumpers, shopping, culinary treats, and of course games! It must be Christmas! It’s certainly beginning to feel a lot like it here in Chilworth with plenty of ways for all to join in.

Until 8 December: Children’s Toy Appeal 2025
We are very proud to be working with Southampton City Council once more to support this wonderful initiative and invite our generous community to join us in helping to ensure that all vulnerable children and young people across the Southampton area receive a gift in this season.

The Science Park office is already overflowing with gifts but if you’ve yet to get involved, here’s how:

Select a tag from one of our giving trees (you’ll find one in the foyers of both the Innovation Centre and Benham 5).
Buy an age-appropriate gift for the named recipient (up to the value of £15) and place it unwrapped in a gift bag with the tag you selected.
Bring it into the Science Park office and that’s it! We’ll liaise with Southampton City Council on your behalf to make sure that all presents get to where they are needed.

“The Toy Appeal is about more than gifts - it’s about making sure no child or young person feels forgotten at Christmas. For many Southampton families, this time of year is overwhelming, and a simple act of kindness can bring hope and joy. If you’re able to add an extra gift to your shopping, you’re not just giving a present – you’re generously creating a moment of happiness that could make all the difference to someone’s festive season.”
Councillor Amanda Barnes-Andrews, Cabinet Member for Children and Learning.

Wednesday 10 December, 11.30-14.30: Chilworth Christmas Fair
We are pleased to be working with Dream Empire Events to transform Axis Conference Centre in Venture Road into a Festive Market. We’ve arranged for there to be fabulous food and drink and an array of handmade crafts and unique gifts on offer, courtesy of over 25 local vendors who will be thrilled to see you there. All are welcome – drop in any time!

Thursday 11 December: Christmas Jumper Day
We warmly encourage you all to join the millions of people around the UK who will be raising money for Save the Children this Christmas Jumper Day. In the UK and around the world, Save the Children works to make sure that children stay safe, healthy and keep learning, so they can reach their full potential. Take part simply by wearing your silliest seasonal jumper and making a donation (we’ve made this bit easy via a JustGiving page) but the attire is down to you.

Wednesday 17 December, 15.00-17.00: Christmas Quiz & Fun
We invite all residents to come together and get into the festive spirit in the week before Christmas. Join your fellow residents for a bit of fun, meet some new people, and maybe get a bit competitive putting your Christmas knowledge to the test over a bumper quiz and Rock & Roll Bingo! Festive drinks and nibbles are laid on - all you need to bring is your best Christmas jumper and plenty of festive cheer! If you’ve not signed up already, be quick!