Football and tonnes of festive fun is available in Southampton and the surrounding area this weekend. 

Here's our top tips of ways to keep the family entertained this weekend (December 16 and 17) as we draw ever closer to Christmas.

At St Mary's Stadium...

Daily Echo: Saints showed how far they've come under Martin with a comprehensive win over Cardiff City

Saints play their last match prior to Christmas at St Mary's at 3pm on Saturday. taking on Blackburn Rovers in the Sky Bet Championship.

They aim to make it 14 matches unbeaten following a 1-1 draw against Coventry City in midweek. 

It follows a comfortable 2-0 victory for Russell Martin's men over Cardiff City in the last home fixture. 

Tickets are still available with Junior Saints members able to secure a ticket for the fixture for just £1.

At Romsey Abbey...

Daily Echo: The Snowman will be played at various cathedrals and places of worship, including Romsey Abbey

A live orchestra with Romsey Abbey boy choristers accompany the much loved and very popular film The Snowman on Saturday at 4.30pm and 6pm.

Following a night of heavy snowfall, a young boy named James wakes up and plays in the snow, eventually building a large snowman. At the stroke of midnight, he sneaks downstairs to find the snowman magically comes to life.

The Snowman is a 1982 British animated television film and symphonic poem based on Raymond Briggs's 1978 picture book The Snowman. 

The story is told through pictures, action and music, scored by Howard Blake. It has no words, with the exception of the central song, Walking in the Air. 

In Southampton...

Daily Echo: Christmas

Southampton Christmas Market is bigger and better than ever before in 2023 with brilliant rides, selection of festive stalls selling Christmas gifts plus food, drink and entertainment.

The traditional market features individually designed alpine chalets with more than 30 independent stallholders offering a range of hand-made, authentic gifts including candles, clothing and jewellery as well as handcrafted Christmas decorations.

Also enjoy plenty of Christmas magic with a light projection show, high-octane rides and a Christmas Fun House.

Westquay once again hosts a seasonal ice rink. 

At Mayflower Theatre...

Daily Echo: The Magnificent Seven - Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Southampton 2023

Panto season is in full swing in Southampton and thousands are enjoying the show the Daily Echo described as 'the fairest pantomime of them all' in its review this week. 

Ashley Banjo and Diversity and Christopher Biggins star in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

There's an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes, and stunning scenery.

Throw in a magical mirror, the magnificent seven and plenty of audience participation and you have the perfect recipe to outwit the Wicked Queen and let love prevail in this glittering festive treat for all ages.

The show runs until Sunday, December 31.

At Hampshire country parks...

Daily Echo: Enjoy a festive trail

Join The Snowman and The Snowdog on a winter wander around some of Hampshire’s most spectacular country parks.

Make your way around River Hamble Country Park and Staunton Country Park, completing themed activities as you go. Inspired by the hit sequel to Raymond Briggs’ much-loved classic, this festive adventure is suitable for all the family. 

Royal Victoria Country Park is one of the settings where you can join Peter Rabbit and friends on a festive adventure.

Make your way around, completing themed activities as you go, inspired by Beatrix Potter's beloved characters like Peter Rabbit, Flopsy, and Benjamin Bunny.