November is here and that means only one thing; the countdown to Christmas has begun! There’s no better way to celebrate the lead up to the festive period than with the excitement of Christmas light switch-on events. Throw on some woolie gloves and a hat, indulge in a hot chocolate and some late-night shopping, and you’ve got yourself a perfect evening out!
We’ve rounded up a selection of UK Christmas light switch-on events we think you’ll love!
Regent Street Christmas Light Switch-on
One of London’s biggest Christmas light installations is back from the 15 November. Designed by leading British lighting creatives, James Glancy Design, The Spirit of Christmas is returning for another year to pay tribute to the festive heritage of the shopping district! The switch-on takes place at 5:30pm and the street will close to traffic from 5pm to 9pm. Perfectly timed for a break in your late-night Christmas shopping, more than 300,000 Christmas lights will bring sparkle to the famous London street. Plus, this event includes performances from big-name stars! Previous acts have included Clean Bandit and Paloma Faith.
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Edinburgh Light Night at George Street
Taking place at George Street on Sunday 18 November from 3pm to 5pm is the extravagant Light Night. Hosted by Forth One’s Arlene Stuart, this magical event is free to attend and kicks off the Christmas countdown in style! Encapsulating the true spirit of the festive season, Saskia, who was mentored by Tom Jones while competing on The Voice, will perform and switch-on the lights. In addition, dance groups and choirs from across Scotland will take centre stage during the afternoon. The Christmas Tree on the Mound will also be lit as part of the event and the evening will conclude with a stunning display of fireworks!
Leicester Christmas Light Switch-on
The most wonderful time of the year kicks off in Leicester on Thursday 22 November. Enjoy live music and entertainment from X-Factor winner Sam Bailey, Cbeebies’ Cat Sandion and BBC Radio Leicester’s Martin Ballard as Dame. ITV News Central weather presenter, Des Coleman will help host the stage programme which will be broadcast live on TV. The Lord Mayor and Santa Claus will switch-on the lights at 6:20pm. An Alice in Wonderland theme tableau along with a traditional nativity scene will also feature in the evening’s event. A brass band and Christmas carols will add to the festive spirit around the Town Hall Square!
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Sheffield Christmas Light Switch-on
Taking place in the Peace Gardens on Sunday 18 November is Sheffield’s official light switch-on. Heart Yorkshire presenters will host the event which runs from 2pm until 6:30pm. The illuminations will be switched on at 5:30pm. Entertainment for the afternoon includes choirs, street entertainment, carol singers and Christmas craft activities. Plus, there’s plenty for children to enjoy, with a panto, children’s film and TV characters, Santa’s grotto and fairground rides!
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Belfast Christmas Light Switch-on
Join the Lord Mayor and special guests, Paw Patrol’s Skye and Marshall, Fireman Sam, Norman Price and TV presenter Andy Day at Belfast’s Christmas Light Switch-on. Gates will open at 6pm on Saturday 15 November and the event will begin from 6:30pm until 7:30pm. Q Radio Breakfast presenters Stephen and Cate will host the evening which is jam-packed with musical fun, mini shows and traditional carols. Perfect for the whole family! Plus, the grounds of City Hall will host the award-winning Belfast Christmas Market where you can buy international cuisine, handcrafted goods and bespoke artisan products.
This event is the perfect opportunity for children to post their Christmas wishes to the North Pole, via the post box beside Santa’s Grotto! As long as they remember to include an address and post no later than Sunday 16 December, each child will receive a response from Santa!
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The Christmas light displays don’t stop there! There are lots of festive displays to be seen and enjoyed in the UK. If your preferred city or town isn’t mentioned, simply get in touch with our team who would love to find you somewhere to stay. Call 01775 843417 from Monday to Friday between 9:00am until 5:30pm.