The Christmas countdown is on: Northampton’s Lights Switch-On returns to Market Square!

*This event has now been rescheduled to Saturday 30th November due to weather conditions*

It’s that time of year again—the nights are getting longer, the air crisper, and Northampton’s Christmas Lights Switch-On is just around the corner. Mark your calendars because next Saturday, 23rd November, the Market Square will transform into a festive wonderland from 12–6pm, kicking off the Christmas festivities in style.

Hosted by Northampton Town Council, the event is jam-packed with yuletide cheer for all ages. Expect live stage performances, local produce and gift stalls, creative workshops, a festive bar (yes, mulled wine enthusiasts, this one’s for you), and a family-friendly Silent Disco. It’s the perfect chance to soak up the Christmas vibes, enjoy some seasonal treats, and maybe even tick a few items off your gift list.

Entertainment to Get You in the Spirit

From midday, BBC Radio Northampton’s Bernie Keith will keep the festive energy flowing with a free afternoon of entertainment. There’s something for everyone: children’s entertainers, toe-tapping tunes from The Nene Valley Community Band, and harmonies courtesy of the Northampton Male Voice Choir and The Starlight Sisters. But wait—there’s more! Local stars Born to Perform will grace the stage, along with a sneak peek from the Royal Theatre’s Christmas show, The Jolly Postman, and even a cheeky performance by breakdancing elves (because why not?).

And speaking of stars, a glittering lineup of Panto royalty will be there to add some sparkle to the occasion. CBeebies favourite Andy Day, Britain’s Got Talent’s Ashley with Sully the dog, and TV actors Chris Wills and Colin Ridgewell are just a few of the names set to take the stage. They’ll be joined by Santa himself, the Mayor of Northampton, and a few special guests for the grand finale—the big switch-on at 5pm.

Lighting Up the Town

This year, the festivities are going up a notch. As Cllr Jane Birch, Chair of the Community Services Committee, explains: “We’re thrilled to bring the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On to the newly refurbished Market Square. This year, we’ve added new lights to the town centre and Wellingborough Road, and we’re looking forward to creating an even more magical atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.”

The dazzling lights will illuminate the Market Square, All Saints’ Piazza, Guildhall Square, Abington Square, and Becket’s Park. But the holiday spirit doesn’t stop there—this year’s upgraded lighting is part of a multi-year plan to make Northampton shine brighter than ever.

Meet Santa and More Festive Fun

What’s Christmas without a little face time with the big man in red? Santa will set up shop in his grotto at the Grosvenor Centre, launching alongside the switch-on event on 23rd November. He’ll be there every Saturday and Sunday in December (plus Monday 23rd) from 10.30am–4pm. Tickets are available through the Northampton Town Centre BID website, so don’t miss out!

And if you’re hungry for more festive fun, make sure to head to Becket’s Park on Saturday, 7th December, when it transforms into a Winter Wonderland for the day. Think ice rinks, horse and carriage rides, a Christmas bandstand, stalls, and another Silent Disco. Entry is free, but activities like face painting, funfair rides, and festive treats will have a small charge.

Plan Your Festive Adventure

Whether you’re here for the lights, the music, or just an excuse to sip mulled wine in public, Northampton’s Christmas Lights Switch-On is the perfect way to dive into the holiday season. Bring your friends, bring your family—and don’t forget your Christmas jumper!

For full event details, visit the Northampton Town Council website or follow them on social media:

🌐 www.northamptontowncouncil.gov.uk/christmas2024
📱 Facebook: @NorthamptonTC
📸 Instagram: @northampton_tc

Let the countdown to Christmas begin!