For a lot of people the Christmas lights switch on marks the start of the holiday season and is one of the most anticipated events of the year around all of the UK! Thousands of people head into the city centre to be part of the festive fun. Carry on reading to find out when and where the lights will be switched on in a city near you. Most acts and celebrity guests are still to be confirmed, but one famous face you can be sure to see at all of them is, of course, Father Christmas, so get yourself down and start this year’s festive celebrations! It’s never too early to get these dates in your diary….

London

6th November – Oxford Street lights. An evening of pure magic! The must-see Oxford Street Christmas lights include new purple baubles among the 1,178 decorations covering the famous shopping street.

8th November – Carnaby Street Christmas is going to be illuminated with the lyrics of Bohemian Rhapsody from November till January with the main event happening on the 8th November including special discounts in the shops, bars and restaurants as well as the all important switch on.

Birmingham

15th November  – Birmingham City Council have confirmed that the big moment with coincide with the day on which the German Christmas Markets start.

Manchester

3rd November – The magical firework display and light switch on returns to Albert Square this Christmas and will include performances from stars of the stage and screen such as Jonas Blue, Max
George, Cast from Wicked, Dr Doolittle and The Producers. The night will end with the famous huge 10 minute firework display.

Plymouth

15th November – The dazzling switch on in Plymouth launches the Christmas countdown and marks the start of late night shopping on Thursdays which is perfect if you’re hunting for the perfect gift!

Chorley

18th November  – The main stage will be hosted on Market Street with performances from the best acts from Chorley Live, the Sing It Big choir and a special celebrity guest.

Lytham

18th November – Collabro will headline Lytham Christmas Lights Switch On this year along with a jam packed programme of music and festive fun!

Bolton

22nd November – Let Bolton light up your night at a free fun filled festive family Christmas light switch on.

Liverpool

8th November – The count down to Christmas officially begins at 4pm that day with festive street performances, including storytelling,  dancing, singing, and lots of special effects just before the iconic 30 metre tree is lit up at 6pm!

Preston

25th November – The annual event returns to flag market with music from acts that include Union J and Steve McFadden who plays Phil Mitchell in Eastenders.

Southport

18th November – Southport is offering a full day and night of entertainment and is set to sparkle with festive fun. Live children’s entertainment throughout the afternoon, meeting Santa and his reindeers, attractions, rides and much more!!!