Illustration of a lit evergreen tree with a gold star and red baubles as small townsfolk gather in a snowy village at night (Leicester’s Christmas Lights Switch on)

Leicester’s Christmas Lights Switch on

Visitors can watch thousands of festive lights illuminate the city, anchored by the illuminated Clock Tower Christmas tree and the Wheel of Light Ferris wheel. The event features street performers including stilt walkers, giant polar bears, and drumming troupes, alongside funfair rides and market stalls. Town Hall Square hosts a variety of musical entertainment, featuring traditional brass bands, carol choirs, and Taiko drummers.

Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

news.leicester.gov.uk

When

Hours

5pm until 8pm; switch-ons at the Clock Tower from 6.30pm, at Haymarket Shopping Centre from 6.45pm, and at Highcross from 7pm.

Food & Drink

The Christmas Market on Gallowtree Gate offers food alongside seasonal goods.

Going?

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and christmas shoppers

Vibe

Festive and lively

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Use the online festive trail map to locate the key Christmas attractions and plan a route between the switch-on points.
  • Choose where to watch the countdowns in advance: they take place at the Clock Tower, Haymarket Shopping Centre and Highcross.
  • Head to Town Hall Square for festive musical performances, which begin at 5pm on switch-on night.
  • Follow the SPARK! World Beaters drummers to move between the evening’s activities and the three switch-on locations.
  • Dress warmly for an evening outdoors as the celebrations and attractions are spread across the city centre.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Dame ‘Betty Bonbon’ makes a special appearance on switch-on night.
  • Jubilee Square becomes a festive winter garden instead of hosting a temporary ice rink.
  • A free Christmas in Leicester competition offers prizes from across the city.

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can families see and do during the celebration?

There are musical performances, street entertainers, fairground rides, festive market stalls and three light switch-on moments across the city centre.

Who is the event suitable for?

The celebration is aimed at families and Christmas shoppers.

What food and drink is available?

The Christmas Market on Gallowtree Gate offers seasonal goods and food.

What is planned for Jubilee Square this year?

It will become a festive winter garden rather than hosting a temporary ice rink.

Where can I find a map of Christmas attractions?

A festive trail map showing key attractions and other seasonal activities is available online through Visit Leicester.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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