Illustration of a generic other scene (Plymouth City Centre Christmas Lights Switch-On)
Other Christmas Activities

Plymouth City Centre Christmas Lights Switch-On

Visitors can gather at the main stage to enjoy a live entertainment programme featuring performances by local schools, performing arts academies, and band Land of the Giants. The evening culminates in the switching on of the city's Christmas lights by special guests.

What to Expect

Live stage entertainment and switch-on moment on the Piazza.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

City Centre

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Plymouth City Centre Company BID

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and local festive crowds

Vibe

Lively and festive

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Location

The Piazza
Armada Way, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 2AA
Plymouth
PL1 1HH

Know Before You Go

  • Hours: Stage programme from 4pm; St Andrew's Church of England Primary School 4pm to 4.15pm; Boringdon Primary School 4.20pm to 4.35pm; Razzamataz 4.45pm to 5pm; Stage Stars 5.10pm to 5.25pm; Plym Kids 5.35pm to 5.50pm; Plymouth Performing Arts Academy 6pm to 6.20pm; Christmas Lights Switch On 6.25pm to 6.35pm; Land of the Giants 6.40pm to 7.45pm.
  • Accessibility: The event area is paved and flat with sloped access routes, and an accessible viewing area is located on the Piazza by House of Fraser.

Tips & Advice

  • Expect the biggest crowds in the hour around the switch-on, so arrive earlier in the stage programme if you want a spot near the main stage.
  • Head to Civic Square, opposite the Civic Centre, if you need a break from the crowds, as it has quieter areas with benches.
  • Bring a RADAR key if you need the disabled toilets at the sundial on Armada Way, two of which have baby-changing facilities.
  • Look for stewards in white high-vis tabards around the Piazza if you have questions or need help finding your way.
  • Wheelchair users can watch from the accessible viewing area by House of Fraser, but should allow for some sloped routes on the way in.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Land of the Giants play the main stage straight after the lights are switched on.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who's performing on the stage?

St Andrew's Church of England Primary School, Boringdon Primary School, Razzamataz, Stage Stars, Plym Kids and Plymouth Performing Arts Academy all perform. Land of the Giants play after the lights are switched on.

Is there a quieter spot away from the crowds?

Yes. Civic Square, opposite the Civic Centre, has quieter areas with benches.

Where are the nearest toilets?

They're at the sundial on Armada Way. There are three disabled toilets that need a RADAR key, and two of them have baby-changing facilities. The other public toilets there are down a number of steps, and there's a charge to use them.

Is there an accessible viewing area?

Yes, on the Piazza by House of Fraser. The event area is paved and flat, but some routes to it are sloped.

Who can I ask for help on the night?

Stewards in white high-vis tabards will be around the Piazza. For access questions, email Eventaccess@plymouth.gov.uk.

Tags

community celebrationholiday traditionfestive atmospherefamily friendlyfree event

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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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team