Discover 16 verified christmas lights in Preston and nearby areas.
Welcome to my guide for Preston Christmas lights and holiday displays. If you're looking for festive cheer in Preston, you'll find plenty of options to brighten your winter evenings with twinkling light displays and seasonal walks.
Some of the most beloved displays include the city centre switch-on and a few neighborhood favorites that light up the streets each December. You'll also find walking trails and drive-through lights near Preston, perfect for a family outing or a cozy evening stroll.
This guide covers free displays, ticketed events, and both drive-through and walkable options. Whether you're exploring on foot or by car, there's something here to help you discover the magic of holiday lights and make the most of your visit.
Father Christmas visits each child on a steam train.
Embark on a magical journey with the Ribble Steam Railway's Santa Specials. Families can create cherished memories aboard a warm, steam-heated carriage, enjoying festive fun and excitement. Father Christmas himself will visit each child on the train to present a...
Festive steam train ride to meet Santa.
Embark on a enchanting journey aboard the West Lancashire Light Railway's Santa Specials. Children will delight in a magical steam train ride to Toyland, where they'll meet Father Christmas and receive a special gift. Adults can savor a warming glass...
Headline act Kelly Llorenna and festive markets
Join the vibrant Darwen Christmas Lights Switch On & Festive Markets 2025 for a day filled with holiday cheer. The event features a headline performance by Kelly Llorenna, alongside Britain's Got Talent finalist Steve Royle and Father Christmas. Enjoy festive...
Meet Santa Claus and receive a gift in a magical grotto experience.
Step into a winter wonderland at Pleasure Beach Resort's Christmas Grotto. Children will embark on a magical journey guided by elves, decorating a bauble and collecting a magic key. The highlight is meeting Santa Claus himself, who will present each...
Six miles of free, world-famous light displays.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the Blackpool Illuminations, a world-renowned spectacle that transforms the seafront into a dazzling wonderland. Stretching for six miles, this free light show features over a million bulbs, creating a magical atmosphere with traditional festoons, captivating...
Free festival of light artworks in Mesnes Park
Prepare for Light Night Wigan, a breathtaking free festival transforming Mesnes Park into a wonderland of light. This annual event showcases stunning illuminations and artistic installations, highlighting the creativity of local artists and the community. It's a magical experience designed...
Festive village on Tower Festival Headland
This winter, Blackpool's Tower Festival Headland will be transformed into a breathtaking festive village. From late November through early January, visitors can immerse themselves in a magical holiday atmosphere. While specific details are still being unwrapped, the event promises a...
Magical walking adventure with Santa and elves.
Step into a magical Christmas journey at Farmer Ted's Adventure Farm's spectacular Farmer Christmas event. Walk through Santa's winter wonderland, visit his workshop, and meet Father Christmas himself. Engage in festive activities like decorating gingerbread and making reindeer food, all...
Community light switch-on with lantern parade and live local talent.
Join the community in Burnley for a day of festive celebration culminating in the magical Light Switch-On. Experience a vibrant lantern parade, enjoy live performances from local talent, and partake in free family activities like crazy golf and a fun...
Award-winning real ice rink and Giant Tipi Bar
Lancaster on Ice returns to Dalton Square, transforming the heart of the city into a winter wonderland. This award-winning event features an expansive real ice rink, a vibrant Christmas market with unique artisan stalls, and the cozy Giant Tipi Bar....
Magical steam train journey with Santa Claus
All aboard the East Lancashire Railway's Santa Specials for an unforgettable Christmas adventure! Families will journey through a festive wonderland, meeting colorful characters and enjoying onboard entertainment. Santa himself will visit each carriage, bringing a special gift for every child....
Two distinct indoor Christmas trails with themed rooms
Step into a world of festive magic at Totally Christmas Walkden, an enchanting indoor attraction perfect for the whole family. Explore two distinct trails, each featuring an hour of immersive, themed rooms. From classic tales like 'A Christmas Carol' and...
Free light art trail and community parade in Morecambe Bay
Baylight Morecambe transforms the scenic promenade into a dazzling spectacle of light art. This free event features captivating installations from artists worldwide, offering a unique opportunity to engage with art hands-on and be part of a vibrant community parade. It's...
Illuminated safari trail with glowing animal installations
Step into a winter wonderland at Knowsley Safari's Enchanted event. This immersive experience transforms the park into a magical realm of light and enchantment with a dazzling illuminated trail. Discover glowing animal installations, enjoy festive treats by crackling fire pits,...
Spectacular fire art installations and Christmas lights switch-on.
Experience the magic of the Ignite Fire Festival and the Rochdale Christmas Lights Switch-on. This spectacular event transforms Rochdale Gardens with dazzling fire displays, glowing installations, and a captivating sound and light show. Witness unique art pieces like 'Bubbles of...
Magical Christmas theme park with Santa, rides, and light festival.
Step into a winter wonderland at Gulliver's Warrington this Christmas! Experience the enchantment of the Land of Lights Festival with dazzling lantern displays. Embark on the North Pole Express to meet Santa Claus and select a gift from his workshop....
See the location of all christmas lights around Preston and nearby areas
Open Map →The Preston Christmas lights switch-on in the city centre is a highlight, and several neighborhoods feature festive walking trails and light displays. Some local parks and shopping areas also host seasonal light installations.
Yes, Preston offers both drive-through and walkable light displays. The city centre switch-on is best enjoyed on foot, while some local parks and neighborhoods feature drive-through options for a cozy viewing experience.
Preston Christmas lights usually go live in late November, with the main switch-on event happening around the third week of the month. Many displays remain lit through early January.
Yes, many Christmas light displays in Preston are free to view, including the city centre switch-on and several neighborhood displays. Some special events or themed trails may require a ticket.