Accrington Christmas Events 2026
Your guide to the best Christmas events in Accrington and nearby
As the nights draw in, the familiar glow of Christmas lights begins to appear across the towns and villages surrounding Accrington, from the bustling town centres to quieter community spaces. Expect to find twinkling displays, traditional markets, and the occasional theatre performance adding to the local atmosphere.
This year, residents can experience the excitement of a light switch-on in Burnley, or venture to Rochdale for the impressive Ignite Fire Festival. For family magic, the Ribble Steam Railway's Santa Special is a popular choice, while Southport offers theatrical delights.
Browse Christmas Near Accrington by Category
Christmas Parties
Five-course dinner with Champagne and live music to welcome the new year
Christmas Shows
Cathedral choristers perform holiday carols, Handel, Bach, and John Rutter.
Christmas Lights
Darwen's festive celebration featuring markets, live music, dance, and food.
Christmas Markets
Festive shopping weekend featuring over 50 local stallholders and live music.
Unique & Unusual Christmas Events
Parade featuring festive characters, live entertainment, and holiday lights switch-on.
Editor's Picks
-
Accrington Christmas Light Switch On
Annual Christmas light switch-on with fireworks and funfair
-
Darwen Christmas Lights Switch On
· Darwen
Darwen's festive celebration featuring markets, live music, dance, and food.
-
Christmas Lights Switch-On Parade
· Bury
Parade featuring festive characters, live entertainment, and holiday lights switch-on.
-
Burnley Believes...And So Do We! Light Switch-On
· Burnley
Community light switch-on with lantern parade and live local talent.
-
East Lancashire Railway Santa Specials
· Bury
Heritage steam train ride through the Irwell Valley with Santa.
-
Ignite Fire Festival and Rochdale Christmas Lights Switch-on
· Rochdale
Dazzling displays and festive switch-on around Rochdale Town Hall.
Events Happening Soon
Accrington Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Christmas Events in Nearby Cities
Accrington Christmas FAQ
What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Accrington?
The main event is the Christmas lights switch-on on Broadway, featuring live music, fireworks, and a festive market. Other highlights include the Accrington Christmas Tree Festival and local holiday markets.
What holiday traditions are unique to Accrington?
Accrington’s traditions include the big lights switch-on with local performers and community choirs, as well as festive events at Oswaldtwistle Mills and Accrington Stanley.
Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Accrington?
The town centre and Broadway are the main areas for festive displays, but many residential neighborhoods also decorate their streets with holiday lights.
Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Accrington?
The main market is on Broadway during the lights switch-on, and local makers often appear at events in Accrington town centre and nearby venues like Oswaldtwistle Mills.
What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Accrington?
The Christmas lights switch-on, neighborhood displays, and free markets on Broadway are great budget-friendly options. Many local events also offer free entertainment and activities.
What are good picks for families with kids in Accrington?
Families can enjoy the lights switch-on, Santa’s grotto at Oswaldtwistle Mills, and festive markets with activities for children. Events often include sing-alongs, crafts, and visits from Santa.
Today's Trending Event
One of today's most-visited holiday events from across the country.
BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley Tour Philadelphia
📍 Philadelphia , PA , United States
BYOB trolley tour of Philadelphia's holiday lights
View Event Details →