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Christmas Light Switch-On Events in Hampshire 2024
Hannah D
October 20, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes
The festive season is getting closer, and Hampshire is gearing up for a series of enchanting Christmas light switch-on events. From bustling markets to lively entertainment, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Here's a guide to all the Christmas light switch-on events across Hampshire. Mark your calendars and get ready to embrace the holiday spirit!
Note: Please double check the times and dates before you arrive, as they might change.
Date: Thursday, 14th November 2024 (event has passed).
Details: The event runs from 4pm to 7pm, with the city’s magical Christmas lights being switched on at 6pm at The Broadway, outside Winchester Guildhall. Join in the fun with live performances from local talent and help kick off the festive season in style!
Date: Friday, 15th November 2024 (event has passed).
On Friday night, from 6pm to 9pm, the main stage by the iconic Bargate will host an array of entertainment and performances, leading up to the city's Christmas lights switch-on and the premiere of the market's light show on the Bargate.
The festive fun continues the next evening, with Carlton Place and Oxford Street coming to life with more seasonal celebrations.
Date: Saturday, 16th November 2024 (event has passed).
Join the festivities in Eastleigh from 6pm as Father Christmas switches on the Christmas lights, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Explore the Christmas Market for unique gifts, visit community stalls along High Street and Market Street, and stop by Eastleigh Baptist Church.
Don’t miss a visit to Em’s Friendly Farm at The Good Companions to meet some adorable animals, perfect for keeping the little ones entertained!
Date: Saturday, 16th November 2024 (event has passed).
Kick off the festive season at the Aldershot Christmas Cracker, featuring over 35 craft, food, and community stalls, a nativity farm, free children’s crafts, and live entertainment across two stages.
The event attracts around 14,000 people each year, with highlights including Father Christmas in his grotto, a giant snow globe, and performances from local brass bands, choirs, and dance schools. The main attraction is the Christmas lights switch-on at 5:15 p.m. in Princes Gardens, accompanied by a short fireworks display and a giant snow machine!
Date: Saturday, 16th November 2024 (event has passed).
Get ready for the return of the fabulous Romsey Winter Carnival, featuring the famous Lantern Parade! Expect a stunning display of lights, music, dancing, and floats. The event kicks off at 6pm, starting at Crossfield Hall and making its way through Romsey Town.
Date: Thursday, 21st November 2024, 5pm to 7pm
The Southsea Christmas Lights Switch-On Party, hosted by Greatest Hits Radio's Mark Collins, promises a festive evening with Portsmouth FC manager John Mousinho, stars from the New Theatre Royal’s Beauty and the Beast, local performers, and a special appearance by Father Christmas.
While enjoying the entertainment, browse the Love Southsea market before the grand finale—the Christmas lights switch on.
Date: Friday, 22nd November 2024, 5:30pm to 7pm
Join the festive spirit at Cosham Carols on Cosham High Street, hosted by Greatest Hits Radio's Mark Collins. Enjoy performances from Portsmouth FC heroes, local community choirs, and a special appearance by Father Christmas.
Date: Friday, November 2024
Andover's festive celebration will feature three stages of live performances, children's activities, a Christmas market, street theatre, and festive refreshments. The Guildhall Stage will showcase local choirs, community groups, and popular bands, with the Christmas lights being switched on at 7pm by special guests. Children can enjoy free face painting and funfair rides and meet Father Christmas at the Chantry Centre's new Christmas Grotto.
The Christmas Market will offer a variety of gifts from local businesses, while classic carols fill the air. Enjoy food and drinks at local restaurants and the Town Mills Riverside Park, where live music will be performed.
Date: Friday, 22nd November 2024
The Christmas lights will be switched on at 5pm at the Assembly Rooms with special guests in attendance. Visitors can enjoy a variety of food and drink stalls, a family fun fair, and a wide selection of commercial and charity stalls along the High Street and inside the Assembly Rooms. Children can meet Father Christmas and the Ice Queen.
Date: Saturday, 23rd November 2024, 4pm to 6pm
Hosted by Greatest Hits' Mark Collins, the event will feature stars from the Kings Theatre’s Dick Whittington, including Lorraine Stanley (Eastenders) and George Sampson (Britain’s Got Talent), Portsmouth FC heroes, local performers, and a special visit from Father Christmas.
Enjoy the excitement on stage, shop at the Portsmouth Christmas Market and We Create Market, and prepare for the spectacular Christmas lights switch-on. Afterward, head to Victoria Park for the We Shine Portsmouth light installations. Join the festivities on Saturday, 23rd November, from 4 to 6pm.
Date: Saturday, 23rd November 2024
The Christmas lights will be switched on at 5:30pm, with a festive atmosphere featuring a Christmas market, children's activities, fun fair rides, food and drink, and street and stage performers. This year’s Christmas market, hosted by Funyard Events, will be held indoors.
Date: Wednesday, 27th November 2024
The event includes a large Christmas market, Christmas lights switch on, local entertainment and a selection of food, drinks and festive gifts.
Date: Friday, 29th November 2024, From 5pm.
Date: Saturday, 30th November 2024
Join the festive fun at Gosport High Street's Christmas Market and Light Switch-On event! Explore market stalls filled with seasonal delights and unique gifts, enjoy mulled wine and festive treats, and take in live entertainment.
The Christmas lights will be switched on at 6pm, lighting up the street and kicking off the holiday season with joy and cheer.
Date: Saturday, 30th November 2024
The Christmas lights will be switched on at 6pm near the Mailmans PH. Please note, the High Street from the Romsey Road junction will be closed to traffic from 5:45pm to 6:30pm.
Date: Saturday, 30th November 2024
Join the festive fun at the Yateley Christmas Market on Saturday, 30th November, from 3:00 to 6:00pm at Church End Green (by the Dog & Partridge Pub). Enjoy the Christmas lights switch-on, carol singing, performances by school choirs, and a range of amusements. Browse gift and food stalls, indulge in Christmas goodies, and experience much more at this magical event!
Date: Sunday, 1st December 2024
The festivities begin at 11:30am with Santa's departure from the Long Stay Car Park to The Furlong Shopping Centre, offering a chance to grab a photo with him and his sleigh! The second parade starts at 5:45pm, leading to the Market Place where Santa will switch on the Christmas lights at 6pm, illuminating the town in festive glory.
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