The temperature has dropped, frost has crept upon the window sill, and every blanket you own has emerged from the depths of your cupboard – it’s Christmas time. If you aren’t quite feeling Christmasy yet, then why not head along to a Christmas light switch on in the North this winter? With hot chocolate (and mulled wine), tasty food, and the all-important dazzling lights on display, there’ll be Christmas cheer all around at each of these fantastic festive events!
Merseyside
Chavasse Park
When: Friday 7 November
Nearest station: Liverpool Lime Street
Chavasse Park’s illustrious Christmas tree will again be lighting up the dour nights of Liverpool with its neon lights. Liverpool One also has plenty of festive events on throughout November and December, providing a Winter Wonderland for the whole family to get involved in. Check out the full range of Christmas activities on the Liverpool page.
Prescot
When: Saturday 15 November
Nearest station: Prescot
With live music from the vibrant The Dolly Popz playing all your favourite hits and Claire Hannah hosting, Prescot is the place to be in Merseyside for a sensational festive switch on this year. Enjoy the live entertainment as well as a range of delicious food in a more intimate setting than the large cities. Starting from 3pm, the good times will keep on rolling right on through to 7pm, with special festive guest appearances from Santa, the Grinch, and some very acrobatic elves.
North & West Yorkshire
Skipton
When: Sunday 30 November
Nearest station: Skipton
Although not the first thought in many people’s minds when searching for a Christmas light switch on, the market town of Skipton puts its all into creating a spectacular show of lights, local music artists, and Christmas cheer.
The lights are switched on at 5pm; however, the events start from 10am, giving you plenty to enjoy throughout the day. Events like the Santa Fun Run and the Christmas market will be available. Make your way to Skipton with ease on a Northern train and enjoy a whole day of Christmas fun.
Horsforth
When: Saturday 6 December
Nearest station: Horsforth
Another local, community-led project, the Horsforth light switch-on makes its popular return after a successful last few years. The switch on will happen at the end of a full day of fun, including live music, Santa's Grotto, special guests, food & drink, and of course a Christmas market. Horsforth is a great way to enjoy a festive spectacle with small village vibes that builds a great community.
South Yorkshire & Derbyshire
Rotherham
When: Saturday 15 November
Where: Rotherham Central
Hosted by the Rotherham city council, this Christmas light switch on won’t just include live music from popular local artists but also an exclusive performance from the Yorkshire Circus for the first time ever. The event will also have the usual Christmas market fitted out with a range of local traders, with the lights flicked on at 6pm by the mayor of Rotherham. Rotherham Minster will also be open for festive crafts, like bauble making, willow weaving, and more.
Dronfield
When: Friday 28 November
Nearest station: Dronfield
Another intimate and local event, the Dronfield Christmas light switch on begins at 4pm and runs until 8pm with the lights being switched on right after a performance from the local school choir at 6pm in the Library Gardens. There will be plenty of things to do as well, with festive fairground rides and a Christmas tree festival at the Parish Church.
East Yorkshire
Bridlington
When: Sunday 30 November
Nearest station: Bridlington
A very special Christmas light switch on in Yorkshire, Bridlington, is giving you the chance to design the light show yourself. Submit your drawing to the Bridlington town council to have the chance to see your artwork light up the night sky. For more information, click on the button below. There will also be festive events and food on offer as the town enters a full festive swing. Become a part of the night sky this Christmas and help light up Bridlington!
Hull
When: Thursday 20 November
Nearest station: Hull
With a host of special guests appearing and a range of performers, the Hull Christmas light switch on is nothing short of spectacular. The entertainment for the evening should begin at 5pm with the lights being flicked on sometime after, promising a short but very sweet event for you and the whole family. If quick, action-packed events are for you, then visit Hull this Christmas.
Tyne and Wear
Newcastle
When: Thursday 6 November
Nearest station: Manors
Continuing on from its success in previous years, Newcastle is starting its Christmas celebrations earlier this year. With the Christmas lights being switched on from the 6th, and the Christmas Village market opening the following week on the 15th. The light switch on promises to be another full event of fun, food, and live events for you and the whole family to enjoy.
Bishop Auckland
When: Saturday 22 November
Nearest station: Bishop Auckland
If you’re looking for something a little different, Bishop Auckland is once again bringing back its AGLOW events which show off an impressive and dazzling array of lights. AGLOW is home to 22 different illuminations and has some of the largest installations in the country, some standing over 30-metres high. Start out from the Palace and make your way through glittering pathways of lights. This event is sure to be a dazzling sight for all involved, with tickets available from £13.50 for children.
Get into the swing of Christmas with a range of events across the North of England that are guaranteed to create memories for you and yours. No matter where you find yourself travelling to this Christmas season, you’ll find good deals with Northern.
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Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.