About

The Christmas Colchester's Christmas lights will illuminate the town from Wednesday 15th November, with the grand switch-on marked by a Festive Light Parade through the town centre. In a reversal of last year, the parade will start at Firstsite, move along the High Street (which will be closed to traffic), and finish at The Mercury Theatre. Once the parade has concluded, Lion Walk will host their popular light switch-on party.
 

From 3pm you can experience an immersive light installation and live performances from local musicians and artists in Firstsite. Explore the free exhibitions, including a new exhibition of dazzling light artworks from artist Sue Webster, then join the big countdown and wave off the parade at 5pm.

The parade along the High Street is scheduled to run from 5pm and will be free to attend. Come dressed up in your best light up outfits, bring lanterns and join in the fun. Expect awesome light up structures, great performances from local groups and maybe even see a familiar face or two in the parade!

The Big Festive Light Switch-on kicks off the festive season in the City Centre with five nights of Late Wednesdays following it, where shops & hospitality businesses throughout the City Centre will extend their opening hours to welcome shoppers throughout the season. Additional entertainment can be expected for the final three Late Wednesdays, on 6th, 13th, and 20th December respectively.

Enjoy an after-party in Lion Walk!

Lion Walk's spectacular Christmas lights switch-on event starts at 5pm with an incredible schedule of festive fun including fireworks displays, live performances, Santa’s Grotto, and delicious food & drinks.

6pm - Cushti (Live Band)
7pm - Christmas + The Grinch
7.10pm - Elsa, Anna & Olaf
7.20pm - Mercury Theatre - Sleeping Beauty Panto Characters
7:30pm till late - Singer Yazmin Wood, DJ Darryl Wright & friends and Miss Leeloo Sax and light switch on and fireworks