10 things to do at the Plymouth City Centre Christmas Lights Switch On

Join us for an unforgettable evening as Plymouth welcomes the festive season with the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On on Thursday 12 November. Brought to you by Plymouth City Centre Company.

Ahead of this year's event. Take a look at the top things to do at this year's Christmas Lights Switch On 

Plymouth Will Shine Brighter Than Ever

This year, Plymouth's city centre will sparkle like never before. Brand-new festive lighting displays will illuminate the newly transformed Armada Way and water rill, while a spectacular immersive canopy with animated stars will sweep across the Piazza, creating a magical Christmas atmosphere.

Christmas Lights Switch-on Entertainment

Head to the stage on the Piazza, for an exciting line-up of entertainment and community performances, celebrating Plymouth’s talented young performers. Kicking off the celebrations at 4pm, pupils from Lipson Co-operative Academy will take to the stage with a lively festive performance, followed by Boringdon Primary School at 4.20pm.

More Singing and Dance Performances

The festive-fun continues on the Piazza with more fantastic singing and dance performances taking place on the stage, ahead of the big switch-on moment, including:

4.45pm to 5pm - Razzamataz

5.10pm to 5.25pm - Stage Stars

5.35pm to 5.50pm - Plymkids

6pm to 6.20pm -  Plymouth Performing Arts Academy

Experience the Big Switch-on Moment!

Gather around for the highlight of the evening as Plymouth officially welcomes Christmas. Between 6.25pm and 6.35pm, the countdown will be led by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Kevin Sproston, alongside Santa and special guests from Theatre Royal Plymouth, including Cinderella and Prince Charming from this year's pantomime.

Festive Funk with Land of the Giants

Get into the festive spirit with Plymouth favourites Land of the Giants. Renowned for their infectious blend of funk, reggae, ska and rock, this energetic six-piece band will keep the celebrations going after the switch-on with a performance guaranteed to get the crowd moving.

Snap the Perfect Festive Selfie!

Look out for the spectacular 25ft real Christmas tree in Old Town Square, sparkling with new festive lights, provided by Plymouth City Centre Company and sponsored by Costa Coffee Plymouth, Plymouth Citybus. It’s the perfect backdrop for festive photos and soak up the Christmas magic. While you’re there, enjoy a special performance from by Italia Conti, at 6pm.

Double the Festive Fun at Drake Circus

The celebrations don't stop on Armada Way. Drake Circus and The Barcode will also be switching on their Christmas lights on 12 November, adding even more festive sparkle to the city centre. Find out more at Drake Circus Events.

Make the Most of Late-Night Shopping

The switch-on also marks the start of Plymouth's late-night shopping season. From Thursday 12 November until 17 December, many city centre stores will remain open until 9pm every Thursday, giving you extra time to browse, shop and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Visit the Plymouth Christmas Market

Looking for unique gifts and seasonal treats? The popular Plymouth Christmas Market returns to the Piazza from 26 November to 20 December, offering a fantastic selection of festive stalls, delicious food and drink, handcrafted gifts and live entertainment.

Soak Up the Christmas Atmosphere

From sparkling lights and festive music to family entertainment, shopping and seasonal treats, the Christmas Lights Switch-On is the perfect way to kick off the festive season in Plymouth. Wrap up warm, bring family and friends, and enjoy an evening full of Christmas magic in the heart of the city.

We can't wait to welcome you to Plymouth City Centre on Thursday 12 November as the countdown to Christmas begins!

For the full programme, head to the website: Christmas Lights Switch-On - Visit Plymouth

This information was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.