As the holiday season approaches, Newbury is embracing the spirit of Christmas with open arms, offering a dazzling array of events and activities for both locals and visitors. Newbury BID, the not-for-profit organisation behind Visit Newbury, is excited to reveal the fantastic festive line-up that awaits in our charming town as they announce Newbury’s Christmas Lights Switch On Festival.

Visit Newbury invites you to mark your calendars for Saturday, November 18, 2023, as we kick off the Christmas season with the highly anticipated event. This one-day extravaganza promises to be a truly enchanting experience for families, couples, and solo adventurers.

The festivities commence with a heartwarming all-day Christmas market on Northbrook Street, featuring an array of delectable food, unique Christmas gifts, and more, whilst Bartholomew Street will play host to a delightful children’s fun fair. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

Throughout the town centre, you’ll encounter a host of delightful surprises, including free festive workshops and meet-and-greet sessions with the beloved Princesses Anna and Elsa and their friend Olaf, and the chance to meet Santa Claus at his Grotto. Experience the charm of a Living Nativity Animal Farm and revel in the live music and performance hubs, creating an atmosphere of joy and wonder.

But that’s not all – be on the lookout for the enchanting Ghost Caribou, roaming the streets at dusk with their spectacular lantern-like illuminations, part mystical spirit, and part mesmerizing spectacle. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the bouncing Christmas elves; they’re sure to bring a smile to your face!

The day of festivities culminates in the eagerly anticipated Christmas Lights Switch On, scheduled for 6pm in the Market Place. Witness the town centre transform into a magical world, welcoming all to share in the joy and wonder of Christmas in Newbury.

Newbury BID encourages everyone to visit the official Visit Newbury website for more information on the full day’s festivities and to stay updated on this magical event.

Join us on Saturday, November 18, 2023, 10am until 6pm and unwrap the magic of Christmas in Newbury!

Warwick Heskins, Newbury BID Chair commented ‘We are so excited to welcome families and visitors to this year’s Christmas Lights Switch On Festival, this is an incredibly important event for the town, officially marking the start of Christmas in Newbury!’

To see the day’s full list of events, head to www.visitnewbury.org.uk/newbury-christmas-lights-switch-on