Christmas Lights Switch-On in Greater Manchester 2025

As the nights draw in, Greater Manchester comes alive with the sparkle of Christmas lights and the buzz of family-friendly festivities. Whether you’re looking for a magical Christmas countdown, immersive light trails, or community celebrations with Santa and street performers, there’s something for every family to enjoy this season.

Bolton

Date: Thursday 20^th – Sunday 23^rd November from 5pm

Location: Bolton Town Centre

Bolton Town Centre hosts the Put Big Light On Festival, featuring world-class light installations, immersive experiences, and family street entertainment. Highlights include Dan Acher’s Borealis in Victoria Square and Luke Jerram’s Mars at Bolton Central Library. This event is free and perfect for families looking to explore together.

Bury

Bury town centre is already dazzling after a weekend of festive fun at The Rock. Santa now needs your help! A magical flurry of activity has escaped the North Pole, and enchanting clues have appeared all around town. Each one holds a secret and a hidden letter! Get ready for a magical AR adventure to help Santa by tracking down all the clues and meeting the secret inhabitants of the North Pole!

Oldham

Date: Saturday 15^th November from 5.30pm

Location: Oldham Town Centre

Get ready for a magical evening as Oldham town centre bursts into festive color for the much-anticipated Christmas Lights Switch-On Show! This annual event is a highlight for families, promising an unforgettable night packed with live music, dazzling entertainment, and plenty of holiday cheer for all ages.

Rochdale

Date: Sunday 23^rd November from 5.30pm

Where: Rochdale Town Hall  

Get ready for a spectacular weekend as the Ignite Fire Festival returns bigger and brighter than ever from the 21^st November until 23^rd November. With the Christmas Light Switch On happening on Sunday 23^rd November. Experience dazzling illuminated trails, restored pathways, fiery displays, blazing sculptures, and mesmerising light installations from award-winning Walk the Plank.

Salford

Date: Thursday 4^th – Sunday 7^th December 

Location: MediaCity and Salford Quays

Looking for a festive adventure the whole family will love? Mark your calendars for Lightwaves Salford, returning to MediaCity and Salford Quays from Thursday, December 4th to Sunday, December 7th! This annual winter highlight transforms the waterfront into a glowing wonderland, perfect for families seeking a magical evening out.

Date: Thursday 27^th November from 5pm

Location: Lowry Hotel

The Lowry Hotel’s ‘Let it Snow Show’ launches November 27, 5–6pm, with actress Brooke Vincent switching on the snowy display. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, festive drinks, mince pies, and live choir performances. Snowfall continues daily, creating a magical winter wonderland. Free entry for all visitors.

Stockport

Date: Saturday 29^th November from 5.30pm

Location: Great Underbank

Totally Stockport are proud to be working with the Underbank's local businesses again for the Underbank's Light Switch On. Get in the festive spirit with a silver band playing from 5.30pm and late night shopping this November!

Date: Friday 14^th November from 4pm

Location: Royal Nawaab Pyramid

Join Royal Nawaab Pyramid for an unforgettable evening as they officially switch on their Christmas lights. Experience the magic of the season with live entertainment, festive music, and a touch of Royal Nawaab grandeur — the perfect way to welcome Christmas in true style.

Tameside

Date: Saturday 15^th November, from 5pm

Location: Armentieres Square, Stalybridge

The Northern Lights Winter Parade returns to Stalybridge on Saturday, November 15, 5–6pm. Enjoy free lantern displays, vibrant performances, and festive Artisan Markets from 11am. Part of Stalybridge Street Fest, this event launches Tameside’s Christmas celebrations with community spirit and sparkling culture for all ages.

Date: Saturday 22^nd November

Location: Ashton Town Centre

The countdown is on to the season of festive fun and events and there is so much going on across the borough, you won’t want to miss it! There’s not just one or two but a total of nine community-led Christmas events taking place with one for each town to host their own unique Christmas celebration event and show their pride in their local area. Here’s everything you need to know of all the Christmas events taking place.

Wigan

Date: Saturday 15^th November

Location: Spinning Gate Shopping Centre

As always, the Christmas festivities begin in Leigh Town Centre, where the day starts with Christmas artisan markets, a funfair, and an entertainment stage. As the sun sets, the celebration continues with Light Up Leigh — a dazzling lantern parade that illuminates the town’s Christmas lights as it passes. The event concludes with a spectacular finale performance.

Date: Thursday 20^th November

Location: Mesnes Park

Light Night Wigan returns to Mesnes Park, November 20–22, featuring illuminated art installations by top artists, live music, storytelling, and interactive experiences for all ages. Free but ticketed entry is required; accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Enjoy quieter sessions, food, and drink. Additional installations at All Saints Church and King Street.

Tips for Families

• Many events are free, but some immersive trails require tickets—book early to avoid disappointment.
• Check event websites for the latest updates, as details can change.
• Dress warmly and plan your route to make the most of the festive atmosphere, food stalls, and entertainment.