Stapleford Christmas Lights Switch On 2026

About

Saturday 21st November 2026 | 1pm - 7pm
Location: Walter Parker VC Memorial Square NG9 7AR, Derby Road Central Car Park and Medivet Car Park NG9 7AS

Stapleford’s much-loved Christmas Lights Switch-On Ceremony returns to Walter Parker VC Memorial Square, bringing a day of Victorian-inspired festive fun, family entertainment and seasonal celebrations to the town.

The festivities begin at 1:00pm with a bustling Christmas market on Victoria Street, offering a selection of festive treats, doughnuts and community stalls. Children's fairground rides and activities will also be available from 1:00pm in the Medivet Car Park, while food stalls and live entertainment add to the festive atmosphere across Derby Road and the surrounding areas.

Adding a touch of festive mischief, the Jacks of Frost will be making a special appearance. This frosty pair of shivering siblings are happiest when the temperature drops and will be spreading Christmas cheer among visitors of all ages, with a little mischief and perhaps even a helping hand with the Christmas shopping!

From 1:00pm to 4:30pm, children will have the opportunity to meet Santa in his magical grotto at Stapleford & Bramcote Conservative Club. Dedicated sensory-friendly sessions will also be available between 1:00pm and 2:00pm, providing a more relaxed experience for children who may benefit from a quieter environment. Spaces for these sessions are limited.

The main stage entertainment gets underway at 4:30pm in Derby Road Car Park, with a fantastic programme of live performances. Visitors can enjoy traditional Christmas carols from Fairfield Spencer Academy Choir and the Salvation Army Brass Band before local favourites Verbal Warning take to the stage with a high-energy punk rock performance.

For those looking to get involved, Mr Barnard will be entertaining visitors in Derby Road Car Park with an array of Victorian-inspired tricks and traditional skills. Dressed as a distinguished Victorian gentleman, his performances include orange juggling and spinning Christmas puddings. Visitors can also take part in his Victorian Skills Workshop, featuring stilts, juggling balls, clubs, diabolos, peacock feather balancing and fabric scarf juggling.

The highlight of the afternoon, the official Christmas Lights Switch-On Ceremony, will take place at 5:30pm beside the Christmas tree at Walter Parker VC Memorial Square. The ceremony will be led by the Mayor of Broxtowe and the Stapleford Town Mayor, before the evening continues with a spectacular fireworks display at 6:30pm, best viewed from Derby Road Car Park. Verbal Warning will then return for a second performance, keeping the celebrations going until 7:00pm.

Organised by Broxtowe Borough Council in partnership with Stapleford Town Council and the Stapleford Christmas Lights Steering Group, the event promises a wonderful day of festive entertainment, community spirit and Christmas magic for all ages.