Barnstaple gears up for the big Christmas Lights Switch-On 2025

All is in readiness as people across Barnstaple prepare to enjoy the town’s annual Christmas Light Switch On next week.

The traditional family event hosted by Barnstaple Town Council invites everyone in the town and surrounding areas to enjoy a festive feast of live entertainment, food, drink and late night shopping on Thursday, November 27.

There will be events, family activities and performances taking place across various town centre locations, but as ever The Square and its stage will be the focus for the main switch on event.

The event will run from 5pm to 8pm, hosted by The Voice Radio and there will be performances from Centre Stage School, North Devon Gang Show, DJ bunnynotbonnie and more.

The Christmas lights will be officially switched on at 6pm by a local family representing Children’s Hospice South West and a musical performance from the hospice team, as the charity celebrates the 30th anniversary of Little Bridge House opening in Barnstaple.

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In addition to the main stage, a Christmas Grotto will be open at the Guildhall from 6pm to 8pm, where visitors can meet Mr and Mrs Claus. Entry is £2 per child, with all proceeds donated to the Mayor’s Charities - Man Down and Barum Boxing Club.

Local businesses on The Strand will also host ‘Christmas on the Strand’ from 2pm to 9pm, featuring local stalls, choirs live music and festive activities throughout the day, including Queen Anne’s popular Elf Workshop supporting the Royal Devon Hospital Charity. The Strand light switch-on will be at 6pm. 

Paul Rhodes, the owner of Queen Anne’s Café said: “We’re looking forward to a day of festive fun for all the family on the Strand.

“We have great local produce, Christmas gifts, crafts and carol singing. This is the perfect way to get that festive feeling.”

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Meanwhile, the High Street will offer late-night shopping, church bell ringing and free parking from 4pm. Road closures will be in place on the Strand all day and The Square from 4.30pm to 9pm.

The Mayor of Barnstaple, Councillor Janet Coates, said: “The Christmas Light Switch-On is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the start of the festive season. This year, we are especially proud to recognise the 30th anniversary of Children’s Hospice South West and the vital work they do for families across our region.”

For more information, visit www.barnstapletowncouncil.gov.uk