Oldham Set to Sparkle with Annual Christmas Light Switch-On
Oldham town centre will burst into festive colour on Saturday 15 November as the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On Show returns.
An evening packed with family fun, live music, and entertainment for all ages.
The main stage show takes place from 5.30pm to 6.30pm outside the Old Town Hall and will be a night to remember with performances from Oldham’s Fierce Dance and the Oldham Coliseum production ‘A Christmas Fair’.
Plus, Anton Benson’s Beauty and the Beast panto cast from the Queen Elizabeth Hall will grace the stage, alongside Ollie & Millie, Rodney the Reindeer, and Oldham’s very own Frank Rothwell. As always Father Christmas will be making an appearance!
Families can also look forward to meeting Bluey and Bingo, who will be appearing in the Market Hall from 2pm, at intervals throughout the afternoon.
The evening will finish with a dazzling finale with the official switch-on of Oldham’s Christmas lights and tree, followed by a Christmas themed fireworks display lighting up the town’s sky.
This year, one lucky child from Oldham will even get the chance to join Father Christmas and special guests on stage to push the button and officially switch on Oldham’s Christmas lights and start the fireworks.
To enter, visit complete the short form before midnight on Wednesday 12 November for your chance to make Oldham sparkle.
Visitors can make a day of the event by exploring Oldham’s fantastic range of town centre venues, including Nando’s, Molino Lounge, Egyptian Room, Bitter Sweet, Parliament Square Café, Café 22, and The Fox and Pine – perfect for a festive meal or drink with friends and family.
And the celebrations don’t end there. Every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas (22 and 29 November, 6 and 13 December), 12noon to 4pm, Oldham will be alive with street bands, brilliant performers, and creative family workshops, making it the perfect destination for a day out.
Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said:
“Our Christmas Light Switch-On is always one of the highlights of the year, bringing families and friends together to celebrate everything we love about Oldham.
“This year’s event is packed with fun and excitement for all the family and it’s completely free.
“It’s also the perfect time to explore our town centre, pick up some Christmas gifts, and support the brilliant local traders and market stalls that make Oldham special.
“When you shop local, you’re helping our community thrive, keeping money in local people’s pockets. I encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the entertainment, and make some special memories in Oldham.”
Oldham town centre is the ideal place to get ahead with your Christmas shopping. From unique gifts and festive treats at Tommyfield Market, big-name brands and independent stores across the town, there’s something for everyone.
With three hours’ free parking in council-owned town centre car parks, it’s never been easier to enjoy a stress-free day of shopping and eating at one of Oldham’s many eateries.
So, wrap up warm, bring the family, and celebrate the start of the festive season at the Oldham Christmas Lights Switch-On 2025.
Make this Christmas one to remember and don’t forget to share your festive photos using #ChristmasInOldham.
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