Ipswich sets the date for Christmas lights switch-on!

The countdown to Christmas has begun as Ipswich Borough Council announces the date for this year’s town centre Christmas Lights switch-on as Sunday 16 November.

From 4pm to 7.30pm in the heart of Ipswich on the Cornhill, this year’s celebration promises to be bigger and brighter than ever with a lineup of live entertainment for all the family to enjoy.

Gen X Radio will lead the festivities as Official Media Partners for the event.

There will also be a special performance from the cast of Ipswich Regent Theatre’s 2025 festive pantomime Cinderella – plus, even more live musical entertainment to get everyone in the spirit!

As a highlight of the evening, the Christmas Lights will be switched on at 6.45pm by the Mayor of Ipswich, Councillor Stefan Long.

The Christmas Lights can also be enjoyed at our Blue Badge drive through event on Sunday 30 November from 6pm to 9pm. Further details about the ticketed event will be released soon.

Councillor Jane Riley, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers, says:

“The Christmas Lights switch-on is always a magical time for Ipswich, and we’re thrilled to welcome the community back for this year’s celebration. It’s a wonderful opportunity to come together, celebrate our town, and light up the start of the festive season with joy and excitement for all ages.”

To support visitors coming into town to enjoy the Christmas lights and complete their festive shopping, Ipswich Borough Council is offering free parking at the Crown car park starting Sunday 16 November and then on the following five Sundays leading up to Christmas. This will be available from 10am on these six Sundays until 8am on each of the following Monday mornings – customers simply take a ticket on entry, as usual, and use that ticket on exit from the car park.