Winchester Christmas Lights Switch On 2026

Winchester's city centre is set to be illuminated with festive lights for winter 2026. Watch the on-switch be flipped at the Winchester Christmas Lights Switch On, which will take place on Thursday 19 November 2026.

Thousands of people are expected to gather in The Broadway for the annual Winchester Christmas Lights Switch On, organised by Winchester BID and kindly sponsored by Costa Coffee Winchester.

Hosted by Heart Radio’s Jonny Meah, the evening will bring together local schools, choirs, performers and community groups for a packed programme of live entertainment before the big countdown just before 6.30pm.

Taking to the stage will be Osborne School’s Rubik’s Cube, Winchester A Cappella, The Pilgrims’ School, Harestock Primary School Choir, Integr8 Dance, Winchester Rock Choir, Winchester Cathedral Choristers, Theatre Royal Winchester’s Pantomime Cast, Encore Choir, Love Soul Choir, Diva Academy and Weeke Primary School Recorder Club.

And the honour of pressing the giant red button? That will go to some of Winchester’s very own Local Heroes, nominated by the public in recognition of the difference they make to the city and its community. Full details coming soon.

Away from the main stage, there will be even more festive fun in Middle Brook Street. The Giant Inflatable Snow Globe returns outside The Brooks Shopping Centre from 3pm–8pm, providing the perfect opportunity for a snowy Christmas selfie.

Winchester Round Table’s Santa Sleigh will also be parked nearby from 3pm, giving families the chance to pay Father Christmas an early visit.

Visitors to the Snow Globe, thanks to The Brooks Shopping Centre, will be encouraged to make a voluntary donation to Spare Change for Lasting Change, Winchester BID’s initiative supporting local homelessness charities Trinity Winchester and The Winchester Beacon.

READ MORE: Our full guide to Christmas 2026 in Winchester, ft:
 🎄Festive activities
🎁 Christmas shopping 
⭐ Winter lights trails
🎅 Santa's grottos
❄️ Winchester itineraries
☃️ Christmas events
🎄 Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market.