Colchester Christmas Light Switch On 2025
Get ready for Colchester’s most magical night of the year! Join us on Saturday 22nd November from 5.30pm
Expect joyful harmonies from The Big Sing Choir, panto magic from Headgate Theatre’s Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and a return of Frozen favourites Elsa, Anna and Olaf after last year’s crowd-pleasing show. There’ll also be a special performance from the Colchester Has Talent winner, plus a hilarious Santa vs The Grinch parody skit to keep everyone entertained.
You can also look forward to appearances from Shrek, the Town Crier and the Mayor, who will join in the fun ahead of the official light switch-on at 7–7.30pm. When the lights go on, the night sky will burst into colour with a spectacular laser show, flames and fireworks display.
The celebrations continue with live music from Yasmin Woods, performing festive classics, and a set from Cushti in the Courtyard. Make the most of late-night shopping until 8pm at your favourite stores including Primark, Boots, JD and Fenwick, and enjoy cosplay characters, family fun and fundraising from The Rotary throughout the evening.
A spectacular 82ft big wheel will be at St Nicholas Square to give you a ride to remember.
It’s a night full of sparkle, song and Christmas spirit — don’t miss Colchester’s most magical night of the year!
More festive events at Lion Walk Courtyard
The celebrations don’t stop there. Throughout November and December, the Lion Walk Courtyard will host a full calendar of festive events, from late-night shopping and family fun days to live music and Christmas parties.
Discover what’s on and book tickets via lionwalkcourtyard.com/events, to enjoy even more of the magic at Christmas at Lion Walk Colchester.
Plan your festive visit
From the Colchester Christmas Light Switch-On to Santa’s Grotto, Lion Walk is the place to celebrate the season in style.
Enjoy live music, fireworks, family entertainment and late-night shopping across your favourite stores, all in the heart of Colchester.
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook for updates, schedules and sneak peeks behind the scenes as we count down to Christmas at Lion Walk Colchester 2025.