Celebrate the Season: Ipswich Christmas Lights Switch-On Event on 16 November

Posted on October 24, 2025 by Press Team

Join Us for the Official Ipswich Christmas Lights Switch-On

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, and Ipswich is ready to sparkle and shine with the announcement of this year’s town centre Christmas Lights switch-on! Ipswich Borough Council has set the date for Sunday, 16 November 2025, and the event promises to be bigger and brighter than ever before.

Taking place from 4pm to 7.30pm on the Cornhill—the vibrant heart of Ipswich—this year’s festive celebration is set to bring the community together for an evening of live entertainment that the whole family can enjoy. For those interested in live music, the event will feature exciting performers including a special performance by the cast of the Ipswich Regent Theatre’s 2025 festive pantomime Cinderella. Music lovers will also appreciate a variety of live musical acts throughout the evening.

Leading the festivities will be Gen X Radio, this year’s Official Media Partners, ensuring the joy and excitement of the event reaches far and wide. The Christmas Lights themselves will be switched on at 6.45pm by the Mayor of Ipswich, Councillor Stefan Long, marking the magical start of the festive season in Ipswich.

Accessibility and Community Support

For those unable to attend the main switch-on event, Ipswich Borough Council is also offering a special Blue Badge drive-through event on Sunday 30 November from 6pm to 9pm, allowing everyone to enjoy the dazzling lights from the comfort of their vehicle. Further details and tickets for this accessible event will be released soon.

To help visitors with their festive shopping and to encourage everyone to take part in town centre events, Ipswich Borough Council will offer free parking at Crown Car Park starting from the switch-on day, 16 November, and on five subsequent Sundays leading up to Christmas. The free parking will be available from 10am on these Sundays until 8am the following Monday mornings. Simply take a ticket on entry and use it on exit as usual for easy access to the town centre. Find more information about Crown Car Park here.

A Magical Ipswich Christmas for Everyone

Councillor Jane Riley, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Culture and Customers, shares her excitement: “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.”

Whether you enjoy theatrical performances at the Ipswich Regent Theatre, or prefer to shop and dine in the lively Cornhill area, Ipswich’s Christmas Lights Switch-On is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and support local businesses and community groups.

Join us on Sunday, 16 November at the Cornhill and be part of a truly special Ipswich tradition that brings warmth and light to the town as we head into the holiday season.

Stay connected with Ipswich events and activities by exploring more about local groups and venues on the Ipswich.love Directory.

See you there to celebrate the magic of Christmas in Ipswich!

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Press Team

The Ipswich.love Press Team are a small group who post press release information in an easy-to-read format. If you have a press release you'd like covered on the site get in touch.

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