Christmas in the City
Sunday 15 November 2026 sees Chelmsford's annual Christmas Lights Switch On event.
Running from 10am to 5pm, the event will feature a full day of entertainment across the city centre, culminating in the official switch-on ceremony and fireworks display.
Visitors can explore Christmas markets at The Meadows Shopping Centre and Patch, enjoy live music on the Christmas Tree Stage, hosted by local venue Hot Box, and catch performances on the main stage outside Shire Hall. There will also be street food from Chelmsford High Street Market, mulled wine, walkabout performers, children's fairground rides and Christmas karaoke.
This year's Christmas lights scheme will feature several new elements, adding extra sparkle to the city. The lights will be switched on by some of Chelmsford's local heroes, alongside the announcement of the Chelmsford Community Awards winners.
Chelmsford For You is once again partnering with BBC Radio Essex, celebrating Chelmsford's proud heritage as the birthplace of radio.
The main stage will be hosted by Sara Tupper from Chelmsford For You, alongside Akylah Rodriguez from the BBC Essex presenting team. They will introduce an afternoon of performances from local talent.
Across the city centre
Alongside the main stage, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and performances throughout the day:
Christmas Tree Stage
NEW FOR 2026: Festivities in Bond Street
Santa and His Sleigh
Christmas Market Stalls
Christmas Makers Market
Grays Yard Festivities
Children's Fairground Rides
The day's celebrations will culminate at 5pm with the Christmas Lights Switch On, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. This year, the fireworks will return to their original launch location at The Meadows Shopping Centre.
You can find the full programme on the Chelmsford for You website.
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