Preston Christmas Lights Switch-On 2026: Make a Night of It

Preston's Christmas lights switch-on is on Saturday 21 November 2026 on the Flag Market, starting at 5:30pm, and it's free. East 17 are billed to headline. The Winter Lodge is a few minutes' walk away at 49-50 Friargate, open from 12pm to 11pm that day, so it's an easy place to warm up before or carry on after.

Line-ups and timings can change, so check Visit Preston for the latest before you set off.

Before the switch-on

The afternoon is the best time to bring the family. Kids and dogs are welcome at the Lodge until 8pm, and the hot chocolate with marshmallows and a gingerbread man on top goes down well while you wait for the countdown. Get a hut and you have somewhere warm to leave the coats.

After the switch-on

Once the lights are on, walk up Friargate and carry on the night under ten thousand more of them. Mulled wine, steins and Christmas films over the bar, until 11pm.

Book ahead for the 21st

Switch-on night is one of the busiest Saturdays before December. To be sure of a table, book a hut: each one seats up to eight, and a small deposit comes off your bill. Walk-ins are welcome too.