Oldham set to sparkle with annual Christmas Lights Switch-On

Oldham town centre will burst into festive colour this Saturday (November 15) as the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On Show returns with an evening packed with family fun, live music and entertainment for all ages.

The main stage show takes place from 5.30pm to 6.30pm outside the Old Town Hall and will be a night to remember with performances from Oldham’s Fierce Dance and the Oldham Coliseum production ‘A Christmas Fair’. 

Plus, Anton Benson’s Beauty and the Beast panto cast from the Queen Elizabeth Hall will grace the stage, alongside Ollie & Millie, Rodney the Reindeer and Oldham Athletic's Chairman Frank Rothwell. As always Father Christmas will be making an appearance! 

Families can also look forward to meeting Bluey and Bingo, who will be appearing in the Market Hall from 2pm at intervals throughout the afternoon. 

The evening will finish with a dazzling finale with the official switch-on of Oldham’s Christmas lights and tree, followed by a Christmas themed fireworks display lighting up the town’s sky.  

This year, one lucky child from Oldham will even get the chance to join Father Christmas and special guests on stage to push the button and officially switch on Oldham’s Christmas lights and start the fireworks. 

To enter, visit https://www.oldham.gov.uk/push_the_button and complete the short form before midnight on Wednesday, November 12 for your chance to make Oldham sparkle. 

Visitors can make a day of the event by exploring Oldham’s fantastic range of town centre venues, including Nando’s, Molino Lounge, Egyptian Room, Bitter Sweet, Parliament Square Café, Café 22, and The Fox and Pine – perfect for a festive meal or drink with friends and family. 

And the celebrations don’t end there. Every Saturday in the run-up to Christmas (November 22 and 29, December 6 and 13) 12noon to 4pm, Oldham will be alive with street bands, brilliant performers, and creative family workshops, making it the perfect destination for a day out.   

Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said:  “Our Christmas Light Switch-On is always one of the highlights of the year, bringing families and friends together to celebrate everything we love about Oldham.   

“This year’s event is packed with fun and excitement for all the family and it’s completely free. It’s also the perfect time to explore our town centre, pick up some Christmas gifts, and support the brilliant local traders and market stalls that make Oldham special.  

“When you shop local, you’re helping our community thrive, keeping money in local people’s pockets. I encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the entertainment, and make some special memories in Oldham.”  

Find out more at https://whatson.oldham.gov.uk/event/oldham-christmas-light-switch-on/