Festive magic lights up Walsall Town Centre
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Crowds filled Walsall town centre on Saturday 29 November for the return of the official Christmas Lights Switch-On event, representing a 34% increase on the previous Saturday.
Visitors and residents alike enjoyed a packed programme of activity including live music, hands-on workshops, meeting Father Christmas, an Illuminate light projection show, and Christmas makers’ markets.
At the heart of the celebration was the magical Christmas Lights Switch On at The Bridge, beside the Sister Dora statue which took place at 5.30pm. Crowds gathered for festive music, plenty of sparkle, and a joyful community countdown.
“ This year’s Christmas Lights Switch On has truly showcased the warmth, creativity and community spirit that makes Walsall so special. Seeing thousands of residents and visitors come together to celebrate the start of the festive season has been inspiring. I’m excited to see this tradition continue to flourish in the years ahead. “
From 11am to 4pm, Father Christmas welcomed free visits from families at Saddlers Shopping Centre. Children shared their festive wishes with the main man himself, and posted handwritten lists direct to the North Pole, adding an extra touch of magic to their visit.
Throughout the early afternoon and evening, visitors explored the festive makers’ market inside The New Art Gallery Walsall, where artisans and crafters showcased their talents through their hand-made items available to buy at affordable prices.
In the early evening, The Crossing at St Paul’s was transformed into a winter wonderland with a special Walsall MakerFest Fringe event featuring 20 local makers, artists and creatives offering handcrafted gifts, unique decorations and seasonal treats. A special light projection show called Illuminate transformed the area into a stunning canvas of colour acting as a visual prelude to the main lights switch on.
Live music and festive cheer filled the town centre throughout the afternoon, adding energy and excitement to the celebrations.
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
- The 2025 festive market and Christmas lights switch on was organised by Walsall Council and sponsored by AR Demolitions, in partnership with Walsall MakerFest Fringe, Urban Hax, and The New Art Gallery Walsall.
- Walsall MakerFest Fringe is delivered by Walsall Council in partnership with Urban Hax CIC, The New Art Gallery Walsall, and the Walsall Cultural Compact. It is supported by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) through Arts Council England’s Cultural Development Fund: Round Three.
Press contacts:
Communications team – communications@walsall.gov.uk
