CHRISTMAS PLANS REVEALED
The date for this year's Peterborough Chirtsmas lights switch-on has been set and festive events across the city have been revealed.
Peterborough’s spectacular Christmas Lights Switch-on will take place on Friday, 20 November.
It’s always one of the city’s most popular events, with thousands of visitors packing into Cathedral Square for the live music and fun before the big switch-on at around 7pm.
This year the festivities, taking place from around 5pm to 7.30pm, will be hosted by Boomerang Radio for the first time.
St John's Church in Cathedral Square will be open as usual on the evening, providing a quiet space, refreshments and toilets until 9pm.
Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Safety Cllr Zameer Ali - who will be picking the city’s Christmas Tree - said: “It’s one of the biggest events in our calendar, and part of a fantastic selection of attractions for the city for Christmas 2026 – one of the best in years.
“Our festive proceedings will start in real style on 20 November but it’s just part of a packed schedule of events in what will be a very busy and enjoyable time.”
Boomerang launched online in October 2025 and began broadcasting on DAB Digital Radio in January 2026.
Chris Tibbles, Head of Programming and presenter of Boomerang Breakfast, said; "Boomerang Radio is so excited to be involved in possibly the biggest event of the year in the city, and like previous years, the stage will be full of festive entertainment which will be announced in the coming weeks.
“Friday 20 November is the date for your diary to join the fun on Cathedral Square as we bring festive sparkle to the city."
The Queensgate light switch takes place on 21 November; the activities and events start at 11.30am, with the light switch-on later that afternoon. Queensgate is also offering free parking from 5pm every evening throughout December.
St John’s Church will host two Christmas Fairs on 28 November and 5 December, from 10am to 3pm.
On weekends (Friday-Sunday) throughout late November and December the City Council will be hosting a brilliant selection of Christmas stalls in the city centre, alongside the popular Secret Seamstress Christmas Markets.
They're also looking to host live music and acts throughout November and December in the city centre – we already have several choirs and bands signed up.
For more information on participating email market@peterborough.gov.uk
Peterborough Positive will be hosting a Christmas family film at Odeon LUXE on 21 November and will also be installing two festive photo opportunities in Long Causeway and Westgate Arcade.
Pep Cipriano, Chief Operating Officer for Peterborough Positive, said: "There are more reasons than ever to visit Peterborough city centre this Christmas. From shopping and dining to markets, entertainment and festive celebrations, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
“Alongside free parking after 3pm on weekdays and some great new businesses to discover, we're delighted to be adding to the festive programme and helping showcase Peterborough as a vibrant destination this Christmas."
Peterborough Cathedral will be hosting its biggest Christmas Market ever on November 20-22, with 140 stalls. Around 7,000 people came through the doors last year.
Among the other Christmas events at the Cathedral will be a new grotto - Father Christmas will be waiting amongst the ancient books of its historic library, from 21 November onwards.
The Cathedral’s Christmas Tree Festival will take place at the end of November, with more than 100 trees decorated by local charities and organisations.
There are many other Christmas events coming up – find out more on the Discover Peterborough Christmas portal:
Also, don’t forget free parking in four city centre car parks after 3pm, from Monday to Fridays; more information here:
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