Canterbury is set to sparkle this festive season with Switch On 2025: Let It Snow! — a magical evening of music, markets, performances, and community cheer. With 12 themed locations stretching from Westgate Hall to Whitefriars, the city will transform into a winter wonderland filled with joy and excitement for all ages.
Activities: from 5-8pm | Light Switch-On Moments from 5pm to 6.15pm
Location: Across 12 festive locations throughout Canterbury City Centre
Attractions include: Christmas Market | Snow Machines | Frozen Characters | Reindeer Encounters | LEGO Trail | Live Music and Performances | Santa and His Sleigh | Selfie opportunities and more!
Highlights by Location:
Westgate Hall – Twilight Market
Artisan stalls, delicious food and live music to kick off the evening.
Marlowe Theatre – Marlowe Stage (5-5.45pm, switch on 5.30pm)
Head to the Marlowe Theatre where No Limits Street Band and the Panto Cast will be switching on the theatre's festive lights.
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge – Family Hub (5-8pm)
Father Christmas has arrived! The elves are busy offering free Christmas decoration making workshops, and for those that have booked – Santa will be waiting to see you (booking opens shortly). You can also enjoy a Frozen inspired trail through the library.
High Street – Frozen Fun (5-8pm, lights on 6.15pm)
Elsa, Ana and Olaf will be outside the Beaney ready to meet you all (5-7pm). Kristoff has parked their reindeer in Three Cities Garden (corner of Best Lane, 5-8pm) for you to say hello to, and you can enjoy live music throughout the evening thanks to Howden Insurance and Lily’s Social Kitchen.
Nasons Square – Jolly Christmas Huts (5-8pm, lights on 6.15pm)
Keeping the party in full swing, Jolly Christmas Huts have your food and drink needs catered for.
St Margaret’s Street – Let It Snow (5-8pm, lights on 6.15pm)
Ever wondered what it would be like to find yourself in a snow globe? Now is your chance to give it a try – a perfect selfie opportunity!
Cathedral Christmas Market (5-8pm – lights on 6pm)
In the beautiful surroundings of the Cathedral Precincts enjoy artisan makers, festive food and drink, a Christmas carousel, selfie opportunities, giant snow globe and live music from Ben Stroud.
Burgate – A Victorian Christmas (5-8pm, switch-on 6pm)
Step back in time for a traditional Christmas in our cobbled streets. Watch an abridged version of The Christmas Carol, join Tiny Tim for the light switch-on, and savour roasted chestnuts with festive music.
St George’s Street – Christmas Market (5-8pm, lights on 6.15pm)
Toast marshmallows, take a ride on a Virtual Reality sleigh, enjoy a wide range of Christmas huts and music from Olly Smith and Owen The Only Sax!
Fenwick – LEGO Trail Launch (5-8pm)
The LEGO Christmas Window trail launches today. Visit 5 participating trail stops, collect your stamps to claim a free LEGO prize in Fenwick’s Toy Department and meet their giant Snowman!
Whitefriars – Christmas Market (5-8pm, lights on 6.15pm)
Meet a wide array of Christmas Characters, enjoy festive food and drink and start your Christmas Shopping. Head to the undercover seating and enjoy live music from Amy Cooper and Dave Rogers.
Primark Balcony – Countdown Stage (5-7pm, switch-on 6.15pm)
The Red Button will be polished and ready for the Lord Mayor of Canterbury and Marlowe Panto Cast to switch on the Christmas lights. Enjoy live music from YMS Steel Band and FNKHAUS, hosted by Steve Watts. And don’t forget to take a selfie in Santa’s Sleigh with the MIND Elves.
Also check out other Music events in Canterbury, Entertainment events in Canterbury, Trips & Adventurous Activities in Canterbury.
