The Keswick Christmas Lights Switch On marks the start of the festive season in this Lake District town.
This free event, run by Keswick Town Council, draws crowds each year with lights, music, and family fun throughout the day.
It happens on Friday, 21 November 2026, in Packhorse Court and Market Square.
Enjoy a mix of market stalls, live shows, and the big lights switch-on.
The Most Important Details:
Location: Keswick, Packhorse Court and Market Square
Time: 10:00am – 10:00pm
Date: 21st November 2026
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Switch On Event Timetable
Here is the schedule for the day, based on available details:
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00am | Christmas Food & Gift Fayre opens with stalls for food, gifts, and crafts. | Packhorse Court |
| 4:45pm | St Herbert’s CE School choir performs. | Packhorse Court |
| 5:15pm | Peter Rabbit switches on the Packhorse Court lights. | Packhorse Court |
| 5:20pm | Keswick Amateur Operatic Society Singers perform. | Packhorse Court |
| 5:45pm | Dorothy and friends from Theatre by the Lake’s The Wizard of Oz perform. | Market Square |
| 6:00pm | Music by The Kasios in collaboration with North Lakes Brass Band. | Market Square |
| 7:00pm | Main Christmas lights switch-on by the Keswick Community Housing Trust. | Market Square |
Note: Times may change slightly; check the Keswick Town Council site for updates.
The event also features Taylor’s Funfair in town for rides and games.
Organisers ask that people leave dogs at home due to large crowds.
What to Expect During the Day
The day combines shopping, food, and evening entertainment.
The fayre offers local produce and handmade items from 10am.
As evening falls, the focus shifts to Packhorse Court and Market Square for songs, theatre, and music.
The Christmas tree, sponsored by Hope Park Games and Café, adds to the display.
Thanks go to the Rotary Club of Keswick and the town council for setup.
This event lights up the town and kicks off holiday cheer.
Location:
Best Places to Park for Keswick Christmas Lights Switching On
Keswick has several car parks near the town centre.
Central Car Park offers long-stay options with many spaces and free parking available for the event.
Bell Close provides short-stay parking close by.
Crosthwaite Road Car Park gives cheaper rates, about a ten-minute walk away.
Keswick Rugby Club Car Park has all-day parking for a small fee.
Arrive early as spaces go fast during big events like this one.
Where to Stay in the Area When You Enjoy the Xmas Lights
Our Cumbrian cottages offer self-catering stays close to the town and manty other popular Lake District attractions.
They provide a cosy base to relax after the lights switch on.
With easy access to the event, our cottages make your trip simple and enjoyable.
Book soon as places fill up quickly around this time.
Click here to view all of our luxury holiday cottages in and around Cumbria…
