November 21st Christmas lights switch-on in Newton Abbot promises family fun

November 21st Christmas lights switch-on in Newton Abbot promises family fun

CRAFT stalls, street food, free children’s activities and live music are all set to feature in Newton Abbot’s Christmas lights switch-on celebrations on Saturday November 21.

Traders and caterers will start setting up shop in Courtenay Street at 10am with balloon modelling, face painting, children’s crafts and live Britpop from Simon Prince getting under way at noon.

The much-loved Taiko Drummers will perform at St Leonard’s Tower 3pm - 3.30pm followed by more live music from Simon back in Courtenay Street at 4pm.

The massed ranks of The Rock Choir will be singing their hearts out by the clock tower from 4.15pm onwards, making way at 4.45pm for the procession of vehicles including Santa’s sleigh, a prestige supercar, hotrod, floats from Kingsbridge and Ipplepen Carnivals and, subject to call-outs, a fire engine from the Newton Abbot station.

Keep a look out too for a pair of giant stilt walkers, mingling among the crowds from around 4pm.

Mayor Cllr Louise Cook will join Santa on stage at 5.30pm and together the pair will throw the switch to flood the town centre with light from the festive display.

‘I can’t believe how quickly the Christmas lights switch-on comes round each year but we know how much people look forward to it and I think we’ve arranged a great day’s entertainment,’ said Natalie Hicks, Events Coordinator with Newton Abbot Town Council.

‘Once again, all the balloon modelling, face painting and craft activities will be completely free of charge, as will the live music and Santa visits.

‘We’ll also be giving away some small gifts at the lights switch-on, first come first served of course, at around 4.45pm so we look forward to seeing everyone on the day and kicking off Christmas 2026 with a bang.

‘Other dates for the festive diary include the Christmas charity market and late night shopping on Wednesday December 2 with Santa visits, street food stalls, walkabout acts and live music.

‘Our lunchtime dog-friendly carol service will take place in Wolborough Street on Saturday December 5, then our amazing lantern parade will pack the streets on Wednesday December 9.

‘Santa is back again on the evening of Wednesday December 16 along with more late night shopping, street food, craft stalls and the carol service.

‘All the details are on our website and we’ll keep everyone posted as the events get nearer, we really hope you all have a great time with us here in Newton Abbot.’

Photos from previous festive events

For more information please email natalie.hicks@newtonabbot-tc.gov.uk or call 01626 201120.