31/10/2025 - Luton lights up the town for Christmas: a season of festive fun for all

The town’s much-loved Christmas lights switch-on will take place on Saturday 22 November 2025, with a full day of live music, street performances and festive entertainment from 11am, leading up to the official switch-on at 6pm. As part of the celebrations, families will also have the chance to meet Paddington™ outside the Town Hall, with appearances taking place at intervals between 2pm and 6.30pm.

Adding to the festive cheer, Santa’s Sleigh will be making a special stop at Market Hill on Saturday 29 November. Families can enjoy a magical opportunity to snap a festive photo and say hello to Santa’s friendly elves as they spread holiday joy throughout the day from 11am to 6pm. Then, on Saturday 13 December, visitors will enjoy festive fun at Christmas in Hat Gardens and enjoy live music from talented local artists along Bute Street from 2pm to 6pm. Children can write their letters to Santa and send them off to the North Pole using the special festive post box, making for a truly enchanting and free family experience.

Luton BID have also planned a number of seasonal events throughout December, including a visit from real-life reindeer at Market Hill on Sunday 7 December, where children can take photos in the sleigh and even feed them between 11am and 2pm. On Friday 20 December, St George’s Square will be filled with festive fun, featuring a walk-in snow globe and live carols performed by the Music 24 Community Choir from 11am to 2.30pm. Visitors can round off the experience with a warming hot chocolate, available to purchase on site.

As the countdown to Christmas continues, Luton Point will host a seasonal programme of weekend events in Central Square, specially designed for families and young children. From festive crafts in the Bauble Arena to interactive storytelling and appearances from popular children’s characters, there’s something to capture the imagination of all ages. In the final days before Christmas Eve, the space will come alive with daily activities, including Mrs Claus’ gingerbread kitchen and a festive discovery trail through the centre.

Throughout December, Luton town centre will continue to bring festive cheer, supporting the local economy and providing memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.

All events are free to attend and form part of Luton’s shared commitment to making the town centre a welcoming, inclusive and vibrant place at this special time of year. The celebrations are made possible thanks to Luton Rising’s reinvestment in the town, which helps fund community projects and events that bring people together, alongside the support and investment of key partners Luton BID and Luton Point.

Cllr Javeria Hussain, Vice Chair of Luton Rising, said: “Our Christmas event reflects everything we value in Luton, community, togetherness and celebration. From the sparkle of the lights to the laughter of children, these moments bring joy to people of all ages.

We are proud to support this wonderful programme and look forward to seeing residents, families and visitors gather in the heart of our town to mark the season. A heartfelt thank you goes to all our partners, volunteers and organisers who help make Christmas in Luton shine brightly.”

Lavinia Douglass, Marketing Manager for Luton Point, said: “Christmas is such a special time for families and we’re thrilled to be bringing the community together with a line-up full of fun, creativity and festive spirit. From Peppa Pig and SpongeBob SquarePants meet and greets to festive crafts with Mrs Claus, there’s something for everyone at Luton Point to enjoy and best of all, it’s completely free!”

Visit the Christmas page and Christmas in town page on our website for full details.