19/11/2025 - Luton ready to shine as Christmas celebrations light up the town

 In partnership with Luton Council, Luton BID and Luton Point, the celebrations will bring together music, entertainment and festive fun for both residents and visitors, showcasing the creativity and community spirit that makes Luton shine.

The Christmas lights switch-on takes place this Saturday 22 November, with the town centre hosting a full day of free performances, street entertainment and festive crafts from 11am, leading up to the spectacular lights switch-on at 6pm. Families will have the chance to meet everyone’s favourite bear, Paddington™, with appearances at intervals outside the Town Hall between 2 and 6.30pm, as well as decorate their own baubles in Luton Point to take home for their Christmas tree.

And the fun doesn’t stop there - Santa’s Sleigh will roll into Market Hill on Saturday 29 November, giving children the chance to meet Santa’s elves and take a festive photo from 11am to 6pm. Then on Saturday 13 December, Christmas in Hat Gardens brings more seasonal joy with live local music, creative activities and a special Santa post box for little ones to send their letters to the North Pole.

Luton BID will continue the festivities throughout December with events designed to delight all ages. On Sunday 7 December, families can meet real-life reindeer at Market Hill between 11am and 2pm, while on Friday 20 December, St George’s Square will be filled with Christmas cheer featuring a walk-in snow globe and live carols by the Music 24 Community Choir.

Over at Luton Point, every weekend features hands-on festive crafts, storytelling sessions and appearances from much-loved children’s characters. As Christmas draws near, families can also visit Mrs Claus’ Gingerbread Kitchen or take part in a fun-filled festive discovery trail.

All activities are free to attend and form part of the town’s shared commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive and vibrant Christmas experience that supports both community wellbeing and the local economy.

Councillor Javeria Hussain, Vice Chair of Luton Rising, said: "There’s a special kind of magic in Luton at this time of year. The lights, the laughter and the sense of togetherness truly capture what our community is all about - and we can’t wait to see everyone enjoying the Christmas magic this weekend.

"Luton Rising is proud to support events that bring people together and fill the town centre with festive joy. Our heartfelt thanks go to all the local partners, performers and volunteers who help make Christmas in Luton such a memorable celebration."

To keep everyone safe and ensure the event runs smoothly, some road closures will be in place on the day:

• George Street – noon to 7pm

• Upper George Street (from Wellington Street to Gordon Street) – noon to 7pm

• Manchester Street – 9am to 10pm

• Wellington Street (from Stuart Street to George Street) – noon to 7pm

• Peel Street – noon to 7pm

For full event details, visit the Christmas page and Christmas in town page on the council's website for full details.