Christmas Lights Switch On

Princes Risborough High Street will once again come alive with Christmas festivities on Saturday 26th November for their annual Christmas Lights Switch On event.

The event organised by Princes Risborough Town Council spans across three hours, running from 3pm-6pm and will see the local community and visitors come together in joyous harmony for the return of the Ice Rink, Santa’s Grotto, and festive live entertainment. Additional entertainment for this year include an animatronic polar bear and an inflatable snow globe, perfect for getting that Christmas card photo.

A main stage located in front of the historic Market House will provide entertainment throughout the afternoon, with performances from local primary and secondary schools, The Blend Choir, and local musicians. Additional music from the Ellesborough Silver Band and Princes Risborough Ukulele Group will appear along the High Street throughout the afternoon as well as roaming festive characters.

Food and refreshments from local vendors will have a vast array to keep visitors well-fed and watered, including stalls offering mulled wine and cider, gourmet burgers, crepes and waffles from local retailer La Crepe Escape, authentic Roman style pizza from Olivero’s UK, and gluten free pasta and Dutch pancakes from Pasta and Pancakes.

Local craftspeople will sit alongside artisan producers and businesses to provide the perfect opportunity to purchase stocking fillers and Christmas gifts from small businesses, commercial vendors, and High Street retailers. The festive afternoon is the perfect opportunity for High Street retailers and hospitality, local businesses, organisations, and charities to build their own profiles and raise much needed funds for their own projects.

Within the final hour of the event, the Princes Risborough Christmas Lights will be switched on by Kian Zomorodian as Aladdin and Melanie Elizabeth as Princess Jasmine from the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre’s pantomime performance.

The main sponsor for this year's event is Michael Graham who have been a long-term supporter of the Christmas Lights Switch On. Carly O’Brien, Marketing & Operations Director for Michael Graham said “Michael Graham are delighted to be supporting the Christmas Lights Switch On once more, having done so since 2015. We are very proud to be a part of this community and our partnership with the town council. We look forward to seeing as many faces as possible at the switch on, getting into the festive spirit”.

Swish Fibre have generously sponsored all entertainment elements that are sourced by the Town Council meaning all stated entertainment will be provided free of charge to the public. Jessica Wilkinson, Chief Revenue Officer for Swish Fibre, said "We’re delighted to be partnering with the Princes Risborough Christmas Lights Switch On this year. Swish is in the business of connecting people, and connecting with family and friends is the best part of the holiday seasons. We look forward to welcoming as many guests as possible on the day”.

Mayor and Chairman of the Town Council, Cllr Andy Ball added “We are thrilled to be able to ensure residents enjoy the benefits of living in such a wonderful community. We are so pleased that all entertainment sourced by the Town Council can be on offer free of charge this year ensuring all residents have an equal opportunity to enjoy this festive afternoon together. Any residents that wish to contribute to our bucket collections will be pleased to know that every single penny goes to charity. The Princes Centre and Crisis (homeless charity) are our chosen recipients this year.”

For the latest information or if you would like to take part, please see our Events Listing or search ‘Risborough Town Council’ on Facebook.

Want to see our event poster? Click here