Eton Christmas Lights Switch-on

About

On 12 November, celebrate the start of the festive season at Eton’s annual Christmas lights switch-on. Combining music, seasonal entertainment and a visit from Father Christmas, this much-loved event brings the community together in the heart of historic Eton.

Begin the evening with Eton College’s Carol Concert, before following Father Christmas and his reindeer along Eton High Street to Jubilee Square for the official lights switch-on, hosted by panto star Kevin Cruise. As the countdown begins and festive music fills the air, watch as Eton’s Christmas lights illuminate the town centre.

After the switch-on, take time to explore Eton’s shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants, as well as the seasonal street stalls offering festive food, drinks and gifts. Enjoy a warming mulled wine, sample locally brewed beers from Windsor & Eton Brewery, or pick up a bag of roasted chestnuts as you soak up the atmosphere.

There will also be family-friendly attractions, children's rides and opportunities for young visitors to meet Father Christmas and share their Christmas wish lists.

Tickets for the Carol Concert cost £5 and are available from the Eton Information Centre from 23 October 2026, or you can join Kevin Cruise in Jubilee Square from 6pm. 

See choirs, dancing and bands play and sing along at Jubilee Square.

5.00pm Trade and community stalls open
5.40pm The Windsor Boys’ School Brass Band
6.15pm Susan Handy School of Dance
6.30pm Lantern procession from Eton Chapel to Jubilee Square with children from Eton Porny, Father Christmas, his elves and reindeer
6.45pm Procession arrives at Jubilee Square
7.00pm Countdown to lights switch-on
7.05pm Reindeer gallery opens
7.05pm Community carols with The Windsor Boys’ School and Eton College
7.25pm Susan Handy School of Dance
7.40pm The Windsor Boys’ School Brass Band

Don't miss this popular festive evening in one of the borough's most historic settings.