Stafford’s annual Christmas Lights Switch-On is a beloved event that marks the beginning of the holiday season in this historic town. This year’s Christmas Lights Switch-On celebration in Stafford, set for Saturday, 16 November 2024, promises to be a magical day filled with community spirit, festive activities, and exciting entertainment. With local sporting heroes, popular performers, and plenty of seasonal fun, the Switch-On is expected to bring together thousands of residents and visitors. Here’s your guide to everything happening this year.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, 16 November 2024

Location: Stafford town centre, centred around Market Square

Main Event Time: Lights switch-on at 5:00 PM

Each year, Stafford Borough Council and Freedom Leisure bring together a wide range of local talent, activities, and special moments to create an event that showcases the spirit of Stafford. This year is no exception, with an incredible line-up planned to make the occasion even more memorable.

Schedule of Activities

From 3:00 PM

The festivities will start in the afternoon, transforming Stafford’s town centre into a festive wonderland. Here’s what you can expect:

• Festive Stalls: A range of stalls will offer everything from festive foods and mulled drinks to hand-crafted holiday gifts and unique decorations. These stalls, featuring local artisans and vendors, provide the perfect opportunity to shop for Christmas presents while supporting local businesses.

• Fairground Rides: Traditional fairground rides will add excitement and nostalgia to the day. With a mix of children’s rides and family-friendly attractions, the rides are sure to bring smiles to young and old alike.

• Street Entertainers: Entertainers will be roaming the area, performing a variety of acts to captivate and amuse. From jugglers to carolers, these performers bring an extra dose of Christmas cheer, creating an immersive festive experience throughout the town.

Main Stage Performances and Timetable

Market Square’s main stage will be the centre of live entertainment, featuring performances from local talents, special guests, and beloved characters:

• 3.00 PM - Vibe 1 Radio: Local radio station Vibe 1 will broadcast live from the event, giving real-time updates, music, and shoutouts to attendees. Their presence adds to the energetic atmosphere and keeps everyone in the loop.

• 3.20pm - Stafford's Harvest Gospel Choir

• 3.50 PM - The Cartoon Kings: Stafford’s own popular band, The Cartoon Kings, will perform a lively set on stage, bringing their signature mix of pop and rock covers that are sure to get the crowd dancing. Known for their energetic shows, the band will add a celebratory vibe to the afternoon’s entertainment.

• 4.40 PM - The Mayor, Santa and Gatehouse Panto Cast – Jack and the Beanstalk: The cast of this year’s Gatehouse Theatre pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, will take the stage for a sneak peek of their holiday show. These performers will bring some panto magic to the day, with a lively preview full of jokes, songs, and interaction. For those interested in the full show, you can book tickets for Jack and the Beanstalk here, with performances running through the festive season.

• 5.00 PM - The Big Switch-On and Fireworks

• 5.05 PM - The Cartoon Kings

• 6.00 PM - Stage Closes

Olympic Heroes Lead the Celebration

As a special highlight, three of Staffordshire’s very own Olympians – Joe Clarke, Adam Burgess, and Dan Bigham – will join the Mayor of Stafford Borough on stage to lead the countdown for the lights switch-on. Recognised for their achievements and connection to the local area, these athletes bring a unique touch to the event.

Stafford’s Sporting Stars: Meet the Olympians

Joe Clarke

Joe Clarke, originally from Stone near Stafford, became a national hero when he won the gold medal in slalom canoeing at the 2016 Rio Olympics. His victory was not only a personal triumph but also a historic achievement for British sports, as he became the first Briton to win gold in the men’s K1 event. Joe has continued to represent the UK, inspiring young athletes and promoting the sport throughout the country. His appearance at the switch-on reflects his ongoing connection to the local community that supported his journey.

Adam Burgess

Also hailing from Stone, Adam Burgess has long been a friend and training partner of Joe Clarke. Adam represented Britain at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, competing in the C1 category. His impressive skills, combined with his dedication to the sport, have earned him admiration within the community and beyond. Adam’s participation in the switch-on brings him full circle back to Staffordshire, allowing local fans to celebrate his achievements alongside him.

Dan Bigham

Dan Bigham, a Staffordshire native, has made waves in the world of cycling both as an elite track cyclist and as a sports engineer. Known for pushing the boundaries in competitive cycling technology, Dan has worked with British Cycling and the renowned Ineos Grenadiers team. His innovative approach has helped drive British cycling’s success, making him an inspiration not only for athletes but also for sports enthusiasts interested in engineering and technology. Dan’s attendance at the switch-on reflects the diversity of talent and passion within the Staffordshire community.

5:00 PM – The Big Switch-On

The evening will culminate in the grand switch-on of Stafford’s Christmas lights. At 5:00 PM, Joe Clarke, Adam Burgess, Dan Bigham, and the Mayor of Stafford Borough will lead the crowd in the countdown.

As the lights illuminate Market Square, the town’s Christmas tree and decorations will add a magical glow, transforming the square into a winter wonderland. A stunning fireworks display will follow the switch-on, filling the night sky with colour and providing a breathtaking finale to the evening.

Additional Attractions

• Father Christmas Appearances: Throughout the day, Father Christmas will make appearances around Market Square, offering children a chance to share their Christmas wishes. With a festive grotto set up nearby, families can capture the moment with a keepsake photo.

• Festive Market: The festive market will feature an array of local vendors selling unique gifts, handmade crafts, and seasonal treats. Whether you’re looking for last-minute Christmas gifts or just want to explore the stalls, the market offers a warm and festive shopping experience.

• Christmas Trail: The Christmas Trail, organised by Stafford Borough Council, will guide visitors around town with prizes and discounts at local shops, cafes, and the Gatehouse Theatre. The trail provides an excellent way to discover Stafford’s hidden gems and support local businesses during the holiday season.

A Growing Tradition

The Stafford Christmas Lights Switch-On has become one of the town’s most popular events, drawing in more than 12,000 attendees last year. As the event grows, so does its significance within the community. What started as a small gathering has evolved into a large-scale celebration that brings people together from across Staffordshire and beyond. Each year builds on the last, with the fireworks display, live performances, and grand tree lighting making it a highlight of Stafford’s festive season.

This event isn’t just about turning on lights; it’s a symbol of Stafford’s community spirit and a way for people to celebrate the season together. Organisers aim to create an event that people look forward to all year, showcasing local talent, culture, and creativity. With something for everyone, from children’s rides to musical performances, it’s a tradition that appeals to all ages.

Safety and Accessibility

To ensure everyone’s safety, several measures are in place:

• Traffic Restrictions: Roads around the town centre will be closed to create a safe, pedestrian-friendly environment for families. The closures allow people to move around freely without the worry of traffic.

• Large Video Screen: To ensure everyone can see the stage, a large video screen will be set up in Market Square, providing a clear view of the main stage performances and the switch-on ceremony.

• Arrival Advice: Due to the high attendance expected, it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. For safety reasons, the main viewing area may temporarily close around 4:45 PM if necessary.

Getting to Stafford

Whether you’re local or visiting from out of town, Stafford is easily accessible:

• By Train: Stafford Railway Station is only a short walk from the town centre, making public transport an easy option for visitors from nearby cities.

• By Car: Several car parks are available in the town centre, although spaces are expected to fill up quickly. Arriving early or considering alternative transportation is advised.

Stafford’s location on the M6 motorway makes it accessible by car from surrounding areas, adding to its appeal as a regional destination for holiday festivities.

Don’t Miss Out on the Festivities

The Christmas Lights Switch-On in Stafford is an unmissable event that encapsulates the joy and excitement of the holiday season. The festivities will be hosted by Vibe 1 Radio station presenters Cat K and Stu Haycock and the line-up includes local sporting heroes, the Cartoon Kings, and a sneak peek from the Gatehouse Theatre’s pantomime, it’s an event that promises to be truly special. The lights, fireworks, and festive atmosphere are bound to create cherished memories for all who attend.

Whether you’re a Stafford resident or a visitor, make sure to experience the magic of the switch-on this year. For those looking to extend the festivities, consider booking tickets to the Gatehouse Theatre’s Jack and the Beanstalk panto, which will continue the holiday spirit well into the season. So, gather your loved ones, wrap up warm, and join Stafford’s town centre on 16 November 2024 for a day filled with joy, community, and holiday magic.