Lincoln Christmas Light Switch On – What to expect

The Lincoln Christmas Lights Switch On event occurs every year and is a joy to watch and be part of! The event this year is scheduled for November 17th with activities starting from 4:30pm followed by the actual switch on at 6:30pm. I wanted to give you an idea of what to expect and where the best spots to stand are.

The High Street

Expect it to be busy firstly. The whole High Street will be rammed. You’ll be squished in like sardines in the build-up and then once the lights have been switched on – it’ll start emptying out. Expect the entire High Street to light up, including the Cornhill and Thors Tipi. The entire town will be surrounded by fairy lights, Christmas trees and glowing signs.

There will be events and activities on the main stage (which is usually located just in front of the War Memorial) and this year it will feature the New Theatre Royal’s pantomime guest Kerry Katona alongside her daughter Lilly McFadden. Georgia Hayes-Cowley who will be playing Cinderella in the same pantomime will be performing as well.

There will also be late night shopping opportunities in the Waterside Shopping Centre until 8pm!

The infamous ‘Lincoln’ sign

There will also probably be the infamous ‘Lincoln’ sign, renowned for the myth that a student managed to steel an 8ft ‘I’ when instead it’s purposefully missing the letter so you can stand there instead! Now this can get incredibly busy, if you want a quiet shot – follow my lead and go at midnight or incredibly early in the morning.

St Marks

St Marks is also a feature of the Christmas Lights Switch On event. In the past they’ve had photo opportunities in the main square opposite Toby Carvery/Pure Gym, and may have the same set up. The sky is usually full of lights too!