Oakengates Christmas Lights Switch-On

Oakengates, in Telford, holds its Christmas lights switch-on on Saturday 28 November 2026, from 2pm to 7pm across Market Street, Oxford Street and Theatre Square. The lights themselves come on at 6pm.

What’s on

Oakengates Town Council has lined up a family afternoon: a chance to meet Santa, live music from local choirs and singers, funfair rides and inflatables for children, and festive stalls. It builds through the afternoon to the moment at six o’clock when the town’s Christmas lights come on.

Why it’s worth it

This is a classic town switch-on: free, local and relaxed. The stalls are run by local people and groups, the performers are from the community, and it is small enough that children can actually see what is going on — a real advantage over the big-city events.

Getting there

Oakengates station, on the line between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury, is a few minutes’ walk from the town centre. Telford Central is one stop away. Expect road closures in the centre during the event.

Make a day of it

Ironbridge Gorge — the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and a World Heritage Site — is a short drive south, and Blists Hill Victorian Town there runs its own Christmas events. Shrewsbury and its Christmas shopping are twenty minutes away by train.

Worth knowing

28 November is a popular date for switch-ons — Derby and Thatcham are on the same evening — so if you are planning a weekend away, check which suits you best.

Dress for standing still outdoors after dark — see our guide to what to wear.

When to go

The event starts at 2pm, so there is no need to wait until dark: the stalls, rides and music make the afternoon worthwhile, and you can stay on for the lights at six.