Derry city centre gears up for dazzling light switch-on celebration

Derry city centre is set to burst into festive colour and cheer this Friday, November 21st, as thousands gather to welcome the return of the annual Christmas Light Switch-On. The much-loved procession will be led by Santa Claus himself, joined by the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, as they illuminate the city for Christmas 2025.

The Christmas Procession begins at 6.30pm on Bishop Street and will make its way through the city, concluding at Victoria Market Car Park after passing the Guildhall, where the famous 60ft Christmas tree will be lit up for the season.

Santa and the Mayor will be accompanied by a host of festive characters, sparkling mobile Christmas installations, and talented local dance groups. As the parade winds through the city, each section of the route will be illuminated, spreading Christmas magic along the way.

Mayor McHugh said: "The Christmas Light Switch-On is one of the most joyful moments of our year. It’s a time when families, neighbours, and visitors come together to share in the wonder of the season. I can’t wait to join Santa and see Derry shine brighter than ever as we kick off our Christmas celebrations in style."

The full parade route is as follows: Bishop Street, The Diamond, Ferryquay Street, Ferryquay Gate, Orchard Street, Foyle Street, Guildhall Square, Waterloo Place, Strand Road, finishing at Victoria Market.

Attendees are encouraged to line the parade route to enjoy the best views, rather than gathering in Guildhall Square, where large crowds are expected.

To support event setup and ensure public safety, minor traffic diversions will be in place around the parade route on Friday. While City Centre and Waterside car parks will remain open, there will be minor closures in place and the public is strongly encouraged to use public transport or walk to the event where possible. Full bus details are available at www.translink.com.

Last weekend’s Guildhall Craft Fair marked the official start of the Council’s 2025 Christmas programme, which also features Christmas Light Switch on in Strabane on Saturday, November 22, Mayor McHugh’s Christmas Tea Dances in Derry and Strabane and his Charity Christmas Party Night at the Guildhall.

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Plan your festive Derry Strabane experience and explore the full programme at www.derrystrabane.com/Christmas.