Saturday 16 November, from 12noon to 7pm, in Oldham town centre
Join us for the most magical event of the year as the Oldham Christmas Lights Switch-On returns on Saturday 16 November. With festive fun for the whole family, this year’s celebration promises to be bigger and brighter than ever and features a very special guest.
Kids' Rides and Activities
The fun kicks off at Market Place and the High Street centre from 12pm until 7pm with loads of exciting rides for the little ones, including:
• Helter Skelter
• Bungee Trampoline
• Hook a Duck
• Juvenile Para Ride
Over at Spindles, from 12pm to 4pm, families can enjoy face painting, festive crafts, Christmas-themed virtual reality experiences, and meet strolling Christmas characters.
The Mencap Choir will be on hand in the shopping centre to get you in the festive spirit from 12noon to 1pm – singing some classic Christmas carols.
Oldham Light Switch-On Show – Parliament Square
Don’t miss Bluey from the hit kids’ TV show, Oldham Roughyeds, Father Christmas and popular panto characters at the switch on show from 4.45pm as they build up to switch on the Christmas lights at 6pm.
Stick around as the night lights up with a dazzling firework and laser show following the show.
Bluey will also be making appearances throughout the day at:
• 2.20pm - Tommyfield Market Hall
• 3.25pm - Spindles Shopping Centre
• 4.35pm - The Switch on stage at Parliament Square
Please note, that the show will be busy due to the popularity of Bluey. If you’re concerned about the crowds, you can watch the live show from the large viewing screens at:
• The top of Greaves Street next to the taxi rank
• The High Street, outside Subway
Glow Bus and Light Projections – Union Street, outside Positive Steps
The magical Glow Bus is also in the town centre from 9am, showcasing local artwork and celebrating Oldham’s vibrant creativity. Then, at 4pm, watch as stunning light projections illuminate the Lyceum Theatre, adding an extra visual aspect to the festivities.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re coming to see Bluey, enjoy the kids rides, or to experience the spectacular fireworks, the Oldham Christmas Lights Switch-On has something for everyone.
If you’re driving to the town centre on the day, check out where the nearest car parks are here: Oldham town centre car parks | Oldham town centre car parks | Oldham Council
Enjoy free parking for the event (Saturday 16 November). From 3pm onwards, all Council-managed town centre car parks will have covered payment machines, so you can park and head straight to the festivities.
If you arrive between 12pm and 3pm, remember to take a ticket from the machine and display it in your vehicle for free parking as it’s three hours free parking every Saturday and Sunday.
Spindles parking is also free after 3pm, with the barriers open—no ticket needed. If you arrive before 3pm, it’s just £1 for three hours, but you must take a ticket. The shopping centre closes at 6pm, and the car park remains open until 9pm, with access from Silver Street.
Travelling by public transport?
You can find out more and plan your route on the Bee Network webpage
Greaves Street Closure
Please be aware that Greaves Street will be closed this Saturday (16 November) from, 8am to 8pm for the annual Christmas Light Switch-On event. The taxi rank will be temporarily relocated to Hunters Lane, near the Town Hall Tavern.
We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for understanding as we celebrate the festive season!
