Get ready to celebrate the most magical time of the year as Ilford lights up for Christmas! On 30th November 2024, join us for the highly anticipated Christmas Light Switch On Event, where the town centre will come alive with festive fun, twinkling lights, and endless activities for all ages. Whether you're a local or visiting for the day, this is the ultimate holiday experience you won't want to miss!

Taking place across High Road, Exchange Ilford, and Mercato Ilford, this day is packed with entertainment, excitement, and community spirit. Here's everything you need to know about what's happening and how to get involved.

How the Community Can Get Involved – Register by 25th October!

This year, we’re inviting the Ilford community to be at the heart of the celebration! Whether you’re a talented singer, dancer, performer, or simply want to share in the festive cheer, there are three fantastic ways you can join in on the fun:

1. Last Christmas Sing Along
   • Do you love singing along to your favourite holiday tunes? Now’s your chance to perform on the big stage as part of the Last Christmas Sing Along. Whether you’re a solo singer, a choir, or just want to join in with a group of friends, we’d love to have you be part of this joyful event. Register by 25th October to secure your spot and help us create a magical sing-along that will get everyone in the festive mood!
2. Free Performance Stage
   • The Performance Stage is open to local performers, bands, dance groups, and more. This is your opportunity to share your talent with a large audience and be part of Ilford’s biggest Christmas event. From traditional holiday performances to contemporary acts, we welcome a wide variety of performances that showcase the creativity and talent of our local community. Register by 25th October to perform and bring the festive magic to life!
3. Talent Competition
   • Think you’ve got what it takes to wow the crowds? Enter the Talent Competition for your chance to showcase your skills and compete for prizes. We’re looking for a wide range of talents, including singing, dancing, magic, comedy, and more! Whether you’re performing solo or as part of a group, this is your chance to step into the spotlight and show off your abilities. To take part, make sure to register by 25th October and prepare to dazzle both the judges and the audience.

These three opportunities are your chance to become a star of the Christmas Light Switch On Event, so don’t wait – head to the registration page and sign up today! The registration links are below.

What to Expect on the Day

Feel the holiday magic as we come together for the Last Christmas Sing Along, a heart warming gathering where everyone is invited to join in and sing their favourite Christmas tune! This your chance to be the best Wham tribute singer, this sing-along will have everyone feeling the festive cheer as we sing Last Christmas. Warm up your vocal cords, bring your family and friends, and be part of the magic as we fill the air with joyful music.

Free Performance Stage – Live Entertainment for All!

Ilford’s Performance Stage will feature a range of live performances from talented local artists, and musicians. With shows running throughout the day, the stage promises to be a hub of energy, creativity, and entertainment.

Look forward to:

• Local bands and solo artists who will bring festive tunes and original music to the heart of Ilford.
• Special guest appearances at various intervals throughout the day – all free and open for the community to enjoy!

Talent Competition – Show Off Your Skills and Win!

Do you have a hidden talent? Now’s your chance to shine! The Talent Competition is open to individuals and groups who want to take the stage and showcase their abilities in front of a live audience. From dancing to magic tricks, comedy, or something completely unique – all talents are welcome! T&Cs apply.

Spectacular Fireworks Displays

As day turns into night, prepare to be dazzled by two incredible Fireworks Displays at 5 pm and 6:30 pm. These stunning shows will light up the sky above Ilford, filling the town with festive colours and joy. The perfect way to end a day of celebration, the fireworks will leave everyone in awe.

Experience the Magic Across Town

In addition to the performances and competitions, there will be plenty more happening around Ilford throughout the day:

• Snowfall on the High Road – Step into a winter wonderland as the High Road is transformed by a magical snowfall, creating the perfect holiday scene.
• Confetti Blast Cannons – Adding extra fun to the day, keep an eye out for the confetti cannons that will bring bursts of festive cheer to the streets.
• Climbing Activities, and Slide Races – For those looking for adventure, try out our thrilling activities like water zorbing, climbing walls, and slide races – perfect for kids and grown-ups alike.
• Meet the Grinch, Enchanted Lion, and Dinosaur Ride – Bring the little ones along to meet these fun and festive characters, including a larger-than-life dinosaur ride they won’t forget.
• Virtual Gaming Experiences – Take a break from the cold and dive into exciting virtual reality games.
• Wrestling Matches – Witness some action-packed wrestling matches that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Ilford's First-Ever Christmas Chalets

Adding a traditional touch to the festivities, Ilford’s First-Ever Christmas Chalets will line the streets, offering a wide range of food, crafts, and festive goods. Perfect for picking up unique gifts and enjoying seasonal treats, the chalets bring an extra dose of holiday spirit to the event. Make sure to stop by and support the local traders who are joining us for the very first time this year.

Festive Fun for the Whole Family

The Christmas Light Switch On Event promises a day full of joy, laughter, and festive fun for families and friends. From fair rides and archery to slide races and climbing activities, there’s no shortage of things to do. And don’t forget to visit Santa’s Grotto, where children can meet Santa and take home a special memory of the day.

Don’t Miss Out – Save the Date!

This year’s Christmas Light Switch On Event is shaping up to be Ilford’s biggest and best yet. So save the date, bring your loved ones, and join us on 30th November 2024 between 12 pm and 7 pm for an unforgettable day of festive fun, entertainment, and holiday spirit. Take advantage of the free opportunities that will be made available.

To find out more details or register for the talent competition, sing-along, or performance stage, check out the event pages:

• Ilford Festive Season Market
• Christmas inIlford Talent Showcase
• 2024 Christmas inIlford Last Christmas Sing Along
• Christmas inIlford Free Performance Stage