Saltash Christmas lights switch-on set for Friday 13 November

Friday the 13th doesn’t usually come with much good news attached. In Saltash, it’s the night the town lights up for Christmas.

The Saltash Christmas Lights Switch-On Event returns next Friday (13 November), with Santa arriving by sleigh, a festive parade, school choirs, late night shopping and the start of the Elf Hunt along Fore Street.

When and where

Saltash Town Council is hosting the evening in partnership with Saltash Chamber of Commerce and Saltash Rotary Club.

Things get going at 6pm. The official switch-on moment is planned for around 6.30pm, outside Superdrug.

📷Credit: Mike Pitches Photography

What’s happening on the night

Expect another vibrant display, a visit from Santa in his sleigh, a festive parade, school choir performances, late night shopping and a few special visitors.

The popular Elf Hunt also begins on the night, with many shops along Fore Street taking part. There are prizes for the top winners and treats for anyone who joins in. The businesses and people who donated this year’s prizes are named on the Town Council’s dedicated Facebook event page, which also has more details about the evening.

Last year set the bar

The 2025 event brought an enhanced Christmas display and plenty of memorable moments. Santa, the Town Crier and the Mayor all took part in the festive parade. The Golden Girl and the Ice Queen made an appearance, and local school groups sang carols.

This year’s switch-on has been planned through a Saltash Town Council working group, which has worked closely with industry professionals on the delivery.

📷Credit: Mike Pitches Photography

The lights behind the switch-on

After a formal tender process, the Town Council secured a three-year contract in 2025 with qualified contractors to provide the lights. The deal covers design, supply, installation, maintenance and removal.

The total investment over the three years is £79,960.20. The council says the aim is modern, sustainable lighting displays for a range of festive and seasonal events, designed to delight residents and visitors.

This year’s town centre festive lighting and the switch-on event have been made possible in part thanks to funding from Cornwall Council. The Town Council says the evening is also about encouraging people to support the local economy by shopping locally.

What the Mayor says

Mayor of Saltash, Cllr Brian Stoyel, said: “Saltash Town Council is proud to continue investing in events and activities that bring our community together and showcase everything that makes our town special. The Christmas Lights Switch-On is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our town, support our town centre and create lasting memories with family and friends.

“This event would not be possible without the support of our partners and contributors, including Saltash Rotary Club, Saltash Chamber of Commerce, local schools, local businesses, Cornwall Council through its funding support, and all those working hard behind the scenes to bring the event to life.

“I am delighted that this popular event will return soon and I look forward to seeing Saltash illuminated once again as we welcome the festive season.”

📷Credit: Mike Pitches Photography