Festive Fun Awaits as Hailsham Gears Up for Christmas Lights Switch-On Event

Preparations are well underway for this year’s Christmas Lights Switch-On, taking place on Friday 28 November. Following the success of last year’s celebration, this year’s event promises to be even bigger, drawing large crowds for an afternoon and evening filled with festive entertainment, local shopping and community spirit.

From 2pm, Vicarage Field and the High Street will be transformed into a bustling Christmas market, showcasing an array of local traders offering seasonal gifts, crafts and refreshments. Visitors can look forward to mulled wine, festive flowers, homemade bakes, artisan gifts and much more.

Confirmed traders include: Hailsham Lions (mulled wine and candy floss), Waffle Wagon (hot waffles), Misty Acre (festive flowers), One of a Kind (children’s clothing and handmade gifts), Mouse House (cheese), Love 1918 (wax melts), Cinnabun (baked goods), Sister’s Sweets ‘n’ Sips (confectionery), Jo Ro Bakes & Daisy Designs (baked goods) and Bumbling Bee Man (honey).

Other participants include Create Records (music memorabilia), Debbie’s Crafty Creations (crafts), J’s Cakes and Bakes, The Rum Infusionist (rum products), Paul West (gifts), Printopia (3D prints), Ye Old Spud (jacket potatoes), Falafel Box (vegan food), Fossils and Gemstones, Melissa Locke (gifts) and Scrumdiddlyumptious (confectionery).

Community organisations will also be represented, including the RAF Cadets (chocolate tombola), Demelza Hospice Care for Children (gifts) and Hailsham Foodbank (tombola).

Entertainment will run throughout the afternoon, beginning with carols from Hailsham Choral Society at 2.30pm, followed by performances from Hailsham Academy pupils. At 4.30pm, Santa Claus, courtesy of Hailsham Rotary Club, will make a special appearance to greet children and hand out sweets.

The highlight of the day – the official lights switch-on at 6pm – will mark the start of Hailsham’s festive season. Hailsham FM will be broadcasting live throughout the event, keeping spirits high with Christmas music and interviews.

After the lights are illuminated, Hailsham Parish Church will welcome visitors inside for complimentary hot chocolate and marshmallows.

To ensure public safety, Hailsham High Street will be closed to traffic from approximately 4pm until the event concludes around 8pm.

Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Town Council’s Communities Committee, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch-On is one of the highlights of Hailsham’s calendar. It brings families, residents and visitors together to celebrate the start of the festive season while supporting local traders and community groups. Each year the event grows in popularity, and it’s wonderful to see such a strong community spirit shining through.”

“We look forward to welcoming everyone on 28 November for what promises to be another joyful and well-supported event – a perfect way to start the Christmas season in Hailsham.”

Cllr Ricketts added: “Events like the Christmas Lights Switch-On take months of planning and coordination, and we’re extremely grateful to the local organisations, volunteers and partners who help make it all happen. We’re confident this year’s event will once again offer a safe, enjoyable and truly festive experience for everyone.”