Hailsham Ready to Shine: Christmas Lights Switch-On This Friday

Final preparations are in full swing for Hailsham’s much-loved Christmas Lights Switch-On, taking place this Friday (28 November). Following the success of last year’s celebrations, this year’s event is set to be even bigger – drawing large crowds for an afternoon and evening packed with festive entertainment, family fun and local shopping.

From 2pm Friday, Vicarage Field will burst into life as a vibrant Christmas market, featuring a wide range of local traders offering seasonal gifts, crafts and festive refreshments. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, homemade bakes, artisan stalls 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).

Additional stalls 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).

Local community groups will also be taking part, including the RAF Cadets (chocolate tombola), Demelza Hospice Care for Children (gifts) and Hailsham Foodbank (tombola).

Entertainment begins at 2.30pm on the day, starting with carols from the Hailsham Choral Society, 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 event, the official Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm, will mark the true start of Hailsham’s festive season. Hailsham FM will broadcast live throughout the afternoon and evening with Christmas music, updates and interviews.

After the lights are illuminated, Hailsham Parish Church will open its doors to offer visitors complimentary hot chocolate and marshmallows.

For public safety, please note that Hailsham High Street will be closed to traffic from approximately 4pm to 8pm this Friday.

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 strong community spirit shining through.”

She added: “We look forward to welcoming everyone this Friday for what promises to be another joyful and well-supported event – a perfect way to begin the Christmas season in Hailsham.”

Cllr Ricketts also acknowledged the work involved behind the scenes: “Events like the Christmas Lights Switch-On take months of planning and coordination, and we’re extremely grateful to the Town Council staff, local organisations 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.”