Downpatrick Christmas Lights Switch-On 2026

Downpatrick Christmas Lights Switch-On 2026 – Santa, Live Music and Festive Family Fun
Celebrate the magic of Christmas at the Downpatrick Christmas Lights Switch-On 2026, taking place on Friday 27 November, with festive entertainment, Christmas shopping, storytelling and family-friendly activities throughout the town centre.

Downpatrick will come alive with Christmas cheer as local venues host an exciting programme of seasonal celebrations, including live music, a Christmas craft fair, children's activities and a special visit from Santa Claus.

The highlight of the evening will be the official Christmas tree lights switch-on at St Patrick Square at 7:30pm, when Santa lights up Downpatrick for the festive season.

Downpatrick Christmas Lights Switch-On – St Patrick Square
Date: Friday 27 November 2026
Time: 6pm – 8pm
Location: St Patrick Square, Downpatrick
Christmas Tree Lights Switch-On: 7:30pm

Bring the family along to St Patrick Square for an evening of festive entertainment and Christmas celebrations.

Enjoy live music from The Just Adam Band, family activities and plenty of seasonal cheer as the town gathers to welcome Christmas.

At 7:30pm, Santa Claus will officially switch on the Christmas tree lights, creating a magical moment for children and families.

Christmas Stories & Silver Sounds – Down County Museum
Date: Friday 27 November 2026
Time: 5pm – 8pm
Location: Down County Museum, Downpatrick
Admission: Free

Experience a magical evening of festive storytelling, traditional Christmas music and creative family activities at Down County Museum.

The programme includes:

Christmas storytelling with Anne Harper, bringing festive tales to life.
Live seasonal music from Wellington Memorial Silver Band, performing Christmas favourites.
Family arts and crafts, offering creative activities for children.
Sensory workshops, providing an inclusive festive experience for visitors with additional needs.
The event is free to attend, although advance booking is required for the sensory workshops.

Find out more about Christmas Stories & Silver Sounds.

Christmas Craft Fair – Down Arts Centre
Date: Friday 27 November 2026
Time: 6pm – 9pm
Location: Down Arts Centre, Downpatrick

Discover unique handmade Christmas gifts and support talented local artists, crafters and independent makers at the Down Arts Centre Christmas Craft Fair.

Browse a wonderful selection of festive gifts while enjoying a relaxed evening of Christmas shopping and seasonal entertainment.

Visitors can look forward to:

Handmade Christmas gifts and locally produced crafts.
Stalls featuring talented local artists and makers.
Live music throughout the evening.
Children's Christmas arts and crafts activities.
Festive face painting with Mrs Claus.
Mulled wine and hot chocolate to enjoy while exploring the fair.
Whether you're searching for a special Christmas present or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, the craft fair is a great opportunity to shop local and support creative businesses.

Find out more about the Down Arts Centre Christmas Craft Fair.

Make a Festive Evening of It in Downpatrick
With Christmas celebrations taking place across several locations, visitors can enjoy a full evening of entertainment, shopping and family activities.

Start your evening at Down County Museum from 5pm, before exploring the Christmas Craft Fair at Down Arts Centre or heading to St Patrick Square for live entertainment.

Don't miss the main event at 7:30pm, when Santa switches on Downpatrick's Christmas tree lights.

Afterwards, visitors can continue enjoying the Christmas Craft Fair, which remains open until 9pm.

The celebrations also provide an excellent opportunity to explore Downpatrick's independent shops, cafés and restaurants while supporting local businesses during the festive season.

Downpatrick Christmas Celebrations 2026 – Event Details
Date: Friday 27 November 2026
Location: Downpatrick, County Down, Northern Ireland
Main Lights Switch-On: 7:30pm at St Patrick Square
Main Entertainment: 6pm – 8pm
Down County Museum Activities: 5pm – 8pm
Down Arts Centre Christmas Craft Fair: 6pm – 9pm

Highlights: Santa Claus, The Just Adam Band, festive storytelling, silver band performances, Christmas crafts, family entertainment and local shopping.

Celebrate Christmas in Downpatrick
Whether you're planning a festive family outing, looking for handmade Christmas presents or hoping to see Santa switch on the Christmas lights, Downpatrick's Christmas celebrations on 27 November 2026 offer something for all ages.

Bring your family and friends, wrap up warm and enjoy the magic of Christmas in one of County Down's historic towns.

For more information and updates, visit Visit Mourne Gullion Strangford.

Please note: Event activities, dates and times may be subject to change. Advance booking is required for sensory workshops at Down County Museum. Visitors should check with the individual organisers before travelling.