Wrap up warm and head out after-dark to one of many colourful Christmas light events in South East England. Wander through dazzling light tunnels and colourful woodlands, marvel at exquisitely dressed Christmas trees and bespoke light installations, be amazed by animated light projections and stunning lantern festivals, all brightening up the long winter nights. These enchanting displays will ignite your holiday spirit, bring festive cheer and are a fantastic way to celebrate this special time of the year.
Why not catch up with family and friends at one of the free local festive light-switch on's that will be gracing our towns and villages in the lead up to Christmas Day. With twinkling fairy lights, tasty treats, Christmas carols and late-night shopping, these events are a great excuse to get together and start the festive season as you mean to go on.
Our featured illuminations showcase some of the best festive lights trail throughout South East England in starting date order. Don't forget to scroll to the bottom of the page to find many more across the destination and to explore the seasonal light switch-on events.
Take a look below for a full list of Christmas Light Trails and illumination events happening across South East England this winter, with many starting in early November and running until January 2025, giving you plenty of time to head out and enjoy a sparkling-Christmas whether you live here, are on holiday or visiting friends and family over the festive season.
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Christmas
Aylesbury
This Christmas at Waddesdon, be spirited away to a magical wonderland as classic tales come to life with new decorations in the house and dazzling new light displays outside enchant and delight.
Christmas
Dover
Head along to Dover Market Square this December, and discover a range of stalls for Christmas gifts, food and drink and entertainment to enjoy on the 7th December 24.
Special Events
Brighton
Burning the Clocks is a unique community event held on the 21st of December, created by Same Sky, that brings the whole city of Brighton together to mark the shortest day of the year. Local people make lantern and parade through the city, they pass…
Show / Display
Havant
Light up your December with a truly magical evening at Staunton Farm's Enlightened trail. From 6 to 24 December, over a mile of the farm will be transformed into an enchanted wonderland filled with specially curated illuminations. Book now and…
Christmas
Haywards Heath
Sussex's award-winning lantern trail offers unforgettable "wow moments" for the whole family with a new route, exclusive art installations, and a magical Christmas Eve date.
Discover an immersive, interactive trail of hand-crafted lantern displays…
Christmas
New Alresford
Steam Illuminations returns to The Watercress Line (November to January). Experience an incredible light show on and in a steam train, consisting of thousands of coloured lights and LED wristbands, creating a kaleidoscope of different colours and…
Christmas
Fareham
Come to celebrate Fareham Town Centre Lights Switch On and visit the Indoor Christmas Market taking place inside the previous Clarks shop in Fareham Shopping Centre.
Christmas
Deal
Start your Christmas celebrations with a visit to the family-friendly Deal Annual Christmas Lights Switch On.
Head along to Deal town centre on Saturday 25th November, from 4.30pm including music, a visit from Father Christmas and ends with the…
Christmas
Princes Risborough
Mark the start of the festive season and join Princes Risborough Town Council on Saturday 30th November for Princes Risborough's annual Christmas Lights Switch On event!
Princes Risborough High Street will once again come alive with Christmas…
Christmas
Deal
Join the Georgian gentlemen for a weekend of festive fun as they prepare for Christmas at Walmer Castle. Enjoy a delightful array of activities and entertainment this holiday season!
Christmas
Windsor
Standing over 50ft tall, Garter Tower is illuminated with stunning images of St George’s Chapel’s stained glass windows, architectural details and motifs, dating back to the 15th century, as well as images created by local schoolchildren.
Christmas
Battle
See Battle Abbey in a whole new light this festive season.