Winchester Christmas Lights 2023: All you need to know

The festive lights, which were put up along High Street at the start of October, will finally be turned on this evening, November 16. 

Thousands of people will flock to the city centre to watch the magical event organised by Winchester BID, and sponsored by Dutton Gregory Solicitors.

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The Christmas lights last year (Image: Winchester BID)

Paul Spencer, Executive Director at Winchester BID: “It starts the festive season in Winchester and is a fun, family event that brings together the whole of the community and helps get everyone in the festive spirit.

"It is also the perfect opportunity to shine the spotlight on some of our community heroes.

"A special thank you to the event sponsor Dutton Gregory Solicitors and to all the businesses which sponsor the High Street Christmas tree – we couldn’t do it without you.”

Here's all you need to know: 

Where will the lights be switched on? 

The lights will be switched on in The Broadway outside the Guildhall.

What time will the lights be switched on?

The festive event will begin from 4.30pm at The Broadway and it will last until 7.30pm. It is expected that the lights will be turned on around 6.30pm.

Who will be turning on the lights?

The Winchester Christmas lights will be switched on by local heroes nominated by the public 

Who will be performing at the event?

 The event is hosted by Heart Radio and promises an evening full of festive fun, with Santa’s Sleigh and wonderful live performances from Harestock Primary School Choir, The Pilgirms' School Chamber Choir, Winchester A Capella, Integr8 Dance, Theatre Royal Winchester, Spitfire Sisters, Rock Choir and Diva Academy.  

What will the weather be like?

The Met Office has forecast heavy rain in Winchester, but it looks like that will clear by midday. 

At the time of writing, it is forecast to be cloudy and around 7C when the festive lights will be turned on.