Caitlin Minter
14th October 2019

The streets are filled with jingle bells ringing and after a few eggnogs people are singing. Oh the season of mince pies and mulled wine is here, so it’s time to spread some Christmas time cheer.

Do they know it’s Christmas at all? Well they soon will as Kent will be illuminated with twinkling fairy lights and Xmas trees. So prepare yourself as we count down the top light switch ons to get you in the yuletide spirit.

Canterbury Christmas Spectacular

On Friday November 15th, between 4 and 6pm, get yourself over to the historic city of Canterbury to see it illuminated in magical merriment. The cast of Marlowe’s Mother Goose Pantomime will be counting down to the big switch-on, marking the opening of their Christmas market. This festive extravaganza is set to be bigger and better than ever with a helter skelter, giant snow globe and an xmas trail that opens on November 25th.

Too cool for yule…

The Royal Tunbridge Wells Christmas Lights

For a truly royal start to the Christmas period there is only one place to visit on November 14th, the beautiful Tunbridge Wells of course! There’ll be a whole host of festive family activities to enjoy and a chance to see Santa Claus himself!

A round of santa-plause…

Sandwich’s Festive Joy

Gather round on November 30th in the beautiful Guildhall Forecourt and watch in wonder as the lights come on, with a wonderful parade through the town to celebrate this brilliant day. There’ll be entertainment around every corner and of course some delicious food to enjoy from the food stalls.

Have your elf a merry little Christmas…

Tenterden Illuminations

Tenterden kicks off their Christmas celebration on Saturday November 23rd with an impressive light procession and switch-on. This also marks the opening of their traditional Christmas market set along a high street full of independent retailers. If Jack Frost is nipping at your nose, warm up with a scrumptious hot chocolate in one of the quirky coffee shops nearby.

Best in snow…

Faversham Christmas Lights

Expect a beautiful blend of quaint town flair and good old fashioned Christmas spirit at the Faversham Christmas light switch on, on November 23rd. Specific details of the event are yet to be confirmed but you’re sure to be in awe with the huge Christmas tree in the square and streets lined with fun and festive decorations.  

Time to get Santa-mental…

Creative Folkestone

Folkestone will be alight from 15th November, with an evening song and cheer at the Creative Quarter's Christmas light switch-on. Look out for local choirs, festive spirit, and window displays to wow the crowd. Plus, with shops open for the evening, it's the perfect time to make a start on picking up a present or two. 

Gravesham Christmas lights

From 3.30 on 22nd November, prepare for excitement as Gravesend will be ablaze with entertainment. Watch as cast from Beauty and the Best take to the streets before following along the lantern-lit parade towards the lighting of the Christmas tree.