Your guide to the best festive events in Cumbria this Christmas!
SO THIS IS CHRISTMAS…
From twinkling lights to bustling markets, here’s your guide to the best festive events and local celebrations to get you in the Christmas spirit!
by Danni Murphy
The festive season is upon us, and Cumbria is coming alive with the magic of Christmas!
From twinkling light switch-ons to bustling markets filled with local crafts, delicious treats, and plenty of festive cheer, there’s something special happening in every corner of the county.
Whether you’re shopping for gifts, enjoying a mug of mulled wine, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, here’s our round-up of the best Christmas markets and light switch-ons taking place across Cumbria this year.
Whitehaven Christmas Light Switch-On
Saturday 15 November 2025
Time: 11am – 5pm
Lights On: 4:30pm
Location: Market Place, Whitehaven
Kick off the festive season at Whitehaven’s annual Christmas Light Switch-On Event. The day will be hosted by local DJ Tony Pierce, with live performances from Grace Savage, Lee Adams, and the Committed2Rock Choir, alongside entertainment from local theatre and dance schools.
The lights will be switched on at 4:30pm, filling the Market Place with Christmas cheer. Bring family and friends to enjoy a day full of music, laughter, and festive fun.
Maryport Christmas Lights Switch-On
Saturday 15 November 2025
Time: Late morning – 5pm
Lights On: 5pm
Location: Senhouse Street, Maryport
Maryport’s festivities kick off with fairground rides along Senhouse Street and live entertainment from 1:00pm on the outdoor stage, hosted by Cookie.
Free tea and coffee will be available for visitors.
Santa’s Grotto returns at the Labour Club, with free festive face-painting for children. Later in the afternoon, enjoy mince pies and mulled wine before the big switch-on at 5:00pm.
Carlisle Christmas Lights Switch-On
Sunday 16 November 2025
Time: 3pm – 5:30pm
Lights On: 5pm
Location: Outside the Old Town Hall, Carlisle City Centre
Carlisle’s city centre will sparkle with festive magic as the Christmas Lights Switch-On returns for another dazzling year.
Taking place outside the Old Town Hall, the celebrations will run from 3:00pm until 5:30pm, with the grand switch-on at 5:00pm, illuminating the city in twinkling Christmas lights and officially marking the start of the festive season in Carlisle.
Keswick Christmas Lights Switch-On
Friday 21 November 2025
Time: Christmas Food & Gift Fayre from 10am
Lights On: 5:15pm and 7pm
Location: Packhorse Court and Market Square
Keswick’s Christmas Lights Switch-On takes place on Friday, 21st November 2025, with festivities beginning at 10am in Packhorse Court for the Christmas Food and Gift Fayre. Enjoy performances from St Herbert’s C of E School Choir and the Keswick Amateur Operatic Society Singers, plus a special visit from Peter Rabbit to switch on the Packhorse Court lights.
The celebrations continue in the Market Square with entertainment from Theatre by the Lake, live music by The Kasios, and the main switch-on at 7pm by the Keswick Community Housing Trust, in recognition of their King’s Award. Taylor’s Funfair will also be in town to add to the festive fun.
The event’s Christmas tree is sponsored by Hope Park Games and Café, with thanks to the Rotary Club of Keswick and Keswick Town Council. Visitors are kindly asked not to bring dogs due to the large crowds.
Penrith Christmas Sparkle
Saturday 22 November 2025
Time: from 12noon
Lights On: 6pm
Location: Devonshire St, Penrith
Festivities begin at noon with food stalls, small rides, and live music along Devonshire Street.
At 2:00pm, Santa and his elves arrive to greet families, followed by performances from choirs and local entertainers throughout the afternoon.
The famous “Anything Wheeled” Parade sets off at 5:30pm, looping the town centre twice before the decorated vehicles go on display.
At 6:00pm, Santa and the Mayor, joined by a special local guest, will officially switch on the town’s lights.
Funds raised from the event will support: Penrith Mountain Rescue.
Cockermouth Christmas Lights Switch-On
Sunday 23 November 2025
Time: 1pm – 6pm
Lights On: TBC
Location: Main Street
Cockermouth’s annual Christmas celebration will feature live entertainment, including performances from local schools and musicians on the main stage.
Browse a selection of food and drink stalls serving festive favourites, and enjoy the funfair for all ages.
Santa will be in his Grotto, ready to meet children before the big switch-on later in the afternoon.
Whitehaven Christmas Market & Harbour Firework Show
Friday 5 December 2025
Time: 10am – 4pm, 5:15 – 5:30pm
Location: St Nicholas Gardens & Whitehaven Harbour
The festivities continue in Whitehaven with the Christmas Market at St Nicholas Gardens.Browse local stalls selling festive food, drinks, crafts, and gifts, and enjoy the joyful atmosphere. The celebrations will end with a spectacular firework display over Whitehaven Harbour, lighting up the night sky in a stunning finale to the town’s Christmas season.
Egremont Winter Wonderland
Sunday 7 December 2025
Time: (keep an eye on their FB page)
Location: Main Street, Egremont
Egremont Winter Wonderland takes place on Sunday 7th December, promising a festive day for all ages.
With over 40 stalls selling food, drinks, crafts, gifts, and stocking fillers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Local talent will be showcased on the main stage, while street entertainment delights visitors throughout the day. As always, there will be surprises around every corner, adding to the festive fun.
The celebrations will conclude with a spectacular firework display from Egremont Castle at 6pm, making it a magical day for the whole community.
To learn more about what’s happening, follow Cumbria Guide on our social media
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