Hitchin's Christmas lights switch-on will return to the town centre on Saturday 14 November, with a mystery celebrity guest set to join Father Christmas for this year's festive celebrations.

Organisers have promised a rocking start to the Christmas season, teasing the appearance of a special guest with references to Oasis hits 'Some Might Say' and 'Rock 'n' Roll Star'.

The free event will run from 11.30am until 8pm, with live music, entertainment, food stalls and the traditional Father Christmas parade, before the town's Christmas lights are officially switched on at 6pm.

Live performances from local artists will begin at 11.30am, with this year's line-up featuring The Doorstep Elves, As One Community Choir, Herts Show Band, Hitchin Thespians and Hitchin Rock Choir, among others.

The H-Town Business Awards will also be presented at approximately 3.30pm, celebrating the town's businesses and community champions.

One of the day's highlights will be Father Christmas's parade, which begins at 5.30pm from Bancroft Recreation Ground before making its way to the Market Place.

Santa will be joined by a top-secret mystery guest, with organisers dropping musical clues about their identity ahead of the big day.

The parade will also raise money for Hitchin Tilehouse Rotary.

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Food and drink stalls will be operating throughout the day, with local favourites including The Vic, Churro Boyz and Flour 21 serving festive refreshments.

Following the official Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm, local band The New Town Centres will take to the stage to keep the celebrations going.

Hitchin Town Centre Manager Danny Pearson said: "Jingle Bells! We're delighted that THE Father Christmas will be joining us again this year to lead the parade along with his top-secret mystery guest."

He added: "The annual event is one of the highlights of Hitchin's festive calendar, drawing hundreds of visitors to the Market Place and surrounding streets to enjoy live music, food, shopping and community spirit."

The event is sponsored by Gatwards of Hitchin and N8 Health, with support from Concept Events.

Hitchin Christmas Lights Switch-On 2026 – key details

• Date: Saturday 14 November 2026
• Time: 11.30am to 8pm
• Location: Hitchin Market Place and surrounding town centre
• Live entertainment: From 11.30am
• H-Town Business Awards: Approximately 3.30pm
• Father Christmas parade: 5.30pm, starting at Bancroft Recreation Ground
• Christmas lights switch-on: 6pm
• Live music: The New Town Centres perform after the switch-on
• Admission: Free

The event is open to everyone, with residents and visitors invited to enjoy a full day of festive entertainment in Hitchin town centre.