Get ready to celebrate Christmas on the waterfront in Plymouth

1st November 2024

Plymouth Waterfront Partnership are planning a fun and community focused festive period this year with the true spirit of Christmas starting on Saturday 16 November with the hugely popular Barbican Christmas Lights Switch On.

Jon Walton, CEO, and Kim Downer, Business Liaison Manager, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership: “We’re so excited by everything we have planned for the waterfront this festive season. Our Christmas Lights Switch On event is a key not-to-be-missed date in the calendar, and this year we’re sprinkling the community spirit even further by supporting the NSPCC Festival of Trees, as well as raising funds for Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah in partnership with Saltram Rotary for the returning charity focused Santa Fun Run.

"We’d encourage everyone to come along and enjoy the atmosphere of Christmas on the waterfront this year and support our independent businesses for something a little different for loved ones or enjoying one of our many local cafes, bars and restaurants over a catch up with family and friends.”

This year’s Barbican Christmas Lights will be switched on by the nominated Community Hero and Muddles (aka Andy Ford) who’s starring in pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, at Theatre Royal Plymouth from December onwards.

Nominations for the Community Hero are still open to nominate a special person who goes above and beyond in the community - closing date to nominate is this Friday, 8 November.

There’s lots going on across the waterfront throughout November and December including:

• Saturday 16 November – Barbican Christmas Lights Switch On, in association with Macpherson Motorcycles. Stage sponsor Cattewater Harbour Commissioners.

• From Saturday 16 November - NSPCC Festival of Trees – this festive favourite will see Christmas trees displayed in three venues across the waterfront at the National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth Pavilions and Ocean Studios. Local businesses are being invited to sponsor the trees to support NSPCC.

• Friday 22 November – as part of a UK wide tour, Plymouth welcomes the Small Business Saturday team to highlight our extensive and eclectic range of small local independent businesses.

• Sunday 8 December – Santa Fun Run - Saltram Rotary in partnership with PWP are bringing hundreds of Santas to our historic cobbles as they take part in and raise money for two fantastic local charities - Jeremiah’s Journey and Shekinah.

Plymouth waterfront really does have the festive period all ‘wrapped up’ this year with something for everyone. For more information on specific events, timings, and updates, please visit the PWP website or follow PWP on social media.