Follow the Star to Antrim and Newtownabbey this Christmas
Communities across Antrim and Newtownabbey are invited to celebrate the start of the festive season as seven free Christmas Light Switch On events take place across the Borough from Thursday 19 to Saturday 28 November 2026.
Under the ‘Follow the Star to Our Christmas Light Switch Ons’ theme, each event will offer festive entertainment, with performances from local schools, alongside free fun rides including The Game Bus for younger visitors. Children will also be entertained by our special on stage Christmas show, ‘Santa’s Search for a Star’.
The celebrations will also feature the winner of ‘Santa’s Star Search’, a special competition inviting primary school children living in the Borough to design their own Christmas star. The lucky winner will receive a £50 voucher and join Santa on stage to switch on the Christmas lights at one of the seven festive events.
Residents and visitors can enjoy the celebrations at:
Crumlin: Thursday 19 November, 6pm–7.30pm, Crumlin Leisure Centre.
Randalstown: Friday 20 November, 6pm–7.30pm, John Street Car Park.
Antrim: Saturday 21 November, 4.30pm–6pm, Railway Street Car Park.
Glengormley: Wednesday 25 November, 6pm–7.30pm, Lilian Bland Community Park.
Monkstown: Thursday 26 November, 6pm–7.30pm, Jordanstown Road/Devenish Drive.
V36: Friday 27 November, 6pm–7.30pm, V36 at The Valley.
Ballyclare: Saturday 28 November, 4.30pm–6pm, The Square Car Park.
Inclusivity is at the heart of this year's celebrations, with dedicated accessible viewing points at every location and sign language interpreters throughout the main stage programmes.
The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan said: “Our Christmas Light Switch Ons are a wonderful opportunity to bring communities together and celebrate the magic of Christmas. With a fantastic programme of entertainment from local schools and community groups, plenty of family fun and our special Santa’s Star Search winner joining Santa on stage, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, with details of road closures and parking arrangements available at antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/christmas-lights.