Bourne Hall to Spark Christmas Magic with Annual Lights Switch-On Celebration

Date: 

Friday, 16 October, 2026

Bourne Hall is inviting residents and visitors to enjoy a festive day packed with entertainment, family activities, shopping and seasonal cheer as the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On returns on Saturday 28 November.

The celebrations begin at 10am with the opening of Santa's Grotto, where families can meet Santa and receive a small treat for just £3 per child (no prebooking required on Saturday 28 November). The grotto will remain open until 5.30pm, providing the perfect opportunity for children to kick-start the festive season.

Festivities continue from 3pm, when the Christmas Lights Switch-On event gets underway. Visitors can browse the popular Local Makers Market, featuring handmade gifts, crafts and festive products from talented local creators. It's the ideal chance to shop locally and find unique Christmas presents.

There will also be plenty of family-friendly entertainment throughout the afternoon, including fairground attractions such as teacup rides, trampolines and more.

The main stage will host a lively programme of performances organised by I Play Music Collective, showcasing local singers, musicians and collective members. Audiences can enjoy festive favourites and seasonal entertainment throughout the afternoon.

As excitement builds towards the big countdown, the cast of this year's pantomime, Snow White, will make a special appearance on stage, bringing fun, laughter and festive spirit to the event.

At 6pm, the Mayor of Epsom & Ewell will officially switch on Bourne Hall's Christmas lights following a short address to the crowd. The spectacular display will mark the start of the festive season in Ewell and offer a magical moment for families and friends to enjoy together.

The festive fun continues throughout December. During the Christmas period, visitors can enjoy a range of activities at Santa's Grotto. Families are welcome to visit on weekdays free of charge, to write letters to Santa or prebook Saturday visits with Santa up until 19 December.

Visitors can also make the most of everything Bourne Hall has to offer, including its museum, library, café and surrounding grounds, making it an ideal festive day out for all ages.

Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community & Wellbeing Committee said,

"The Christmas Lights Switch-On at Bourne Hall is one of the highlights of our community calendar. It is wonderful to see residents, families, local groups and businesses coming together to celebrate the start of the festive season. I look forward to welcoming everyone and sharing this special occasion."