Milton Keynes’ Christmas countdown kicks off on Saturday 16th November, with a bigger, and better than ever, Christmas Lights Switch-on event. This much-loved family event, organised every year by MyMK, has become so popular it’s been moved from outside Midsummer Place to the large car park next to The Point.
The excitement begins at 4pm, with performances from the St Bernadette’s School Choir and the Milton Keynes Rock Choir. MK Theatre Pantomime star Max Fulham will take to the stage with his fellow Peter Pan performer, Gordon the Monkey. The event will culminate with a performance by Milton Keynes’ very own Mike Woodhams, a local teacher and Britain’s Got Talent finalist who captured the heart of judges with his remarkable singing impressions.Mike will be joined by Father Christmas for the switching-on of the City Centre’s festive lights, accompanied by a dazzling fireworks display.
The Lights Switch-on marks the beginning of a packed schedule of Christmas activities throughout the City Centre, making it the perfect destination for festive fun, shopping and entertainment:
- Experience the wonder of Santa’s Grotto in centre:mk, from 15th November to 24th December 2024, where children will be enchanted by Norbert, Santa’s newest reindeer, in an immersive adventure that adds a heartwarming touch to the season.
- Book tickets to see Peter Pan at Milton Keynes Theatre. This spectacular pantomime, runs from 6th December 2024 to 5th January 2025, featuring Craig Revel Horwood as Captain Hook and Max Fulham as Smee.
- Admire the beautifully decorated trees at the Christmas Tree Festival at Midsummer Place, launching on 16th November, where local businesses sponsor and decorate trees for the chance to win shoppers’ votes and raise funds for local charities.
- Celebrate with friends and colleagues at Molly O'Reilly's Irish Pub, a brand new fully immersive pop-up experience, running from 29th November to 28th December 2024 in the car park next to The Point. Expect a winter wonderland of live music and festive treats as the spirit of Dublin meets the energy of Oktoberfest!
Look out for extended opening hours at the Milton Keynes City Centre shopping centres, so you can shop for everything from luxury gifts to festive essentials at a time that suits you. With world-class retailers like John Lewis, the flagship Apple Store, Harrods Beauty, and the soon-to-open Flannels, visitors can find the perfect gifts to make their Christmas truly special.
While you're out enjoying the festive spirit and ticking off your gift list, take a well-deserved break at one of the many restaurants and bars in the City Centre. Indulge in a variety of festive menus or grab a Christmas cocktail.
