Wilmslow, just a short trip from Manchester, is starting its Christmas season on Saturday 21st November, when the town centre fills with a market, live music, fairground rides and a countdown to the lights switch-on at around 5pm. Wilmslow Town Council and Wilmslow’s Way Better are organising the programme, which includes one brand-new event and the return of the town’s light trail.
Saturday 21 November: market, music and the switch-on
The artisan Christmas market opens at 10am. Live entertainment starts on the stage in Bank Square at about midday, with singers, choirs and other performers playing through the afternoon.
Families can find children’s activities, fairground rides and festive walkabout characters, including the polar bear. The lights go on at approximately 5pm to 5.15pm.
Wilmslow’s Way Brighter Light Trail
The trail launches at the switch-on and runs until 4 January 2027, with light installations dotted around the town centre. Two spots are new this year: one near Hästens and one at Little Lindow, opposite Zumuku. The rest are in familiar places.
Costa Coffee, The Mucky Pup, The Wine Cellar, Piccolino and Langricks are supporting the trail. A digital map is in development to help visitors find each installation. Organisers are also planning an interactive festive selfie competition, with details still to come.
Sunday 6 December: the first Christmas on Grove Street
Grove Street hosts its first Christmas event from 10am to 4pm. Expect a Christmas market, live music, a choir and seasonal street entertainment. Visitors can look out for the Grinch, step inside a festive snow globe and pick up Christmas food and drink while browsing the independent shops.
Lisa Russett, Wilmslow BID manager and spokesperson for Wilmslow’s Way Better, said the aim is to bring the community together and encourage people to spend time in town and support its independent businesses.
Updates on the programme will appear on the Wilmslow’s Way Better website, and the organisation is on social media at @wilmslowswaybetter.
How to get to Wilmslow
Wilmslow is just a 37-minute drive from Manchester city centre and only a 18-minute train ride from Manchester Piccadilly.
