Full festive line-up revealed for Darwen’s dazzling Christmas lights switch-on 2025!
One of Darwen’s favourite Christmas traditions is back and this year’s lights switch-on is offering more than nine hours of festive fun that’s not to be missed!
Hot on the heels of announcing singing sensation Kelly Llorenna as this year’s headliner – to much Christmas cheer – organisers have now revealed the full line-up for the event, taking place on Saturday, November 15th.
Also new for 2025 is Britain’s Got Talent finalist Steve Royle. The actor, comedian and juggler wowed the BGT judges with his laugh-out-loud routines that are sure to be a hit with the crowds.
He’s part of the packed programme for the main stage along with the big man himself, Father Christmas, and singers from Darwen School of Music’s Begin2Sing, who will perform their brand-new single celebrating the town.
The festivities kick off at 10am, with activities spanning Market Square, Darwen Market, and the main stage. Visitors can enjoy the return of the festive markets, food stalls, Ice Glitz Christmas characters, and fairground rides.
The day will begin with a performance from Darwen Brass Band, followed by The Preston Handbell Ensemble and the ever-popular Christmas storytelling sessions – which are always a sell-out.
From 2pm, Kiki Deville will lead a packed programme on the main stage, featuring a mix of big-name acts and captivating community performances, including talented pupils from Zoe Taylor Dance Academy, Lancashire Dance Academy, and Darwen School of Music.
Just before the countdown to the big switch-on, Kelly Llorenna – the powerhouse voice behind dance anthems Heart of Gold and True Love Never Dies – will take to the stage, with DJ Sam Flannagan keeping the Christmas party going once the lights are on.
Every year, thousands of people descend on Darwen Market Square for the much-loved event, which takes months of planning.
Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and Executive Member for Growth and Development, said: “We know just how much residents love the Christmas lights switch-on, with record crowds over the past few years.
“A huge amount of work goes into organising this incredibly popular event, and it’s fantastic to once again announce such a packed programme.
“It offers nine hours filled with festive favourites – from the markets and Father Christmas to live performances and our brilliant headliner, Kelly Llorenna.
“There really is something for everyone, whether it’s Darwen Brass Band or DJ Sam Flanagan getting the Christmas party started.
“This is a great event that showcases Darwen town centre and the incredible community spirit here – a perfect way to start the countdown to Christmas.”
The event is once again being organised in partnership with Crafty Vintage.
Owner, Laura Johnson, added: “Darwen Christmas lights switch-on is one of the town’s most anticipated events – something people mark in their calendars year after year, and the drone image of last year’s crowds really captured the incredible atmosphere.
“We pour our hearts into planning this celebration, and this year we’re proud to bring more than nine hours of festive entertainment for all ages.
“We’re especially thrilled to welcome Kelly Llorenna as our headliner, alongside a fantastic line-up of local talent.
“The countdown to the lights switch-on is now well and truly on!”
The event is jointly funded by both Blackburn with Darwen Council and Darwen Town Council.
Councillor Jonathan Hamer, Leader of Darwen Town Council, said: “The Darwen Christmas lights switch-on is always one of the highlights of the festive calendar, drawing huge crowds from Darwen and beyond.
“With so much planned, it promises to be another brilliant celebration for the whole community.
“We’re thrilled to have Kelly Llorenna leading the countdown to the big switch-on and can’t wait to see Market Square filled with festive cheer once again.”
There’ll be lots of useful updates on the Darwen Town Centre Facebook page plus the Shop Darwen Instagram – be sure to follow them both now.
