Waterside’s Christmas Light Switch-On 2023

The Waterside Shopping Centre is set to shine brighter than ever as the annual Christmas lights switch-on event approaches. Visitors from across the region are gearing up for a magical evening of festivities, performances, and the much-anticipated illumination of the Christmas lights. 

Alongside the big light switch-on, a wide range of attractions and entertainment will be taking place inside the Waterside Shopping Centre on the upper level, so you can enjoy the festivities in the
warmth and dry, whatever the weather.

Events, activities, games and performances will be taking place throughout the evening including:

• Lincoln City players' interviews and autograph signings from:
  • Danny Mandroiu
  • Ethan Erhahon
  • Ali Smith
  • Jaden Brown
  • Ethan Hamilton
  • Alex Mitchell
• Panto stars from the Drill Hall (Jamie Marcus productions) performing Peter Pan.
• Free glitter tattoos and face painting by Lollipops from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
• Princess stilt walkers from Guiding Sparks.
• Balloon modelling by Mr Twists.
• Santa and his elves will be on site for interviews at this year’s Grotto.
• Performances by Lincolnshire Hospitals Band and Stagecoach.
• Stands from organisations like Lincoln Arts Centre, Lincoln City Foundation, St Barnabas, and more.
• A special mini carol concert by Lincoln Arts Centre to promote their Christmas show, "A Christmas Carol."

The Christmas Lights Switch On has become a cherished tradition, uniting the community and officially heralding the start of the festive season. This year's event promises an array of attractions and entertainment inside the Waterside Shopping Centre, as well as the first late-night shopping date, where the centre will be open until 8:00PM, making it an unmissable occasion for families and friends, and the perfect time to get some Christmas shopping done.

The evening’s entertainment will commence at 5:30PM with the centre lights being turned on at 7:15 PM. This all takes place on the same night as the Lincoln City Centre Light Switch-On. "We're excited to bring the Lincoln Christmas Lights Switch On back to the heart of the city," said Mary-Jane Booth, Centre Manager at the Waterside Shopping Centre. "It's a time to come together, share the Christmas spirit, and make memories with family and friends."

In addition to the Christmas Lights Switch On, there will be a whole host of festive events throughout the Christmas Season, including Lincoln City Centre’s only Santa’s Grotto which opens on the 25th November all the way until Christmas Eve.

To find out more and book tickets to Santa’s Grotto, click here.