Gainsborough's Christmas Lights Festival is set to return to Market Place on Friday 20 November 2026, bringing festive fun, family entertainment and Christmas cheer to the town centre.
Running from 3pm to 8pm, the free event will once again fill the heart of Gainsborough with seasonal shopping, live entertainment, family activities and plenty of festive magic.
The event is organised and funded by West Lindsey District Council, with support from Gainsborough Town Council. This year's festival is kindly sponsored by Hunters, STEP and Gainsborough Building Services.
Visitors can enjoy traditional fairground rides including the swing boats, helter skelter and a high striker, with all rides costing just 50p.
There will also be a range of food, drink and gift stalls, alongside a packed programme of entertainment. Local bands and school groups will take to the stage throughout the afternoon and evening, while the cast of Beauty and the Beast, this year's pantomime at Trinity Arts Centre, will bring a touch of theatrical magic to the celebrations.
Festive street entertainment will be popping up throughout the event, including elves, angels and the spectacular Snow Lion. Families can also step inside a giant walk-in snow globe for a festive photo.
Cara Thornhill, Head of Leisure and Cultural Services at West Lindsey District Council, said: "We're excited to bring the Christmas Lights Festival back to Gainsborough this November.
"For me, it's one of the highlights of the year and always marks the start of the festive season. Seeing the town come together, enjoying the entertainment, festive stalls and family activities, really gets me into the Christmas spirit. We're looking forward to another memorable event and would encourage everyone to save the date."
Cllr Stephen Bunney, Chair of West Lindsey District Council’s Thriving People committee, said: "The Christmas Lights Festival is always a fantastic way to kick off the festive season, and we're excited to bring it back once again this year.
"There's something for everyone to enjoy, from live music and entertainment to festive food and Christmas shopping. We're especially pleased to be keeping fairground rides at just 50p, helping to make the event affordable for families and giving even more people the chance to experience some Christmas magic.
