Christmas Light Switch-ons to spark festive season to life in West Lancashire

Skelmersdale and Ormskirk are busy getting fully charged ahead of their free annual Christmas Lights Switch-On events this November. 

Lighting up the festive season first will be Skelmersdale on Sunday 15 November, followed by Ormskirk on Sunday 22 November. 

Crowds are expected to flock to Southway in Skelmersdale to enjoy live entertainment from a range of artists and acts on the first weekend of celebrations ahead of similar festivities taking over Ormskirk town centre the following Sunday. 

Street performers, charity stalls, fairground rides and artisan market stalls will also be on hand to sprinkle some Christmas magic for all ages to enjoy. 

The winner of the Council’s 2026 Christmas card design competition will have the honour of switching on the lights at the events, officially declaring the festive season open in West Lancashire. They will also be joined by the Mayor of West Lancashire, Councillor Janet Ingman. 

Councillor Neil Furey, Chair of the Communities and Environment Committee, said: “The Christmas lights switch-on events in Ormskirk and Skelmersdale are two of the highlights of the Borough’s event calendar. 

“We are delighted to bring a duo of spectacular festive showcases toeveryone in West Lancashire. 

“It is a time to come together and celebrate while also providing a vital boost to our local and independent businesses.” 

Timings for both events: 

Start: Skelmersdale 12pm, Ormskirk 11am 

Switch-on: 5pm 

Events close: 5.15pm