Christmas 2025: Here is everything you need to know about Dundee’s Christmas Lights switch on

The event takes place next Sunday (Picture: Craig Doogan)

Dundee’s festive season is set to begin with a bang as the city centre transforms into a winter wonderland for the Christmas Light Switch-On on Sunday 16 November.

Running from 10am to 7pm, the event promises a full day of festive fun, food, and entertainment for the whole family.

From the Santa Dash 4K Fun Run to street performers, live music, artisan markets, and a Christmas craft tent, the city will be bursting with seasonal cheer.

The celebration builds throughout the day before culminating in the big switch-on of the Christmas tree lights at 6pm, complete with snow machines, sparkler cannons, and a special appearance from Santa himself.

The Highlights

The streets will be filled with festive magic, including appearances from some of Dundee’s favourite Christmas characters and performers.

Watch out for The Grinch, causing holiday chaos wherever he goes, and don’t miss the Aerial Arch Acrobatics, where a talented performer will twist and soar beneath a glowing 12-metre arch.

Adding to the wonder, Living Lamp Posts will stroll through the streets spreading light and laughter, while the Santa Dash 4K Fun Run invites families and friends to dash through Dundee in support of Cash for Kids.

Visitors can also explore the Festive Market, presented in partnership with The Yard Market, where local makers and food vendors will bring a sparkle of Dundee creativity.

Meanwhile, Scrapantics and Celebrate Dundee’s Play Forum will host the Christmas Craft Tent, offering drop-in crafting sessions and activities for all ages.

Full Schedule

Morning – City Centre

10.00am – Santa Dash Warm-Up with Active Dundee

10.30am – Santa Dash 4K Fun Run

All Day – City Square

10.00am – 7.00pm

Christmas Market (The Yard Market)

Christmas Craft Tent (Scrapantics)

Fun Fair Rides

Ice Sculpture Trail

Street Food

Afternoon – High Street & City Square

12.00pm – Festive Playlist with Tay FM & Street Performers

3.30pm – Aerial Arch Performance

4.00pm – Live Music & Entertainment hosted by Tay FM’s Gregor & Lynsey

4.00pm – The McAndrews Sisters

4.30pm – Aerial Arch Performance

4.45pm – Downfield Musical Society – Jack and the Beanstalk

5.00pm – Thomson-Leng Musical Society – Snow White

5.15pm – Dundee Rep Theatre – Jack and the Beanstalk

5.40pm – Rock the Halls

6.00pm – Christmas Tree Lights Switch-On & Aerial Arch Performance

6.15pm – Live Music – Strawberry Bank

7.00pm – Event Close

Plan Your Visit

Wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate, and make the most of the festive fun in Dundee’s city centre. Whether you’re cheering on the Santa Dash runners, browsing the market, or counting down to the big moment, this year’s Christmas Light Switch-On promises to be one of Dundee’s most magical celebrations yet