Pictures: Bideford hosts a festive spectacular for Christmas lights switch on

There were plenty of festive vibes and a very welcome special guest as the community of Bideford turned out for the annual Christmas lights switch on yesterday (Sunday, December 7).

From midday until into the evening, Bideford Quay was bustling with entertainment, live music and stalls, with the big switch on at 5pm.

The festivities were organised by South West Event Management Solutions CIC in partnership with Bideford Town Council, which also funds the event each year.

Above: A bustling Bideford Quay for the Christmas lights switch on 2025. Credit: Lydia Corrick

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This year’s event was in support of and to raise awareness for ELF (Exeter Leukaemia Fund) and turning on the lights was a very special guest, North Devon’s Ollie Earls, aged five, whose family have been supported by the charity.

Ollie was diagnosed with leukaemia on New Year’s Eve 2022 and a tough few years followed for the family, but he completed his treatment in February. ELF supported Ollie’s family throughout the journey, including replacing their oven just before Christmas 2023.

Family fun was at the heart of Bideford’s Christmas switch on, with fairground rides, festive stalls, a dazzling display of fireworks and even an exciting Elf Fun Run which took place in the afternoon for the charity.

Above: Bideford Youth Pipe Band play as the town gears up for its Christmas lights switch on. Credit: Graham Hobbs

Live entertainment on the main stage came from Stagecoach Performing Arts, Sarah Ann Westcott Dance School, Westcroft School Choir, Louisa Hockin School of Performing Arts, Bideford Town Band, St Mary’s School Choir and Back in the Room played live for the finale.

Due to the weather, the second stage was moved inside to The Palladium Club, with music from local artists including Rhia, Dogleg and Jacob Terry.

In the Pannier Market there were free circus workshops, stalls, stilt walkers and of course Santa himself, while Bideford Station had Santa special train rides and a grotto.

Above: There was plenty of festive fun in the Pannier Market with Santa and friends as part of Bideford’s Christmas lights celebrations. Credit: Graham Hobbs

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**** See more pictures in the gallery above courtesy of Graham Hobbs ****