Falmouth lights up for Christmas on Thursday 26 November 2026, when the town centre lights are switched on at the annual community event on The Moor. Performances from local bands and school choirs lead into the countdown, then the town lights come on in a single moment across Market Street, Church Street, and Arwenack Street. The event is free to attend and marks the start of Falmouth’s festive season.
The Moor fills from around 5pm. The lights come on at about 6.30pm, followed by music and stalls running until around 8pm. Dressing warm is essential - the evening sits on the harbour edge and the wind off Falmouth Bay in late November rarely feels mild.
What else happens over Christmas in Falmouth
The Lights Switch-On is the first of several Falmouth festive events. The Community Christmas Tree Festival runs through December at the Princess Pavilion, with trees decorated by local schools, charities, and community groups. Falmouth’s Festive Weekend, typically held in the first half of December, adds an outdoor ice rink on The Moor, a curling lane, a giant snow globe, and a festive land train running visitors around the town centre. Santa’s Grotto opens for weekend sessions through December. Exact dates for the 2026 Festive Weekend are confirmed closer to the date by Falmouth Town Council.
Getting there and parking
Falmouth is on the A39, around 12 miles south of Truro and 15 miles from the A30. The event centres on The Moor, a few minutes’ walk from Falmouth Town station on the Maritime Line from Truro. The Dell, Quarry, and Church Street car parks all sit within 5 minutes of The Moor. Car parks fill from around 4.30pm on switch-on evening, so arriving earlier or taking the train into Falmouth Town is the easier option.
Where to stay
Falmouth has a wide range of accommodation within walking distance of the town centre. 1 Florence Place sleeps 6 and sits in the heart of the town. 16 Arwenack Street sleeps 8 in a larger property right on the event route. 20 Bishops Way is a quieter option sleeping 6 within a 10-minute walk of The Moor. Browse all places to stay in Falmouth for more options.
Before you go
- Arrive by 5.30pm for a good view of the main stage on The Moor
- The event runs rain or shine - bring waterproofs and a hat
- Food stalls, shops, and pubs stay open late for the switch-on evening
- Public toilets are available at The Moor car park and at the Prince of Wales Pier
Note: Falmouth Christmas Lights Switch-On typically takes place on the last Thursday of November each year. Exact dates are published by Falmouth Town Council and visitfalmouth.com from mid-October.
