St Ives switches on its Christmas lights on Saturday 14 November 2026. The town’s lights run from Porthmeor to Porthminster, along Fore Street, the Wharf, and the harbour front, with the main event centred on the harbour. Live music, choirs, and a lantern procession from the Guildhall lead into the countdown. The lights come on at dusk, usually around 5.30pm.
St Ives fills quickly on the evening. Parking is limited year-round but particularly on switch-on night - the park-and-ride from Trenwith car park is the best option, running shuttle buses into the town centre. The St Erth to St Ives branch line runs regular services that evening, dropping visitors at St Ives station within a 5-minute walk of the harbour.
What to expect
The lights remain on through to early January, wrapping most of the town centre and the harbour edge. The event marks the start of St Ives’ festive calendar, which continues with late-night shopping Thursdays in December, carol services at St Ia’s Church, and the annual Boxing Day swim at Porthmeor. Many galleries and shops stay open later than usual through December.
Restaurants and pubs fill from around 4pm. Booking a table in advance is worth it for the switch-on evening - Porthminster Beach Cafe, Porthgwidden Beach Cafe, and the Sloop Inn on the harbour all take reservations.
Getting there
St Ives is on the A3074, reached via the A30 to Penzance then the turning at Hayle or Lelant. The branch line from St Erth (connecting from the mainline at St Erth Junction) is the most scenic way to arrive - the train runs along Carbis Bay and into St Ives station, with views across the bay the whole way. Park-and-ride at Trenwith operates daily in summer and on event days through winter.
Where to stay
St Ives has accommodation to suit every budget within walking distance of the harbour. 1 Copper Kettle Apartment sleeps 2 in the centre of the old town. 1 Seabirds House sleeps 4 with sea views. 10 Porthmeor Square Apartment sleeps 4 above Porthmeor Beach. Browse all places to stay in St Ives for more options.
Before you go
- Arrive by 4.30pm for a spot near the harbour
- Dress warm - the wind off St Ives Bay in November is cutting
- Shops and galleries stay open late for the switch-on
- The lights stay on nightly from 14 November to early January
Note: St Ives Christmas Lights Switch-On is organised by St Ives Town Council and traditionally takes place on the second Saturday of November. Dates are confirmed each autumn at stivestowncouncil.gov.uk.
