Nantwich embraced the Christmas cheer in style last night (November 21st) as thousands of residents and visitors gathered in the town centre for the 2025 Christmas Lights Switch-On.
The event, organised by Nantwich Town Council, transformed the historic Town Square into a dazzling winter wonderland, with live entertainment, market stalls, and community cheer.
Actor and local celebrity Ben Miller, who was due to perform the switch-on, missed out after being caught up in the long train delays and cancellations which plagued the country yesterday.
But that did not dampen the spirits for many who enjoyed the Festivities, which kicked off with lively music led by local host Chris Radford from 3pm onwards.
Lauren G wowed the crowds with a high-energy tribute to American pop star Sabrina Carpenter, performing with two dancers and a three-piece band.
A festive market along Churchyardside offered handmade gifts, seasonal treats and artisan stalls, while the traditional market stayed open late to cater for visitors browsing the holiday atmosphere.
Ben sent a statement through which was read on stage, saying: “Merry Christmas Nantwich!
“So sorry I can’t be with you this evening — the spirit was willing but Avanti was weak!
“It seems that my dream of switching on the Nantwich lights will have to remain just that for the time being — a dream.
“I’m very grateful to Nantwich Council for inviting me and I want to wish you all the warmest, merriest of Christmases.
“I look forward to seeing the lights on my next visit, trains permitting. Now I just need to find somewhere to sleep at Euston Station. Bring back Virgin I say! Happy Christmas!”
A line-up of special guests appeared on the stage, including Rebecca and Kay from AFH Wealth Management, singer Lauren G, Mayor of Nantwich Cllr Mary Slinn and her Consort, representatives of the local Police, and Father Christmas himself.
The crowd counted down from ten, before the special line-up illuminated the giant Christmas tree and the town’s sparkling festive lights.
Mayor of Nantwich Cllr Mary Slinn said: “It was such a shame Ben couldn’t make it due to travel disruption but the night was still full of sparkle and joy.
“What a joy to see the town centre lit up and so many smiling faces.
“This event reminds us of the strength and spirit of our community.
“Nantwich provides a beautiful traditional backdrop for Christmas. Our town is looking stunning and we hope it will encourage people to shop local and enjoy all Nantwich has to offer in the run up to Christmas.
“A huge thank you to everyone who has contributed — the performers, our local businesses, particularly our magnificent Christmas Tree Sponsors AFH Wealth Management and all the staff and volunteers involved.”
Running alongside the switch-on this year is the Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary’s Church in partnership with St Luke’s Hospice.
Now celebrating its second annual edition, the festival showcases more than 50 beautifully decorated trees in the church’s historic interior, raising vital funds for the Hospice.
The festive lights in the town centre will remain illuminated throughout the Christmas season, and starting with the town’s Late Night Shopping Event on Thursday (November 27th).
This event will be packed with offers, bespoke gifts and glasses of bubbly, and will be followed by a series of festive markets, including Farmers’ Markets, Artisan Markets and Family Markets.
(Photos by Nantwich Events Photography and Jonathan White, additional words by Jonathan White)
And a big thank you to the dedicated team who install all of the lights for us all to enjoy.