This year’s Oxford’s Christmas Light Festival takes place over the weekend of 13 to 15 November with pop-up events, workshops, demonstrations, participation, installations and parades.
In locations around the city, there will be opportunities to welcome the coming festive season in style. With so many ways to participate and enjoy light-themed activities and entertainments – crafts, parades, puppetry, performances, storytelling, music, markets, gifts and food – be prepared to be spoilt for choice.
Most of the events and activities are free, and spread over the city – look out for something happening near you during the weekend, from Cutteslowe to Blackbird Leys, in the city centre and even online.
Many cultural and community organisations are involved in the 2026 festival weekend but there’s still time to for your organisation to register. To get involved just contact events@oxford.gov.uk with your details to be included in the programme of events. The deadline for applications is Friday 16 October.
Some of the city’s major cultural organisations are already involved including Ark-T, Film Oxford, IF Oxford Science & Ideas Festival, Museum of Oxford, Pegasus Theatre, The North Wall Arts Centre and others.
Comment
"Each year Oxford’s Christmas Light Festival brings communities, cultures and businesses together to create a wonderful weekend festival that brightens up Oxford through a magical light spectacle.
"If you would like to get involved and host an event or activity, get in touch with our events team to register your interest. It doesn’t matter where in the city you are based, you can take part and help to light up your community "
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, and Cabinet Member for Partnership Working, Inclusive Economic Growth and Culture
The full programme will be published from October 2026 on the Christmas Lights Festival website.
