Buckingham Town Council is delighted to announce the success of this year’s Christmas Lights Switch On, which took place on 27th November 2026 in Buckingham Town Centre. Residents and visitors of all ages gathered to mark the start of the festive season, enjoying an evening brimming with entertainment, community spirit, and holiday cheer.
The event featured a wonderful programme of performances, including talented young performers from Stagecoach, festive melodies from the Great Horward Silver Band, and uplifting songs by the Bucks Gospel Fellowship Choir. The evening also included a heartfelt speech from the Mayor of Buckingham and a rousing announcement from the town’s beloved Town Crier, adding to the sense of occasion as the lights were officially switched on.
Adding to the festive magic, the town welcomed a visit from Santa, along with stilt walkers, fairies, and elves, who delighted attendees and brought Market Hill to life with seasonal charm and whimsy.
Visitors enjoyed a bustling festive market, offering hot food, mulled wine, mince pies, and a wide array of festive goods. Special treats were available for everyone, including their four-legged friends, ensuring the whole family could join in the celebrations.
The evening also celebrated the winners of this year’s Buckingham Christmas Card Competition, with prizes presented to the lucky winners and certificates and treats awarded to all entrants. The winning cards are now available to purchase from the Buckingham Tourist Information Centre, allowing the community to share in the festive creativity. All proceeds of sales are donated to the Mayors Charities. May I also take this opportunity to thank BCQ for their sponsorship and producing the cards for our winners.
The Town Council extends its heartfelt thanks to all performers, volunteers, local businesses, and sponsors who helped make the evening so memorable. The warmth and enthusiasm of the community ensured that the Christmas Lights Switch On was a truly magical start to the festive season.
Buckingham now looks forward to a programme of seasonal events over the coming weeks, inviting everyone to continue celebrating in the town centre throughout the holidays.
Cllr. Robin Stuchbury Chair of The town Centre & Events Committee said “It was wonderful to see so many people at this year’s Christmas lights switch-on!
The event featured the prize winners from our Mayor, Cllr Fran Davies’ Christmas card competition — a highlight for all.
Of course, none of this would have been possible without careful planning, funding, and organisation by the Town Centre Events Committee, working alongside the officer team and the Green Spaces team. Together, they delivered a fantastic community event that everyone can enjoy for free with family and friends, while also supporting local traders and boosting the local economy.”
For enquiries, please contact Claire Molyneux at Buckingham Town Council on 01280 816426, communications@buckingham-tc.gov.uk
