The Big Christmas Lights Switch On 2026
Once a year, Brewery Square holds its breath. The crowd counts down, the lights flicker on, and Christmas arrives in Dorchester. On Saturday 28 November, from 5pm, it’s happening again, and this year it’s bigger than ever.
Wessex Theatre raises the curtain with all the sparkle of the stage, before our Michael Bublé tribute fills the Square with festive favourites made for singing along. Then comes the moment everyone’s waiting for. Five, four, three, two, one… and Brewery Square bursts into light.
The night’s only just beginning. The Brewery Square House Band takes over with their Christmas Special (they always have a surprise up their sleeve), while walking acts weave through the crowd. Keep your camera ready, because you never know who, or what, you might meet.
In between, wander the festive stalls for tasty treats and gifts you won’t find anywhere else, warm your hands on a hot chocolate or raise a glass at our pop-up bars.
Saturday 28 November 2026, from 5pm in Brewery Square, Dorchester, right next to Dorchester South station
Bring your warmest hat, your best singing voice.
Skate before or after the switch on
Skating in the Square is back. Book a session before the countdown to warm up, or glide under the brand new lights once they’re on. It’s open throughout the Christmas season too, so it’s the perfect excuse to come back again and again. Sessions sell out fast on switch on night, so book ahead.
Stalls, hot chocolate and pop-up bars
Wander the festive stalls for tasty food and gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Wrap your hands round a hot chocolate, or grab something a little stronger from our pop-up bars.
Get your Christmas shopping started
Our shops will be open for the evening, so you can tick a few presents off the list while you’re here. Need ideas? Have a look at our Christmas gift guide before you come.
Make a night of it
Book a table at one of our restaurants and make it a proper evening out. Once the lights are on, head over to Santos + Co for live music from Nina Garcia from 7pm, or keep the party going at XO Dorchester.
Getting here
The easiest way is by train. Dorchester South station is right in the Square, so there’s no parking to worry about on a busy night. Fairfield car park is just across Weymouth Avenue if you’re driving. See our getting here guide for prices and bus routes.
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