Gainsborough’s much-loved Christmas Lights Festival is set to return to Market Place on Friday 20 November 2026, bringing an afternoon and evening of festive fun to the town centre. The free event will run from 3pm to 8pm, offering entertainment, shopping and seasonal attractions for visitors of all ages.
Organised and funded by West Lindsey District Council, with support from Gainsborough Town Council, the annual festival has become a popular fixture in the town’s calendar, marking the start of the Christmas season. This year’s event is sponsored by Hunters, STEP and Gainsborough Building Services.
Visitors can look forward to a range of traditional fairground attractions, including swing boats, a helter skelter and a high striker, with rides priced at just 50p each.
The Market Place will also be filled with festive food, drink and gift stalls, providing the perfect opportunity to pick up Christmas presents and enjoy seasonal treats. A packed entertainment programme will see local bands and school groups perform throughout the afternoon and evening.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the cast of Beauty and the Beast, this year’s pantomime at Trinity Arts Centre, will make a special appearance. Roaming street entertainment, including elves, angels and the spectacular Snow Lion, will bring extra Christmas magic to the event, while families will have the chance to capture festive memories inside a giant walk-in snow globe.
The Christmas Lights Festival continues to be one of the biggest community events of the year in Gainsborough, bringing together residents, businesses and visitors to celebrate the start of the festive season.
For more information and updates on Christmas events in the town, follow Discover Gainsborough on Facebook and Instagram.
Come Discover Gainsborough
Spend the day out in this historic market town and explore the historic town centre with its independent shops just a short walk from Marshall’s Yard. Gainsborough is also home to the magnificent Gainsborough Old Hall as well as many other nearby attractions and things to do.
For more information about visiting Gainsborough, including places to visit and things to do, head over to our visit page. For regular updates follow Discover Gainsborough on Facebook and Instagram.