towncouncil@diss.gov.uk

The date has been set for this year's Diss Christmas Lights Switch-On:

Saturday 5th December 2026, 4.30pm - 7pm, at Diss Market Place!​

This event is organised by the Events Committee.

​

Get ready for an evening of festive fun:​

 

Live entertainment

We’ve got a fantastic line-up planned for the stage, including My Choir Rocks, Carla Balls, The Corn Hall Panto Cast and Soundhouse.​

And there’s even more to get you singing! Churches Together will lead ‘5 Carols at 5’ around the Christmas Tree, accompanied by Stowmarket Concert Band.​

Keeping the festive atmosphere going between performances will be Park Radio, who will also be our compère for the evening.

​

Eat, drink & be merry!

Come hungry! There’ll be plenty of delicious food and festive treats to enjoy!​

Fancy a little festive tipple? We’ve got a bar!​

And while you’re in town, why not pop into Diss’s fantastic independent shops and get a head start on your Christmas shopping? You can also visit St Mary’s Church and take a wander around their wonderful Christmas Tree Festival.

​

Festive fun for all ages

There’s plenty happening away from the main stage too!

• Free puppet shows at the United Reformed Church 3.45pm & 4.30pm

• Santa’s Grotto inside Diss Museum: open 3.30pm–5.30pm, then 6.15pm–7.15pm (just for any families who are still waiting at 5.30pm). It’s £3 per child, including a gift, and there’s no need to book.

• Look out for Glow Lights & Balloons on sale too!

 

Here comes Santa!

At 5.45pm, keep your eyes peeled as Santa arrives in style on his sleigh, making his way up Mere Street towards the Market Place.

​

He’ll be joined by his elves, Dinsdale, the panto cast, Parky Bear and the Town Mayor – so make sure you find a good spot along the route!

​

Then, at 6pm, it’s time for the BIG LIGHTS-ON COUNTDOWN! ​

Joining us on stage will be Graham Cole from The Bill – who also stars in this year’s panto – along with special guests to help us count down to Christmas in Diss.

​

And the celebrations don’t stop there! Popular high-energy function band, Soundhouse, will keep the party going until 7pm.

​

Bring your family, bring your friends and bring your Christmas spirit!