The Christmas countdown begins!
12 November 2026
Diss Christmas Lights Switch-On:
Saturday 5th December 2026, 4.30pm - 7pm, at Diss Market Place!
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? Many are opening late especially for the event, with some offering festive refreshments and activities!
Festive fun for all ages
There’s plenty happening away from the main stage too!
Visit St Mary’s Church and take a wander around their wonderful Christmas Tree Festival.
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, guaranteed to get you singing along and dancing!
Bring your family, bring your friends and bring your Christmas spirit!
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