Glasgow’s 2023 Christmas lights switch-on makes return to George Square

Glasgow’s Christmas lights switch-on display is set to return to mark the beginning of the city’s 2023 festive celebrations.

The free event will return to George Square on Sunday, November 19 from 4.30pm to 7pm.

Glasgow Loves Christmas, who are organising the event, promised that the switch-on this year, hosted by Clyde 1 presenters George Bowie and Cassi Gillespie, will be packed full of festive fun.

Visitors can expect live music, sing-alongs, a choir, and appearances by some of the cast of Pavilion Theatre pantomime Treasure Island.

The Christmas light switch-on kicks off the countdown to December 25 in Glasgow, with a series of traditional festivities to follow.

Among the family favourites are the Blessing of the Crib in George Square, the Style Mile Christmas Carnival and Baby’s First Christmas.

A ticket ballot for the 2023 Christmas lights switch-on will open on the Glasgow Life website from Wednesday October 18 until Sunday October 22.

All of the details, including how to enter, will be published on the Glasgow Loves Christmas Facebook, Instagram and X social media channels.

Glasgow’s Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren, said: “The switching on of Glasgow’s Christmas lights is always a special occasion. It’s one of the highlights of the year seeing families and friends gather to celebrate the start of the festive season in the heart of our city.”

Other Christmas events over the festive season in the city include The Simply Christmas show at the SEC and House for an Art Lover’s Christmas Fayre which present perfect opportunities to pick up handmade gifts, while shows like The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert at the SEC Armadillo, Pavilion Theatre panto Treasure Island and Scottish Ballet’s run of Cinders! at the Theatre Royal also promise fantastic entertainment.

The much-loved Glasgow Santa Dash will also take place on Sunday December 10, giving participants a chance to raise funds for the Beatson Cancer Charity and the Lord Provost’s Charity Fund.