Wakefield Christmas Lights 2026: All you need to know from the parade to who's switching them on

The festival begins with the annual festive Light Switch-On taking place at 5.30pm tomorrow (Friday, November 13) in the Cathedral Precinct.

This year the lights will be switched on by Wakefield Trinity stars Daryl Powell, Olly Pratt, Tom Johnstone, Jack Sinfield and Cam Smith plus mascot Daddy Cool.

Wakefield Exchange (WX) is the official Light Up Event Hub where visitors can pick up their light trail maps, listen to choir performances and enjoy some delicious street food.

There will also be a projection of 'Building Bridges', which celebrates 70 years of friendship and partnership between Wakefield and its twin city Herne in Germany.

Following the light trail map, visitors can experience interactive artworks and striking projections across the city centre, including Limbic Cinema’s ‘Rewild’, a magical, illuminated animation on County Hall that invites audiences to become part of the artwork.

On Saturday, November 14 the city will be brought to life through the magical Light Up parade.

Starting at 5.30pm the parade is best seen from Wood Street. It will celebrate the return of wildlife to Wakefield’s rivers, meadows, moors and gardens.

With magical moments around every corner, Light Up Wakefield promises an unforgettable weekend that will see the city shine brighter than ever before.

Coun Lukasz Borcz, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport, said: “We’re excited that Light Up Wakefield is back this weekend to kick off our festive season with a brilliant light trail and magical parade.

“There’s lots going on and something for everyone to enjoy. And why not take the opportunity to start your Christmas shopping early while you’re in the city centre and support our local businesses.”

Accessible Parking

The closest and most convenient accessible parking to WX Wakefield Exchange is Trinity Walk Shopping Centre or The Ridings Shopping Centre.

Trinity Walk (WF1 1QQ): 1,000 spaces with disabled parking located on the ground floor outside Sainsburys.

The Ridings Shopping Centre (WF1 1DS): They have in total over 1,000 spaces, including 43 blue badge holder spaces and 22 family parking bays all with direct access into the centre.

Car Parking

There are numerous off-street and on-street car parking spaces in Wakefield City Centre.

Find a full list with details here.

There is also parking available at Trinity Walk and The Riding Shopping Centre.

Please note WX Wakefield Exchange does not have a car park.

Sensory Bus

A fully self-contained rainforest-themed mobile sensory bus with a calm space that lets overwhelmed guests reset.

The bus is fully staffed with gentle greens, soft lights and flowing movement to help bodies settle and minds breathe. Suitable for teens and adults as well as children. Sensory swing tested to 22 stone.

Location: Cathedral Precinct near Waterstones

Date: Friday, November 13, 5pm-9pm (not available on Saturday).