Tamworth's Christmas lights switch on postponed after alert

Tamworth's highly anticipated Christmas lights switch-on event has been postponed until the first week of December due to forecasted high winds. Storm Bert is bringing forecast wind gusts of up to 50mph, making it "unsafe for the event stage and market stalls".

This weekend's planned event will now take place on Saturday, December 7. Councillor Lewis Smith, portfolio holder for people services, leisure and engagement at Tamworth Borough Council, said: “Our priority is keeping people safe. Unfortunately, Storm Bert is set to bring us high wind gusts meaning the stage and markets will not be safe for performers, traders, visitors and our staff. So, we have taken the difficult decision to postpone the event until Saturday, December 7.

“Tamworth's Christmas lights event is always such a wonderful way to start the festive season, and we hope locals will still come and join the festivities in two weeks’ time at the Holloway end of the Castle Grounds with the fun beginning early afternoon with food, drink festive stalls and performances.”

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There is a festive gifts market, performances from local acts and the lights being switched on at 5pm by the Mayor of Tamworth and Santa's elves. There will be free parking in Tamworth town centre at all council run car parks.

The event takes place at the Holloway end of the Castle Grounds with the fun beginning at early afternoon with food, drink and festive stalls.

Grab some festive gifts at Berts and Gerts Christmas market set up on Holloway Road near the Castle Grounds. Food stalls will be available, selling burgers, hotdogs, Indian delights, donuts, pancakes, hot and cold drinks, and much more.

The change of date means there will be some changes to the performance schedule, and the full timetable will be announced on our social media platforms.