Cowes To Sparkle With Festive Fun At Christmas Celebration Day

The heart of Cowes will be bursting with festive spirit later this month as the town hosts its much-anticipated Christmas Celebration Day on Saturday, 22nd November.

Organised by Cowes Town Council, the free community event promises a magical day of music, markets, entertainment and Christmas cheer — all leading up to the Christmas lights switch-on at 5pm.

Live music and entertainment will fill the streets from midday, with performances from local musicians, walkabout acts, and a special family Lantern Glow Walk through the town.

Two Christmas Markets will showcase local crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats:

• Pontoon View (11am–4.30pm): Enjoy a log fire with toasted marshmallows, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, mince pies, live music, and a photo opportunity with Father Christmas and his elf.

• Bar 46 (5pm–9pm): A festive evening market featuring artisan stalls, mulled wine, mince pies and a Christmas barbecue.

Local shops from Bath Road to Medina Road will join the celebrations with one-day-only promotions, giveaways and festive treats — perfect for some early Christmas shopping.

Cowes Library will also host a Christmas Fair from 10am–2pm, with homemade produce, a tombola, a “guess the weight of the cake” competition and children’s craft activities from 10am–12 noon.

Families joining the Lantern Glow Walk should head to The Parade at 4.15pm to meet The Grinch, before setting off at 4.30pm.

The walk will finish at the bottom of Shooters Hill just in time for the Mayor’s Christmas lights switch-on, accompanied by the Vectis Corps of Drums Marching Band and free mince pies.

To make things easier, free parking will be available from 12 noon to 6pm at Brunswick Road, Cross Street, and The Parade car parks.

Cowes Mayor Cllr Stuart Ellis said:

“We’re delighted to extend this year’s Christmas lights event into a full day of free entertainment and festive fun.

"There’s something for everyone — from food and shopping offers to live music and family activities.

"It’s a wonderful way to support local businesses and kick off the holiday season in true Cowes style.”

A window spotting competition will also run from Friday, 15th November, with entry forms available from Chiverton’s, Hursts and Rosalie’s.

Completed forms must be returned by Monday, 15th December for a chance to win special prizes.

Visitors from the mainland can take advantage of a special Red Jet day return fare from Southampton to West Cowes — £13.50 per adult and £6.70 per child.

For full event details, visit the Cowes Town Council Events Facebook Page here.