Gorey Looks Forward to Festive Cheer with ‘The Big Switch On’ 2025

The excitement is building in Gorey as preparations are underway for The Big Switch On, one of the most anticipated nights of the year, when Santa arrives to officially light up the town and mark the beginning of the festive season. The Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District, in collaboration with the Gorey Christmas Lights Committee, is inviting families, friends, and visitors of all generations to gather on Gorey Main Street for an evening of community celebration, festive fun, and Christmas cheer. District Manager Anita McLoughlin said, “The Big Switch On is the ideal start to the festive season. Gorey is such a popular town for Christmas shopping with visitors from near and far, and following feedback from local retailers, Wexford County Council, along with the Christmas Lights Committee, decided to bring the event forward this year so that everyone can enjoy the festive build-up for longer.  Of course, we are delighted that Santa has once again agreed to attend this special event, and we look forward to seeing the town come together and celebrate as a community.” The celebrations will feature street entertainment from 6.30 pm, followed by music and stage entertainment from 7.00 pm, leading up to the magical moment when Santa and his sleigh arrive to switch on Gorey’s dazzling Christmas lights. This year’s Big Switch On also marks the start of the Festive Buildings Competition in Gorey, sponsored by the municipal district, celebrating the businesses that help create the town’s magical Christmas atmosphere. Local businesses that have added to the festive feel of the town are invited to enter their festive displays into the competition for a chance to win a €500 prize for the best-decorated premises. Businesses can enter as often as they wish as they update their displays throughout the season by emailing a photo to  info@lovegorey.ie (mailto:info@lovegorey.ie)  or by submitting an entry through the Love Gorey social media channels by 6.00 pm on Wednesday, 17 th  December. The winner will be announced on Friday, 19 th  December. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to join in the fun on Saturday, 22 nd  November, wrap up warm, and enjoy what promises to be a memorable and heart-warming evening making it the perfect way to kick start Christmas in Gorey. To facilitate the stage and evening festivities, Main Street will be closed from 4.30 pm to 9.00 pm on the day of the event.