Details revealed for turning on of Christmas lights in Limerick

A SPECTACULAR festive light switch-on ceremony will herald the start of Christmas in Limerick.

Limerick City and County Council has this Wednesday confirmed details of the event, set for Saturday, November 21.

And for the first time in a number of years, there will be a ‘flicking of the switch’ to ignite the lights in the city centre.

A festive Christmas procession kicks off from 7pm in O’Connell Street, produced by theatre group Luxe.

It will depart from Brown Thomas and travel along O’Connell Street.

Illuminated characters, live music, street performances and seasonal entertainment will build-up to a spectacular finale at the top of O'Connell Street.

Here, a specially constructed stage will host live entertainment, festive performances, and special guest appearances before the highlight of the evening, the official switch-on ceremony, when the city's Christmas lights are illuminated to mark the start of the festive season.

The celebrations will conclude with a musical finale and firework display.

Spectators are encouraged to arrive between 6.30pm and 7pm and gather along O'Connell Street, from Brown Thomas to Lower Glentworth Street, to enjoy the best views of the procession as it travels through the city centre.

A free event, no booking is required.

There’s going to be a packed season of festive events and activities across the city and county, with more details to be announced in the coming weeks.

Mayor John Moran said: “For many people, the official switching on of the Christmas lights is the moment Christmas truly begins. Light Up Limerick marks the start of a wonderful festive season and provides an opportunity for people of all ages to come together and celebrate in the heart of our city. From the spectacular procession and switch-on ceremony to the many events and experiences that will follow throughout the Christmas period, we look forward to welcoming residents and visitors alike to Limerick for what promises to be a memorable Christmas."

Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Tom Ruddle added: "Christmas is a special time for communities across Limerick, and Light Up Limerick provides a fantastic opportunity to gather with family, friends and neighbours to mark the start of the festive season. We look forward to welcoming visitors from across the city, county and beyond to enjoy a truly magical evening and to experience the many exciting events and activities planned as part of Christmas in Limerick 2026."

Council director general Dr Pat Daly said: “Christmas is all about bringing people together, and Light Up Limerick does exactly that. It is a wonderful occasion for families, friends, neighbours and visitors to gather in the city and share in the excitement of the season. The switch-on event is just the beginning of what promises to be a vibrant Christmas programme. We are delighted to work with our partners and stakeholders to deliver a festive season that will attract visitors, support local businesses and contribute positively to the economic and social vitality of Limerick."

Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, make a day of it in the city, support local businesses and soak up the festive atmosphere as Christmas in Limerick gets underway.

For people with additional sensory needs, ASD Ireland has teamed up with the local authority to provide an autism friendly area and mobile sensory unit.

A mobile sensory unit along with a covered wheelchair accessible area will be erected at Glentworth Street, across from the White House bar.