Ramsgate is set to sparkle this festive season, with Ramsgate Town Council supporting a host of events to bring joy, light, and plenty of Christmas cheer to the town. Inspired by Ramsgate Illuminations where our boatowners light up their boats, our light installations have grown over the past ten years, and Ramsgate Light Festival will shine brighter than ever in 2025!
The celebrations begin on Sunday, November 30, with the Christmas Lights Switch-On, running from 11am–5pm in the town centre. Expect familiar faces (those cheeky elves will be back!) alongside fresh new performers. This year the Christmas lights will extend further than ever, brightening up York Street and part of Queen Street. Santa’s Grotto will be based at Silvers Bar, Harbour Street, and the big switch-on will take place around 4:30pm.
When the lights go on, follow the beats of the band, Samba Ya Wantsum up the High Street to St George’s Church, where the ‘Let There Be Light’ event will transform the church with colourful illuminations, followed by warming hot chocolate and mince pies.
The harbour will take centre-stage with even more dazzling lights! Alongside the much-loved Ramsgate Illuminations, where last year 76 boat owners lit up their vessels in aid of Ramsgate RNLI, the Town Council has installed colourful festoon lights along the Military Road arches and illuminated the Obelisk, creating a nightly spectacle across the waterfront.
Throughout December, the ever-popular Advent Doors return. Each evening, a different resident or business will unveil their festive display, often with a tipple or treat, all while raising funds for local causes.
On Thursday, December 11, the Light Up Ramsgate art trail will launch with its Weekend of Wonder, showcasing community and artists’ light installations from the harbour through to St George’s Church.
Come down and enjoy Late Night Shopping, a pop-up parade and a Christmas market in the town centre. Look out for magical projections and take part in a prize draw with the chance to win up to £50 to spend in participating shops.
From Friday, December 12, St George’s Church Christmas Tree Festival will open daily for ten days, inviting you to admire dozens of decorated trees and vote for your favourite.
Festive highlights continue throughout the season, including Carols by Candlelight, Christmas concerts, a Christmas Market at Ramsgate Tunnels, and celebrations across the town. And, if all goes to plan, Ramsgate will round off the year in spectacular style with a huge community parade on New Year’s Eve where everyone is welcome! Free workshops will run in the lead-up so you can create your own piece to be part of the parade.
Of course, no Christmas in Ramsgate would be complete without a pantomime and this year The Granville Theatre’s production of Aladdin promises fun for the whole family. Check out their website for details on how to book.
With so much happening across November and December, you’ll be spoilt for choice. For full listings and updates, head to the What’s On Ramsgate page at Visit Ramsgate or scan the QR code.
I can’t think of anywhere I’d rather be than Ramsgate this Christmas and on behalf of Ramsgate Town Council, I wish you all a joyful festive season and hope you enjoy every magical moment our town has to offer!