Christmas is coming to Ilford!

Get ready for an unforgettable day as Christmas inIlford returns on Saturday 21 November 2026, bringing a fantastic celebration of festive entertainment, family attractions, fairground rides, live performances and spectacular Christmas lights to the heart of Ilford.

From exciting rides and children’s activities to live music, theatre performances, reindeer encounters and magical festive experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

And as the sun sets, Ilford will be transformed by sparkling Christmas lights, illuminated installations and an exciting evening finale.

Whether you’re planning a full family day out or joining us for the evening celebrations, Christmas inIlford promises a wonderful opportunity to make festive memories.

Experience the magic of Christmas in Ilford.

9:00 am – Start your day with our exciting fairground rides

Why wait until the afternoon to have fun? Our fairground attractions open from 9:00 am on Ilford High Road, giving visitors plenty of time to enjoy their favourites.

For those looking for excitement, take on the Miami Ride, experience the Paratrooper or enjoy the thrills of our other fairground attractions.

Younger visitors can discover the colourful Teacups Ride, Mini Train Ride and Children’s Play Centre, while families can enjoy a wide variety of rides and experiences throughout the day.

The fairground will operate until 7:00 pm, giving everyone the opportunity to return for another ride as the Christmas atmosphere builds.

10:00 am – Explore our festive market and Christmas village

Take time to browse the Christmas village and market stalls, where visitors can discover seasonal treats, gifts, food and refreshments.

Whether you’re looking for something delicious to eat, a little Christmas shopping or simply a place to soak up the festive atmosphere, our market will add to the excitement of the day.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying everything Ilford town centre has to offer.

11:00 am – Ilford’s talented performers take centre stage

Christmas inIlford isn’t just about rides and attractions. We’re also celebrating the fantastic talent within our community.

Our Christmas inIlford Vocal & Instrument Competition and Talent Show Competition will bring singers, musicians and performers together for an exciting programme of live entertainment outside Redbridge Town Hall.

Come along, cheer on the finalists and enjoy an afternoon showcasing creativity, confidence and incredible local talent.

Alongside the competitions, visitors can enjoy music, entertainment and performances as the atmosphere builds throughout the afternoon.

12:00 pm – Free festive family fun at Exchange Ilford

From midday, Exchange Ilford Level 2 will become a festive destination filled with activities and memorable family experiences.

Capture a special moment at our free Christmas photobooth, complete with festive props and plenty of opportunities for photographs.

Families can also meet reindeer and Santa’s helpers, adding a little extra Christmas magic for younger visitors.

There will be opportunities to meet wonderful walkabout characters, including Hodman and Sally, as well as other activities designed to keep children entertained.

With so many free experiences available, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy Christmas together.

The afternoon – More entertainment, more festive excitement

As the afternoon continues, the celebrations will keep building with performances and entertainment taking place across the event.

From music and stage entertainment to spectacular visual moments, visitors will have plenty of reasons to stay and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

With activities taking place across several locations, families can move between the High Road, Exchange Ilford and Redbridge Town Hall to experience different parts of the celebration.

4:00 pm – Feel the magic of Christmas snow!

As the afternoon turns into evening, Christmas inIlford takes on an entirely different atmosphere.

At 4:25pm, visitors can experience the magic of festive snow on Ilford High Road.

Gather your family, look up and enjoy the wonderful sight of snow falling against the backdrop of our Christmas celebrations.

It’s a perfect moment for photographs and a lovely way to welcome the evening festivities.

6:30 pm – Watch Ilford sparkle with spectacular Christmas lights

One of the highlights of Christmas inIlford is the transformation of the town centre after dark.

From 6:30 pm, visitors can enjoy our illuminated Christmas features, creating a magical setting along Ilford High Road.

Discover the striking I LOVE ILFORD installation, pose beside the beautiful Angel Wings and explore the stunning displays of illuminated Christmas trees.

Our light features will provide wonderful photo opportunities for families, couples and friends, while bringing warmth, colour and festive cheer to the heart of the town centre.

Make sure you have your camera ready!

A spectacular fireworks finale!

To turn on the lights, we will invite all attendees to the events towards its spectacular evening finale. Our fireworks display will bring a burst of colour and excitement to the night sky for our Christmas celebrations.

6:30 pm – Live Christmas music and festive performances

As evening falls, the stage near Redbridge Town Hall will continue to provide a festive soundtrack to the celebrations.

Enjoy the wonderful sounds of the Vivacity Quartet, bringing familiar Christmas favourites to life and encouraging visitors to sing along.

With music, entertainment and Christmas lights all around, the atmosphere will be perfect for families and friends enjoying an evening together in Ilford.

Join us for Christmas inIlford 2026!

From thrilling rides and magical family experiences to talented local performers, Christmas music, beautiful light installations and fireworks, there’s so much to look forward to.

Whether you visit for an hour or spend the whole day exploring, we can’t wait to welcome you to Ilford for a wonderful Christmas celebration.

Saturday 21 November 2026 – Ilford High Road, Exchange Ilford and Redbridge Town Hall.

Bring your family, invite your friends and make Christmas memories in Ilford!

Most family activities and entertainment are free. Fairground rides are paid attractions. Programme details and timings are subject to change.