Warrington Unwrapped 2026 kicks off this Friday, November 13th, with Warrington BID running an exciting launch weekend in the town centre. An outdoor film screening, the Christmas Lights Switch-On, artisan markets and the opening of Winter Wonderland will mark the start of a festive programme that runs through November and December.
For businesses, that should mean more people in town this weekend and until the New Year. Here is what is on and where, so you can plan staffing and opening hours around it.
Friday, November 13th – Elf under the stars
The weekend opens with an outdoor screening of Elf at The Skittles at Market Gate from 7pm. Visitors are being encouraged to bring camping chairs and blankets, so expect people to arrive early. Food and drink businesses close to Market Gate may want to plan for the lead-up to 7pm.
Saturday, November 14th – Christmas Lights Switch-On
The Skittles at Market Gate hosts a full day of entertainment from 11am to 6.30pm. Entertainment builds through the afternoon, and businesses open through to the switch-on and beyond are well placed to catch people before and after it. Key times on the day are below.
- 11am – live performances begin
- 3pm – walkabout characters begin, running until 6pm
- 5.50pm – the Mayor and the day’s performers join the stage
- 6pm – Christmas Lights Switch-On
Christmas Artisan Markets – Saturday, November 14th and Sunday, November 15th
Independent traders will be set up across Old Market Place in Golden Square, Bridge Street, Dolmans Lane and Time Square, selling handmade gifts. The markets are organised by Independent Street in partnership with Warrington BID. They open on Saturday from 11am to 7pm and on Sunday from 11am to 5pm.
If your premises are on or near these streets, the trader list shows who will be outside your door.
View the full list of traders attending over the weekend.
Winter Wonderland – from Friday, November 13th
Winter Wonderland opens at Time Square on Academy Street with fairground rides and seasonal treats. It runs until Thursday, December 24th, which gives the town centre more than five weeks of added footfall.
What comes next
The launch weekend is only the start. From Friday, November 27th to Sunday, January 3rd, 2027, Christmas at Golden Square brings a new outdoor ice rink and the Grinch’s Whoville Grotto.
Shops, restaurants and bars across the town centre will be marking the season through November and December, with special menus and party nights as well as events for all ages.
If your business has a festive event, offer or extended opening hours planned, get in touch with the BID team at [email protected].
See all of the Christmas events on in Warrington town centre.