Kenilworth is set to only have one Christmas light switch-on event in 2026 due to dwindling attendance numbers and problems with local businesses.

In previous years, the town has had two events to kick-start the festive season, one on High Street and the second on Warwick Road.

The latter has traditionally seen the town centre closed off to allow for a funfair, market, live music and more to take over before the light switch on.

However, for 2026 Warwick District Council has confirmed this year's town centre event will be much smaller, with no light switch-on. Only High Street will have a switch-on event.

Instead, a 'festive hub' is due to be held at Abbey End, featuring market stalls, food, drink and small children's rides, with brass band and choir performances in the afternoon.

This will take place on Saturday 28 November.

"This event replaces the lights switch on event usually held along Warwick Road on the last Sunday in November, following feedback from local businesses and reduced visitor numbers over the years," the council said.

"There will be no switch on at the Festive Hub as this is a daytime event."

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Meanwhile the lights will be switched on at the High Street event on Friday 27 November.

The traditional event has once again been organised by Kenilworth Town Council, Old Town Community Events and the High Street Illuminations Committee, and will have entertainment, food and drink from 5pm to 8pm.

The lights will be switched on at High Street and across the town at 6pm by the Mayor of Kenilworth, Cllr Alison Insley.

Explaining the town centre change further, the district council said on social media: "In recent years attendance and footfall at the Kenilworth Warwick Road light switch-on event has fallen significantly, leaving live performers with very small audiences.

"It has also been challenging to accommodate the differing needs of local businesses.

"Some opposed the event and closed for the day, while others raised concerns about nearby food and drink concessions, fairground rides or generators."