Boldmere Community Festival
with Christmas Lights Switch On
Sunday 18th november 2018, 2pm - 7pm
Lights Switch On at 5:30pm

The Boldmere Community Festival with Christmas Lights Switch on saw nearly 10,000 people take to Boldmere’s thriving high street. At its peak, there were estimated to be 6,500 people gathered to watch Channel 4’s Autistic Gardener, Alan Gardner, switch on the lights in Boldmere.
A tradition that started in 2012 after winning a Government backed initiative by Mary Portas to enhance High Streets, led by Pippa Goode and Martin Pedley with a few market stalls, has flourished into Sutton’s biggest lights switch on event with two live musical entertainment stages, a dance zone and over 80 Christmas market stalls. Pippa and Martin commented ‘we never believed that from such humble beginnings it would lead to such a great event attended by thousands of people who love their community’.
Channel 4’s Autistic Gardener said, “I was honoured to switch on the lights for such an amazing community in the heart of Sutton Coldfield.”
Musical entertainment was provided by Bishop Vesey Grammar School’s band, Sutton Coldfield Community Choir, Sutton Coldfield Tuneless Choir and headline acts First Request (part of Real Life church), Ire-Ish and Rosie O’Sullivan. Crowds were also entertained with a glimpse of Highbury Theatre’s pantomime Aladdin.
Download the Festival Map & Guide

Click here to download a PDF of the Christmas 2018 Map & Guide.
We Need Your Help!
In order to continue making a success of our events, WE NEED HELP! If you are interested in volunteering on the day, beforehand or in any capacity, please complete the form below and we will be in touch.
Road Closure Notice
Please be advised that Boldmere Road will be CLOSED to traffic for all Boldmere Community Festivals. Please look out for posters and notices displayed nearer the time advising of the specific details.