The Trafford Centre has switched on its Christmas lights for 2026, and shoppers can now see a giant new walk-through Christmas tree along the main Regent Crescent mall. The tree, which features a big red flashing bow, is expected to be popular with families taking festive selfies over the next eight weeks.
New festive installations unveiled
The festive lights were quietly switched on across the mall on Friday night [November 6]. In past years, a big Christmas switch-on event was held, but this is no longer part of the mall's event schedule. Last year, the centre unveiled new-look lights as part of a major "refresh and reimagining" of its Christmas lights scheme.
At The Orient, some of the biggest light displays have returned, including Santa riding his big red sleigh with his team of reindeers across the food court. The waving Santa was a new addition last year, along with a giant festive wreath arch on the upper floor of The Orient. Santa's sleigh is pulled by nine reindeer, with Rudolph leading the fleet with his bright red nose.
Chandeliers return to the main mall
The giant gold and red festive chandeliers have returned to the main mall, replacing last year's hot air balloon displays. The biggest chandelier is at the Main Dome by Selfridges, where it is so large it feels almost touchable when using the escalators.
While some have complained that November is "too early" for Christmas lights, the displays have been switched on later than in past years. The mall previously switched on lights in October to tie in with half term holidays, but after customer feedback that it was too early, it switched back to November.
Haribo grotto and Christmas fair ahead
The lights going on comes ahead of the busiest time of the year for the Trafford shopping mall. Later this month will see the opening of its new Christmas grotto experience, which this year has an entirely new theme. The Haribo Holly Jolly Grotto is currently being built in a new structure outside The Great Hall, marking a first-time tie-in between the shopping centre and the sweetie giant.
Running from November 20 through to December 24, the event promises "hands-on challenges, larger-than-life installations, and plenty of seasonal cheer". Prices are from £8 for adults and £20 for kids, although many time slots have already sold out. November will also see the return of the Christmas fair outside The Great Hall.
