Drones set to dazzle at Rugby's Christmas lights switch-on

The festive family event takes place from 3pm to 8pm on Saturday 21 November, transforming the town centre into a winter wonderland with a fun fair, live entertainment and a festive land train.

Dazzling drone displays lift off from The Close at Rugby School at 5pm and 7pm, illuminating the town centre skies with spectacular light shows set to music.

A festive feast of family fun awaits revellers in the heart of the town centre, with music, dance, fair rides, and a selection of seasonal food and drink all on offer.

The Christmas lights switch-on also features free children's arts and crafts, storytelling, face painting, fire pits, a Teenage Market, silent disco and, of course, Santa welcoming guests to his grotto.

And at 6pm, Father Christmas joins the Mayor of Rugby, Cllr Nooria Sayani, in North Street to switch on Rugby's Christmas lights.

Cllr Louise Robinson, leader of Rugby Borough Council, said the event promised to bring Christmas cheer to the town centre. 

"The council's town centre events programme has successfully increased footfall in 2026 and this year's Christmas lights switch-on delivers a first for Rugby with a state-of-the-art drone display," Cllr Robinson added.

"It promises to be a magical day out for all the family and the perfect opportunity to support our town centre shops and businesses during the run-up to Christmas."

Visitors to the Christmas lights switch-on can park for free at council-owned town centre car parks, except North Street and Chestnut Fields, which host part of the celebrations.

Tickets for the drone displays at The Close cost £5 (under twos for free) and can be booked online at www.therugbytown.co.uk/whats-on/christmas 

With limited capacity at both displays, book early to avoid disappointment.

Cllr Jerry Roodhouse, deputy leader of the council, said: "The Christmas lights switch-on signals the start of the festive season in Rugby, when families come together in the spirit of reflection and celebration.

"We're looking forward to welcoming visitors to the town centre for a fantastic family event."

The council's town centre festive programme also includes the Rugby Christmas Market on Saturday 28 November, followed by the Rugby Lights and Lanterns Procession on Saturday 19 December.

For more information, visit www.therugbytown.co.uk or follow The Rugby Town on social media.