As the evenings draw in and the first frost of winter whispers through the Wharfe valley, the village of Burley-in-Wharfedale is gearing up to illuminate the festive season once more.
The annual Christmas Lights Switch-On, Market and Craft Fair is set to take place on Saturday 29 November 2025 from 2pm, organised by the Burley in Wharfedale Community Trust (BWCT).
Nick Turnbull, a BWCT trustee, told Your Ilkley:
“This festive event has become a cherished tradition in the village calendar. In 1981, village resident Tom Sumner placed a simple set of barbecue lights on a tree in the fountain area at the bottom of Station Road, then under renovation as part of a community project. The lights display grew over the years, led by Tom and a trusty crew of resident volunteers. The Community Trust, established in 2003, took over responsibility for the Christmas lights, the market and craft fair as part of its wider remit to support community life and amenities in Burley.”
“In recent years, the event has grown beyond a simple lights-switch-on gathering: now in its 44th year, it continues the tradition of being led by volunteers who can be seen every autumn installing the light motifs along Main Street and up to the station area.”
The event is also an important fundraiser: proceeds from the market and the lights event support the village Christmas Lights Fund, enabling the display to continue and grow.
What to Expect on the Day
- The Craft Market in the Queen’s Hall will be open from 1.30pm to 5.30pm. From 2 pm the street market opens along Main Street, offering artisan stalls, local food producers, handcrafted gifts and festive treats. In the adjacent Queens Hall, the Craft Fair will feature independent makers and local businesses, providing a warm indoor space to browse while the festivities unfold outside.
- Live performances will add a musical and celebratory touch: local choirs, ukulele groups and drama school pupils will be taking the stage outside The Grange, building up to the moment when the lights are switched on by a special guest at approximately 4:25 pm.
- Families can expect funfair rides, food stalls (including local favourites) alongside the popular local businesses all remaining open, hot chocolate and mulled refreshments; and of course a festive atmosphere as the lights transform the village centre into a winter wonderland.
Why It Matters
- For residents and visitors alike, this event offers more than festive decor. It brings the village together, supports local traders and makers, and helps ensure that communal spaces are lively and well supported. The Community Trust’s involvement means that the event is part of a broader commitment to village life—lights, the duck race, Summer Festival, hanging baskets, tubs, Wharfedale Wombles and more.
- Practical Tips
- Arrive early (1:30 pm Craft Market; 2 pm outdoor Market) to make the most of the market stalls and fairground rides.
- The lights switch-on is about 4:25 pm—plan to be in the village centre just before that to enjoy the lead-up performances.
- Main Street will be closed from midday until about 6:30 pm for the event. Parking and traffic disruptions may apply.
- Warm clothing, sturdy footwear for the evening chill, and maybe a hot drink in hand will help you enjoy the atmosphere.
- Bring cash/portable payment methods as stalls may vary in capabilities.
If you’d like to support the Community Trust’s wider work, donations and membership are welcomed, further information is available at burleycommunitytrust.org.uk.
Nick added:
"With the switch-on marking the start of festive activities in the village, this year’s event promises special additions and community spirit in abundance. Whether you’re shopping for handcrafted gifts at the market, enjoying live music, or simply watching the lights sparkle across the village, it’s one to mark on the calendar."
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