This is when Brighton's Christmas lights will be turned on

Brilliant Brighton will unveil its new lights in Brighton city centre from Thursday, November 19.

Funded by over 500 businesses and supported by Costa Coffee, the display will illuminate the North Laine, The Lanes, East Street, Western Road and North Street.

The new display will see the "street art inspired" alien series, previously displayed on North Street, replaced.

The woodland-inspired light display in North Laine's Bond Street, Gardner Street and Kensington Garden have also been changed to more traditional, hanging string lights.

An alien wearing a Santa hat had previously been a regular feature over the Christmas period on North Street

Shelley Welti, marketing and events manager for Brilliant Brighton, said: "We're so excited to unveil our brand new Christmas lights this year.

"The beautiful gold scheme will bring a gorgeous glow to the city centre from Thursday 19th November, and it's a real gift to Brighton from our 500+ businesses who each year contribute to light up the city centre at Christmas."

To mark the occasion, Brilliant Brighton will host its festive afternoon on Saturday, December 5, from 2pm to 6pm.

It will also coincide with Small Business Saturday - a nationwide initiative encouraging residents to “shop local” and support independent businesses.

Hit the Silk performing last year (Image: Brilliant Brighton)

The event will include live music, entertainment and family-friendly activities across the city centre.

Cheerful helpers will hand out festive treats, while performers and choirs fill the streets with Christmas music.

The line-up includes Some Voices, Free Brighton Choir, SHE Choir, South Coast Trombone Choir, Hit The Silk, Jessica Hallam, and Ger O’Hanlon.

Ms Welti added: "Our festive afternoon is the perfect opportunity to come into the city, enjoy the lights, listen to some brilliant local performers, and explore all the fantastic festive window displays.

"Whether you're shopping for those all-important gifts or catching up with friends over something delicious in one of our many pubs, restaurants, bars, and cafés, there's plenty of Christmas cheer to enjoy."

Additionally, the popular festive window dressing competition trail will return.

Lights in the Lanes last year (Image: Brilliant Brighton)

Businesses across the city centre are invited to create seasonal displays for the public to enjoy.

Visitors can vote for their favourite window, with both the winning business and a randomly selected voter receiving a £100 Brilliant Brighton gift card.

The trail begins on Saturday, December 5, and runs until Sunday, January 3, 2027.

Richard Sherrington, area manager for Costa Coffee in Brighton, said: "Christmas is a special time for communities, and we're delighted to be supporting Brilliant Brighton's Christmas lights and festive afternoon this year.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for local people to come together, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

"We look forward to seeing the local community celebrate and make the most of everything the festive afternoon has to offer."