Newmarket is set to sparkle once again this festive season as the town’s much-loved Christmas Light Switch On returns on Friday 21st November, organised by Love Newmarket BID.

The event, which begins at 4:30 pm on the High Street, promises an evening full of festive fun, live entertainment and a warm community atmosphere as we welcome the start of the Christmas shopping season.

This year, the honour of turning on the lights will go to local hero Mark O’Reilly, a dedicated coach and volunteer at the New Astley Boxing Club who was nominated by several local residents in Love Newmarket’s recent hero search.

Mark, who has lived in Newmarket for over 35 years, was nominated for his outstanding contribution to the community and the positive impact he has had on generations of young people.

Speaking about the honour, Mark said: “I’m extremely honoured to have been asked to turn on the Christmas Lights this year. I’ve been in the town for 36 years and don’t see that anything I do is particularly worthy of the title; I just do what I’m able to help our community.

“I’m in a position to help the kids of our area, giving them a chance that I didn’t have myself. I’ve volunteered for over 25 years, and have seen generations through the ring. Some start with me with gloves up to their elbows, next thing they’re towering above me with their own kid holding their hand.

“Mental illness is a big part of my life. I try and be there or talk to people as much as I can. In my industry, mental health is rife. I keep in contact as much as I can but it’s not a big deal – it’s just something I do.

“I’m very lucky to be in a position to do what I do so why wouldn’t I help people if I can. I’m no one special; I’m just Mark O’Reilly from the flats.”

The evening will be filled with live music and performances from local groups including Fairstead House School Choir, The Snow Queen & Friends, Vogue Athletics, the Starlight Sisters and the Newmarket Community Choir, leading up to the big moment at 7 pm when Mark will take to the stage to switch on the lights and officially start the festive season.

Visitors can enjoy a funfair, market stalls, Mr & Mrs Claus in the Newmarket Charitable Foundation’s pop up shop and festive food and drink from a range of local favourites such as The Tack Box, Waitrose, Il Sapori di Napoli, Bravo Café, Richer Spirits and Paulina’s Chilean Bakery. Many of the town’s independent shops, cafés and restaurants will stay open late to give visitors the chance to shop local and soak up the Christmas atmosphere.

All public car parks will be free from 4 pm, with the Guineas multi-storey remaining open until 9 pm. Public toilets at The Guineas will also stay open until 9 pm for the duration of the event.

Natalie Robinson, Manager of Love Newmarket BID, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have Mark as our Christmas Light Switch On hero this year. His dedication, compassion and quiet commitment to helping others truly embodies the spirit of Newmarket. Mark represents everything that’s special about our town — community, kindness and pride. We can’t wait to celebrate the start of the festive season with him.”

The Christmas Light Switch On is proudly supported by Crem Recruitment, Newmarket Town Council and Tattersalls. With festive food, music, entertainment and a true community hero at its heart, this year’s event promises to be one of the most magical yet.

Find out here.