Image: Glasgow Life
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As George Square is still closed for its redevelopment project until August 2026, the Christmas Lights Switch-On event is taking on a new shape, as well as the Winterfest Christmas Market locations.
Overall, Christmastime in Glasgow is looking a lot different now, with the company behind M&D’s theme park taking over the Christmas Markets. Instead of George Street, the market will be moved to Glasgow Green, while the usual St Enoch location will remain. The contract to work with the company runs from October 2025 to January 2027, so it looks like we will see them back with us again next year.
What is Glasgow Christmas Lights Switch-On being replaced with in 2025? 
Image: Marti Bug Catcher, Shutterstock
Glasgow city centre is being turned into a sparkly light trail with works from various artists, brightening up our streets. The artists have already been selected, with Glasgow Life not having shared all the details yet.
According to a council report, this year’s Christmas celebrations are “moving away from that of a traditional Christmas market delivered previously to a festive winter hubs approach”, while giving “a more coherent approach to winter, bringing together commercial, civic and community events under a single umbrella to attract visitors, engage citizens and support city centre vibrancy”.
“These key festive attractions will serve to attract visitors from the city and beyond into the city centre, encourage dwell time there and promote subsequent additional visits to the city’s retail and hospitality sectors. It will have a broad appeal and be firmly family-focused with attractions for all age groups.”
Credit: Glasgow Christmas Market
A spokesperson for Glasgow Life said: “Glasgow’s Christmas lights are a much-loved tradition and this year we’re doing things a little differently.”
“With ongoing works at George Square, we have the opportunity to reimagine the city’s festive lights through a brand-new trail across the city centre. Talented artists have been chosen to lead the project, and we’re now working together to bring their ideas to life.”
“We’re looking forward to sharing more information soon. People who live in Glasgow, and the many thousands who visit during the Christmas period, can look forward to a magical experience that will bring festive sparkle to different parts of the city centre.”