Traffic and travel information ahead of this weekend’s Christmas Light Switch-On in Derry

The Christmas Light Switch On event in the City Centre will take place on Friday, November 21, kicking off at 6:30pm from Bishop Street.

The council said that no full road closures are currently planned, although the council added that they have contingency measures ready should traffic restrictions be required for public safety or to facilitate the parade. There will be restrictions in some of the city centre car parks which may impact visitors. Bishop Street Car Park and Victoria Market Car Parks will have a partial closure, while Foyle Street Car Park will be completely closed to visitors. There will be accessible parking at Victoria Market Car Park.

A council spokesperson said that the areas most likely to experience temporary disruption include Bishop Street, The Diamond, Ferryquay Street, Orchard Street, Foyle Street and Strand Road. Every effort will be made to minimise the impact on local businesses, but the public is advised to plan for the possibility of delays.

The Christmas Procession begins at 6.30pm on Bishop Street and will conclude at Victoria Market Car Park, passing through Guildhall Square. The parade route for 2025 is as follows: Bishop Street, The Diamond, Ferryquay Street, Ferryquay Gate, Orchard Street, Foyle Street, Guildhall Square, Waterloo Place, Strand Road, finishing at Victoria Market.

Event organisers are reminding attendees to wrap up warmly and prepare for the winter weather to ensure a safe and enjoyable evening.

Drivers have been reminded by the council that normal on-street parking restrictions will apply. Please avoid parking in areas that block access to homes or businesses, or in locations that could obstruct emergency routes.

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairí McHugh said: I encourage everyone to follow the travel and safety advice issued by event organisers and to stay updated through our social media channels. it’s important that we all work together to keep the event safe, enjoyable, and as disruption-free as possible."

Organisers added that the public is strongly encouraged to use public transport or consider walking to the event. Car parks on both the Cityside and Waterside will operate as normal, including Foyleside, Quayside, and Ulster University parking facilities.