Photo Knutsford Town Council L to R Khadija Jones of Graham & Brown Sue Williams from Blossom Boutique Harrison Wild of Oliver Wild Richard Clare of Clare and Illingworth Lucie Jordan of The Edit Boutique Lucy Norris of Live with Lucy

Knutsford Fashion Week

Knutsford’s extremely popular collaborative fashion event Flash Fashion returns in May for a week-long celebration of fashion under the new name Knutsford Fashion Week.

Flash Fashion started in 2019 as a one-day event showcasing the best of the town’s independent fashion retailers. Since then, it has evolved to include a catwalk show in The Lost and Found and for 2026 it has expanded into a week-long event sponsored by Laura Davies Styling.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, the event includes one-to-one styling appointments, collaborative colour analysis with Princess Street’s Graham & Brown and Laura Davies Styling, prize draws, a sustainable style showcase at Clare and Illingworth culminating in a the much-loved and hugely popular catwalk show on Saturday 16th May.

Those taking part include –

  • Blossom Boutique
  • Graham & Brown
  • Clare & Illingworth
  • Willow Boutiques
  • Alex&er Jewellery
  • Bare Necessities
  • Zapatos
  • Kanoa Living
  • Riva Menswear
  • Oliver Wild
  • Chalk 33
  • Satya Sanctuary
  • Guinot
  • The Edit
  • Redress at Dexter & Jones
  • CAFT (Children’s Adventure Farm Trust)
  • British Red Cross
  • Milania Boutique
  • Lanigan and Hulme
  • Paris Ladies Boutique

The catwalk show finale takes place at Lost and Found on Saturday 16th May at 11am with ITV presenter Katy Rickitt of Dexter & Jones compering. Attendees can then browse the shops and enjoy a variety of complimentary services in store including on-hand beauty treatments, a glass of fizz and exclusive offers.

Sponsor Laura Davies of Laura Davies, said “I am delighted to return as the key sponsor for Knutsford Fashion Week. Having supported this premier event since 2023, I have seen first-hand how effectively it champions our town’s vibrant independent boutiques and unique community spirit. I am particularly excited to be teaming up with Lucy Norris of Live with Lucy Norris in the lead-up to the event, where we will be showcasing the season’s must-have spring and summer trends while demonstrating how to curate a stylish wardrobe for every budget.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council said “This event has gained quite the following over the years, and we are excited to bring it back for 2026 in its extended form. We would like to extend a huge thanks to Sean and the Lost and Found team for their hospitality and of course our volunteer models. The shops will have some fabulous Spring/ Summer collections instore this week will be the perfect outing for customers to get inspired, plan their summer wardrobes and go shopping!”

Leaflets showcasing every boutiques offer are now available in shops and eateries around Knutsford to allow shoppers to plan their week.

Jake O'Neill singing at the microphone

Top UK country acts set to perform at Knutsford Music Festival

Knutsford is set for a huge night of live music this summer as the Knutsford Music Festival brings a Country Collection Evening to St John’s Church on Saturday 6th June and organisers say it could be one of the standout events of the year.

Headlining the evening is UK country sensation Jake O’Neill, who has rapidly become one of the most exciting names in British country music. After rising to national attention on The Voice UK, where he was mentored by Tom Jones, Jake has gone on to top the UK country charts, earning recognition as one of the UK’s leading male country artists.

His music, including fan favourites such as “Better Off Without Me” and “Out of the Blue”, blends heartfelt storytelling with a modern country edge. Jake has even travelled to Texas, the heartland of country music, honing his sound and drawing inspiration from the genre’s roots, something that shines through in his authentic, powerful live performances.

Joining him are Outpost Drive, the Anglo-American duo who are making serious waves on both sides of the Atlantic. Splitting their time between Nashville and the UK, they’ve worked with some of the biggest names in the industry and have supported major touring acts, building a fast-growing international fanbase.

Known for tracks like “Time Is a Dirty Thief” and “Better Off Lonely”, Outpost Drive bring a fresh, transatlantic take on country music, combining rich harmonies with polished songwriting and an energetic stage presence that has wowed audiences wherever they perform.

Caroline Haynes, Events Manager at Knutsford Town Council, said:
“We’re thrilled to be bringing artists of this calibre to Knutsford. Jake O’Neill is at the top of the UK country scene, and Outpost Drive are phenomenal live; acts you’d usually travel to see! Having them both at St John’s Church will make for a truly special, intimate night.”

With its beautiful setting and limited capacity, St John’s Church will offer a rare opportunity to see these rising stars up close, something organisers say is a big part of what makes the event so exciting. There is a real buzz around Country music at the moment and these two acts are right at the heart of it.

Tickets are now on sale for £22.50, but with strong interest already building, they are expected to sell quickly.

Whether you’re a long-time country fan or just looking for a great night out in Knutsford, this promises to be a memorable evening of top-quality live music. The event will take place on Saturday 6th June at St John’s Church in Knutsford. Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/knutsfordmusicfestival/2029703

Pictured Knutsford Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley and Julia Chard from Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe with children who took part in the Easter Bonnet Competition.

Bunny Hop Brings Easter Buzz to Knutsford Town Centre

Knutsford Town Centre welcomed families on Saturday 4th April as the annual Bunny Hop returned for an afternoon of Easter Fun.

The Easter-themed trail, organised by Knutsford Town Council, invited families to explore the town centre by searching for hidden bunnies displayed in shop windows. Each bunny featured a letter, with participants collecting them on entry forms to complete the trail and enter a prize draw.

This year’s Peter Rabbit & Friends theme proved popular, with many families dressing up and taking part in the day’s activities. Alongside the trail, visitors enjoyed a range of entertainment including games and activities at the Market Hall on Silk Mill Street and Easter-themed displays across the town.

The Easter Bonnet Competition was a highlight of the day, with a fantastic range of entries. Knutsford Town Council would like to thank Julia from Knutsford Old Sweet Shoppe and the Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley for judging the competition. Congratulations to the three winners and to everyone that took part with their very creative Easter Bonnets.

The event was kindly sponsored by Little Waitrose, Clare & Illingworth Optometrists, Piccolino, and Linden Stores whose support enabled the event to be delivered for the community.

Caroline Haynes, Events Officer at Knutsford Town Council, said: 

“It was fantastic to see so many families out enjoying the Bunny Hop and exploring the town centre. The support from our local businesses and the effort people put into taking part really made the day special.”

For more information about upcoming events, visit www.discoverknutsford.com/events.

Charlotte Montgomery from Satya Sanctuary sat on the floor leading a Yoga class.

Knutsford Health & Wellness Week 2026 Brings the Community Together

Knutsford held its third week-long celebration of health and wellbeing this March. Organised by Knutsford Town Council, in collaboration with a range of the town’s health and wellbeing specialists, this year’s theme was ‘Nurturing Mind, Body and Soul’ with both residents and visitors enjoying a varied programme suitable for all ages, needs and abilities.

The week began with Re-Fresh Knutsford, a vibrant community fair at St John’s Church and Knutsford Methodist Church. Visitors explored a variety of local clubs, groups, volunteer opportunities, and wellbeing businesses and discovered new ways to get involved in the community.

The week highlighted how fortunate the town is to have such a wide range of health and wellbeing businesses on its doorstep, offering services and support that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike throughout the year.

Rodger Lewin from Knutsford Hearing Centre
Sign of Refresh Knutsford with blue and white ballons.
An arrangement of grapes, a smoothie, eggs
Womens Hormones talk at York & Co with speakers Monique Qureshi (Yoga Practitioner), Louise Carter (Dietician), Claire Milton (Womens Health GP), Claire Millington (Personal Trainer) and Lucy Norris (Presenter)

Throughout the week, participants took part in an exciting programme of free and discounted taster sessions, including Pilates, yoga, boxing, circuit training, massage, sound baths, and hypnotherapy. Health checks and screenings were also available, covering dry eye care, oral health, osteopathy, cardiovascular wellness, hearing tests, and musculoskeletal assessments. Specialist talks covered nutrition, menopause, infant and child food, posture, and relationship coaching.

Richard Clare, Managing Director of Clare & Illingworth Optometrists, the event’s sponsor, said:

“We were proud to support Knutsford Health & Wellness Week 2026. It was wonderful to see the community come together to explore a wide range of health and wellbeing opportunities, and we were delighted to be part of such an important initiative.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council, added:

“Health & Wellness Week provided an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to engage with local wellbeing services and activities. We are grateful to all the businesses who participated and helped make the week so enjoyable for the community.”

The Town Council would like to thank Clare & Illingworth Optometrists for sponsoring the event and all participating businesses for their contributions.

Businesses involved included:

  • Roberta Beauty Redefined
  • Elite Health
  • Clare & Illingworth Optometrists
  • King Street Dental
  • Casbah Fitness
  • Soul Reformer
  • NC Health & Wellness
  • Judi Quirke Hypnotherapy
  • Find Your Backbone
  • King Street Dental
  • Satya Sanctuary
  • Tor Nutrition & Guided Outdoor Adventures
  • Siân Winslade Relationship Coach
  • York + Co.
  • Nicola Parish – Non-Linear Movement Method® and Reiki Healing Meditation
  • Empower Dance
  • Tomorrow Cardiovascular Wellness
  • K Clinic Dental
  • Knutsford Hearing Centre
  • Stable Minds
  • Carmichael Clinic of Physiotherapy & Acupuncture
  • Helen Jones Nutrition
Pictured Richard Clare from Clare & Illingworth, Charlotte Pearson from Waitrose

Knutsford Bunny Hop Returns for a day of family fun.

Families are invited to hop into Knutsford Town Centre this Easter for the return of the much-loved Knutsford Bunny Hop, taking place on Saturday 4 April 2026.

The annual Easter trail will see children and families exploring the town centre in search of hidden bunnies, each displaying a letter. Participants note the letters on their entry form and once completed, post it into one of the dedicated Bunny Hop post boxes to be entered into a prize draw. Entry forms can be collected from

The Bunny Hop has become a firm favourite in Knutsford’s events calendar. The event was originally created by a group of local residents alongside its ‘sister’ event the Knutsford Pumpkin Path, before being taken on by Knutsford Town Council in 2018. The Council has organised the event ever since.

Taking place between 12pm and 4pm, there will be plenty of fun to enjoy across the town centre alongside the trail. Families can look forward to activities and games at the Market Hall on Silk Mill Street, competitions, Easter displays in the town and more. Expect to see creative costumes, beautifully decorated shop windows and lots of Easter cheer throughout the town.

Attendees can also bring along their Easter bonnets and take part in the Easter Bonnet Competition, held opposite Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe. The competition will be hosted by shop owner Julia and judged by the Mayor of Knutsford from 12.30pm on the day. All participants will receive a small gift for taking part, with prizes awarded for first place and runners-up for the best bonnet.

This year’s theme is Peter Rabbit & Friends, so visitors are encouraged to dress up and join in the fun.

Caroline Haynes, Events Manager at Knutsford Town Council, said:

“The Bunny Hop is always such a joyful day in Knutsford and it’s wonderful to see families exploring the town and supporting our fantastic local businesses. The Peter Rabbit & Friends theme is perfect for Easter and we’re really looking forward to seeing everyone’s costumes and the town buzzing with excitement.”

Many of Knutsford’s amazing local businesses will also be taking part. Look out for ‘Bunny Hop Friendly’ posters in shop windows to find businesses offering special promotions, activities and giveaways during the event.

The Bunny Hop is kindly sponsored by Waitrose, Clare & Illingworth, Piccolino and Linden Stores whose generous support helps make the event possible.

The event takes place casually across the town centre and roads will remain open, so parents and guardians are asked to ensure children are always supervised while enjoying the trail.

For enquiries about the event, please contact enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or call 01565 653 929 or visit www.discoverknutsford.com.

Knutsford Music Festival Back for Summer 2026!

Knutsford Music Festival is back for summer 2026; now in its ninth year and it is set to be one of the best yet. The four-day event will take place from Thursday, 4th June until Sunday 7th June, offering an extensive line-up of live performances and cultural activities across the town.

BBC Radio presenter Mark Radcliffe has once again partnered with Knutsford Town Council to curate an exciting programme of folk nights as part of this year’s event.

A man stood between two women, holding their instruments - Violin, Guitar and Cello.
The Rip Roaring Success will be opening Knutsford Music Festival 4th June!
Two women leaning back to back against a tree.
True Foxes are closing the festival 7th June!

The opening event on Thursday 4th June will celebrate the rich traditions of Bluegrass folk music, a vibrant blend of old-time mountain music, blues, jazz, and square dance fiddle. Mark Radcliffe presents an evening with The Rip Roaring Success at Knutsford Little Theatre. Widely regarded as the hottest Western Swing band east of El Paso, The Rip Roaring Success are renowned for their energetic stage presence and crowd-pleasing performances. They will be supported by The Rye Sisters, an emerging duo celebrated for their rich harmonies and heartfelt songwriting.

Following it on Friday 5th June, Mark Radcliffe presents Ranagri at St John’s Church. Ranagri are an award-winning Irish-English folk ensemble celebrated for their mesmerising blend of voices and traditional instrumentation, including flutes, whistles, harp, guitar, bouzouki, and bodhrán.  

With five acclaimed studio albums, including the critically praised Tradition II, listed among Folk Radio UK’s Top 10 albums of the year, Ranagri have established themselves as one of the most exciting and innovative acts on the contemporary folk scene.

Their vibrant live performances have captivated audiences across the UK and Europe at prestigious festivals and venues such as the Cambridge Folk Festival, Bloom Festival in Dublin, Montelago Festival in Italy, Birmingham Symphony Hall, and The Union Chapel.

Jake O'Neill leaning against a truck outside on a sunny day
Jake O’Neill is headlining The Country Collective on the 6th June

On Saturday 6th June Knutsford will host an intimate Country Collective Evening featuring two of the UK’s best country artists. Headlining is Jake O’Neill, who first captured national attention as a standout performer on The Voice UK, joining Tom Jones’s team and showcasing his talent under the guidance of one of music’s true icons. One of the UK’s most exciting emerging voices in country music, Jake O’Neill has earned multiple nominations at the 2024 British Country Music Awards, including Best Male Artist. He blends traditional country narratives with a contemporary edge, delivering soulful vocals, heartfelt songwriting, and dynamic live performances.

Jake O’Neill is supported by Outpost Drive, a dynamic country-rock band celebrated for their energetic live performances and rich, tight-knit harmonies. Combining the storytelling tradition of classic country with the driving edge of modern rock, Outpost Drive create a sound that is both heartfelt and electrifying and have quickly built a reputation as one of the most exciting emerging acts on the UK country scene.

On Sunday 7th June Knutsford Market Hall will be host to an immersive Latino evening at the Market Hall. Ticket holders can enjoy the vibrant sounds of a Cuban two-piece band while learning dance moves from the talented instructors at Salsa Dance Cheshire, making for a night of music, rhythm, and fun.

Also on Sunday over at Knutsford Little Theatre, Mark Radcliffe presents True Foxes. True Foxes are set to take the stage in an unmissable performance, supported by the talented Edwina Hayes. Known for their captivating live shows and emotive songwriting, True Foxes promise an evening of rich melodies and heartfelt performances, with Edwina Hayes adding her signature warmth and charm to the night.

People in a hall dancing
Salsa dance Cheshire will be joing this years festival for an immersive Latino night

Tickets for these headline events go on sale on Monday 9th March. Early bird tickets are available for one-week only, securing those quick of the marks 10% off ticket prices. Tickets can be purchased online at www.discoverknutsford.com/knutsford-music-festival

The full programme for the festival will be completed with Music on the Moor (Saturday 6th June) a  free, open-air event showcasing emerging local talent, alongside a programme of craft activities and workshops designed to engage audiences of all ages. A fringe festival featuring a mix of music will also take place across the bars, cafes, and restaurants of Knutsford.

Pictured James Power of Find Your Backbone, Richard Clare of Clare & Illingworth, Sian Winslade of Sian Winslade Coaching, Helen Jones of Helen Jones Nutrition, Charlotte Montgomery of Satya Sanctuary and Victoria Hudson of Casbah Fitness.

Knutsford’s Health & Wellness Week Returns – Bigger, Brighter and Better Than Ever

Knutsford Town Council is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Health & Wellness Week, taking place from Saturday 14th to Sunday 22nd March 2026. This year’s theme, Nurturing Mind, Body and Soul, invites residents to immerse themselves in a vibrant programme of activities celebrating health, wellbeing, and community.

The week kicks off with Re-Fresh Knutsford, a refreshed community fair showcasing local clubs, groups, classes, volunteer opportunities, and Knutsford’s fantastic wellbeing businesses. Saturday 14th March, 11am–2pm at St John’s Church and Knutsford Methodist Church, residents can drop in for free to explore new activities, meet like-minded people, and discover ways to get involved in the community.

Health, fitness and wellbeing are at the heart of the week, with residents able to enjoy free and discounted taster sessions including Pilates, yoga, boxing, circuit training, massage, sound baths, and hypnotherapy. Health checks and screenings are also available, covering dry eye care, oral health, osteopathy, cardiovascular wellness, hearing tests, and musculoskeletal assessments. Specialist talks will cover nutrition, menopause, infant and child food, posture, and relationship coaching.

The event is sponsored by Clare & Illingworth Optometrists on King Street. Richard Clare, Clare & Illingworth Managing Director said “We’re proud to sponsor Knutsford Health & Wellness Week 2026. It’s a fantastic opportunity for residents to explore ways to improve their health and wellbeing, from eye care to fitness, and to connect with local experts. We look forward to welcoming the community to our clinics and sharing advice on how small changes can make a big difference for your overall wellness.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council, said: “This is the perfect opportunity to try something new, connect with local experts, and prioritise your health and wellbeing.”

Many activities are free, while others are discounted or require booking, which can be arranged directly with the hosts. A full programme, including booking information, is available on the Discover Knutsford website, with printed copies available from town centre businesses.

Businesses involved include:

  • Roberta Beauty Redefined
  • Elite Health
  • Clare & Illingworth Optometrists
  • King Street Dental
  • Casbah Fitness
  • Soul Reformer
  • NC Health & Wellness
  • Judi Quirke Hypnotherapy
  • Find Your Backbone
  • King Street Dental
  • Satya Sanctuary
  • Tor Nutrition & Guided Outdoor Adventures
  • Siân Winslade Relationship Coach
  • York + Co.
  • Nicola Parish – Non-Linear Movement Method® and Reiki Healing Meditation
  • Empower Dance
  • Tomorrow Cardiovascular Wellness
  • K Clinic Dental
  • Knutsford Hearing Centre
  • Stable Minds
  • Carmichael Clinic of Physiotherapy & Acupuncture
  • Helen Jones Nutrition

Photo by Knutsford Town Council

Pictured James Power of Find Your Backbone, Richard Clare of Clare & Illingworth, Sian Winslade of Sian Winslade Coaching, Helen Jones of Helen Jones Nutrition, Charlotte Montgomery of Satya Sanctuary and Victoria Hudson of Casbah Fitness.

Councillor Lesley Dalzell and other members of Crosstown Community Orchard

Re-Fresh Knutsford call for Community Groups and Clubs to exhibit

Knutsford’s Community freshers-style fair, Re-Fresh Knutsford, is set to return in March giving community groups, charities, and clubs the opportunity to showcase their organisation and recruit members.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, Re-Fresh Knutsford emerged in 2021 as a community fair based on the concept of a ‘freshers fair’. The event gave Knutsford residents the opportunity to discover organisations and clubs within the town and to connect to groups working in the community.

Knutsford Town Council are currently recruiting community groups, charities, and clubs to showcase themselves on 14th March. The event will be held across two venues: Knutsford Methodist Church and St Johns Church from 11am – 2pm. It is free to exhibit for all groups.

Corporate Support Manager, Jeanette Hine said ‘Knutsford is lucky to be the home of many interesting clubs and community groups. As an active member of a local sports club, I know how rewarding being a member of a club can be. We understand it can be hard for clubs to get their organisation known and for residents to find exactly what they are looking for. This event is a brilliant opportunity to connect these groups to these residents and showcase what they do’

Any group wishing to exhibit at this event can do so by contacting enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk . The deadline for expressions of interest is 13th February 2026.

Cranford Cafe wins best Christmas Window!

Knutsford’s annual Christmas Window Competition, hosted by Knutsford Town Council, has once again brought seasonal cheer to the town centre.

The annual competition is judged by the Town Mayor alongside Ian Cass, Managing Director of the Forum of Private Business which also sponsors the annual Knutsford Town Awards. Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley and Ian toured the town centre to view all the window displays created by local businesses.

This year the winner was Cranford Café with their handmade window art created by manager Ian Whiteside. In second place was The Blind Pig for their painted window and decorated outdoor area. In third place was NaturalMat for their nature inspired festive display created inhouse from foraged materials.

The overall winner was presented with a trophy and certificate with 2nd Place and 3rd Place certificates going to the runners up. Certificates were also presented for best small window and best charity shop window.

The best small window award went to Morgan Edwards for their lush wreath display. Children’s Adventure Farm Trust won best charity shop window for their fun colourful display.

  • Second Prize, The Blind Pig, L to R - Adam Hilton The Blind Pig, Knutsford Mayor, Lauren Lavin The Blind Pig, Ian Cass, Forum of Private Businesses
    Second Prize, The Blind Pig, L to R – Adam Hilton The Blind Pig, Knutsford Mayor, Lauren Lavin The Blind Pig, Ian Cass, Forum of Private Businesses
  • Third Prize, Naturalmat LtoR, Ian Cass Forum of Private Business, Faye Ravenscroft, NaturalMat, Knutsford Mayor, Jessvinder Gill, Naturalmat
    Third Prize, Naturalmat LtoR, Ian Cass Forum of Private Business, Faye Ravenscroft, NaturalMat, Knutsford Mayor, Jessvinder Gill, Naturalmat
  • Best Small Window Morgan Edwards Fine Wines and Spirits L to R - Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Morgan Ward, Morgan Edwards Fine Wines, and Knutsford Mayor
    Best Small Window Morgan Edwards Fine Wines and Spirits L to R – Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Morgan Ward, Morgan Edwards Fine Wines, and Knutsford Mayor
  • Best Charity Shop Window, CAFT L to R Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Angie Greenway Caft Crew, Stephen Leigh, Volunteer, Knutsford Town Mayor
    Best Charity Shop Window, CAFT L to R Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Angie Greenway Caft Crew, Stephen Leigh, Volunteer, Knutsford Town Mayor

Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley said, ”Once again, the Christmas windows across our town centre have been nothing short of spectacular. It’s clear how much creativity, care, and hard work have gone into each display, with many business owners dedicating countless hours to bring a little extra magic to our streets. Every shop should feel incredibly proud of their contribution to the festive atmosphere that makes our town so special at this time of year.”

“Choosing the winners this year was no easy task. Each display reflected such effort and imagination, so the awards were decided by looking closely at both the craftsmanship and the overall festive impact. Congratulations to all our winners, and a heartfelt thank-you to every business for bringing such joy and Christmas spirit to our community.”

Pictured

Photos by Knutsford Town Council        

Photo 1 : First Prize, Cranford Café, L to R Phil Crook Cranford Cafe, Melanie Potts Cranford Cafe, Cllr Bryan Hartley, Sophie Ranfield Cranford Cafe, Ian Whiteside Cranford Cafe, Scarlet Squire Cranford Café and Kismet Singh Cranford Café.

Photo 2 : Second Prize, The Blind Pig, L to R – Adam Hilton The Blind Pig, Knutsford Mayor, Lauren Lavin The Blind Pig, Ian Cass, Forum of Private Businesses

Photo 3: Third Prize, Naturalmat LtoR, Ian Cass Forum of Private Business, Faye Ravenscroft, NaturalMat, Knutsford Mayor, Jessvinder Gill, Naturalmat

Photo 4 Best Small Window Morgan Edwards Fine Wines and Spirits L to R – Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Morgan Ward, Morgan Edwards Fine Wines, and Knutsford Mayor

Photo 5  Best Charity Shop Window, CAFT L to R Ian Cass, Forum of Private Business, Angie Greenway Caft Crew, Stephen Leigh, Volunteer, Knutsford Town Mayor

Elves, Santa and Knutsford Mayor, Cllr Bryan Hartley at Knutsford Light Switch On

Knutsford kicks off Christmas with festive lights switch on

Knutsford welcomed the start of the festive season on Saturday 15th November, as the town centre came alive with the annual Christmas Lights Switch On and Santa Parade. Residents and visitors gathered to enjoy an afternoon of festive entertainment, marking the official beginning of Christmas in Knutsford.

From 4pm, the build-up to the switch-on featured a vibrant programme of performances from Knutsford’s local primary schools, SMB Dance, and musician Ben Tavill, who entertained the growing crowds ahead of Santa’s arrival. After the Christmas lights were switched on, local band Instant Vintage took to the stage with a lively set of festive hits.

The Grinch and Elf on the Shelf at Knutsford Light Switch On
The Grinch and Elf on the Shelf at Knutsford Light Switch On
Santa and an Elf starting the parade.
Santa and an Elf starting the parade.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, this year’s lights were switched on by Knutsford Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley who was joined by Father Christmas, The Grinch, Elf on the Shelf and Knutsford Royal May Queen, Jemma Woolf to the delight of children and families. The switch-on followed a Santa Parade, led by the City of Chester Brass Band, with Santa greeting children along the way.

In a change from previous years, the Christmas Lights Switch On was separated from the Knutsford Christmas Market to create a more spacious and enjoyable environment for families.

Local resident Clare, who attended with her family, praised the new format, saying “it was much more pleasant and much safer. Previous years’ crowds have been awful, with young children getting squashed and prams unable to move. We actually got close to the stage to see one of our children dancing, which was a real bonus. I hope they do the same next year.”

Event Manager Laura Phillipson added: “We’re grateful to everyone who joined us to kick off Christmas in Knutsford. The new format helped create a calmer and more enjoyable atmosphere, and we’ll keep building on that as we plan future events. It’s wonderful to see the community embracing the celebrations and supporting our performers, traders and volunteers.”

Festivities will continue later this month as Princess Street, King Street and Silk Mill Street host the popular Knutsford Christmas Markets on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th November. The markets will showcase Cheshire’s finest artisan stalls, festive gifts and decorations, and a wide selection of high-quality food traders.

Visitors can look forward to highlights including John Collins Funfair outside the Lost & Found on Princess Street, a dedicated food trader section on Silk Mill Street, an array of artisan gift and food stalls and some festive street entertainment.

The Christmas Lights Switch On was generously sponsored by Piccolino, while this year’s Christmas tree has been sponsored by Speedy Freight.

Knutsford Town Council looks forward to welcoming everyone back for another magical festive weekend as the town continues its countdown to Christmas.