Penarth’s annual Christmas Lights Switch-On returns on Sunday, 16 November 2025, with acclaimed actor Timothy Spall OBE confirmed as the special guest to flip the switch at 6pm.
The event, running from 3pm to 7pm, promises a day of festive cheer and community celebration. Live music featuring performances from Rock Choir, the Vale of Glamorgan Brass Band, Monico, and Lady Nade. Adding to the festive atmosphere, Kitsch N Sync will entertain visitors with energetic walkabout performances, while children can enjoy rides and free craft activities from Eggseeds, Pedal Emporium, and Penarth Library.
The lights will be switched on at 6pm by Timothy Spall and Penarth Town Mayor Cllr Emma Richards, marking the official start of Penarth’s Christmas season.
You could say that Timothy Spall has found a new affinity for Penarth, having filmed in and around the town for the BBC’s Death Valley. Written and created by Paul Doolan, Death Valley follows the unlikely crime-solving partnership between eccentric national treasure John Chapel (Spall), a retired actor and star of the fictional detective TV show Caesar, and disarming Welsh detective sergeant Janie Mallowan (Gwyneth Keyworth).
Timothy is perhaps best known for his role as Peter Pettigrew in the Harry Potter film series, and his diverse film work includes: Mr Turner, Spencer, The Last Bus, The King’s Speech, The Damned United, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Pierrepoint, All Or Nothing, Lucky Break, Topsy Turvy, Secrets and Lies. TV credits include: Denial, Hatton Garden, Summer of Rockets, Fungus the Bogeyman, The Enfield Haunting, Blandings, The Syndicate, The FattestMan In Britain, Oliver Twist, The Street, Bodily Harm, Auf Wiedersehen Pet, Perfect Strangers, Shooting the Past, Our Mutual Friend and his own documentary Timothy Spall: Somewhere at Sea.
The Christmas Lights Switch-On is a free, family-friendly celebration designed to bring the local community together and highlight the town’s festive spirit.
For further information, and updates, keep an eye on the Penarth Town Council social media.
Hero photo: BBC Studios/Simon Ridgway
