Taunton's Christmas lights display, which can be seen throughout the town centre, features two large yellow-lit reindeer, starry lights and snowflakes adorned from building to building, and more - but how much does it cost?
Following a Freedom of Information Request (FOI), the Somerset County Gazette can officially confirm how much money was spent to light up the town from head to toe.
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This year, Taunton Town Council spent £44,750.23 on the Christmas lights in Taunton, including the lights on the tree.
This increase includes energy costs previously paid for by Somerset Council and an additional £7,000 contribution to the Winterfest Team to help deliver Winterfest 2025.
In 2024, Christmas cost the council £40,540.46 - an increase from £30,403.21 spent in 2023.
Jointly turned on by Somerset cricket star, Lewis Gregory and Taunton Mayor Cllr Martin Strauss at WinterFest 2025, this year's lights switch-on saw thousands of spectators turn up to Fore Street on November 23. Last year, the event was cancelled due to fears over Storm Bert conditions.
Organised by Ben De-Vey’s Family Fun Fair and sponsored by Taunton Town Council, visitors were treated to free family entertainment, including Christmas markets, live performances, Glow and Gift workshops, and more.
Speaking ahead of this year's Christmas lights switch-on in Somerset's county town, Mayor of Taunton, Councillor Martin Straus, said: “The Christmas lights switch-on is such a special moment, bringing the whole town together to celebrate.
"After last year’s cancellation due to severe weather, we’re excited for a bigger, brighter, and even more magical event this year.
"We hope everyone enjoys exploring the shops, meeting friends, and soaking up the festive atmosphere while supporting our wonderful local businesses."
The council have since launched an online survey asking local residents their views on the Taunton Christmas light switch-on.
The have asked what residents value most and what should be avoided when it comes to the light switch-on event.
To fill out the survey visit https://www.taunton-tc.gov.uk/the-council/governance-democracy/public-consultations/.
On the survey site, it says: "There have also been calls from some local businesses to separate the switch on from Winterfest and hold it on a Saturday instead.
"They feel that sort of change would have a real impact on footfall patterns, staffing, local trade and how the town feels in the run up to Christmas. We need to hear from residents to balance those views."
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