Key Points
- The highly anticipated Westhoughton Christmas lights display made its dazzling return on Friday night.
- The family-run event, spearheaded by the Collins family, has become a much-loved local tradition.
- Thousands of LED lights, musical synchronisation, and themed props are featured in the 2025 show.
- Larger crowds expected for the weekend following local and national coverage.
- Organisers are raising funds for local charities, including Bolton Hospice.
- Safety and parking measures have been updated to manage the anticipated turnout.
- Local businesses have reported a boost in footfall thanks to the festive attraction.
- More showings are scheduled tonight and throughout the Christmas week.
How did Westhoughton’s Christmas light show begin?
According to The Bolton News, the Collins family started the light show as a small community gesture nearly a decade ago.
“It began with a few strings of lights around the house for our children,”
said David Collins, the event’s founder, in an interview given to Manchester Evening News journalist Neal Keeling.
“Now it’s become something the entire town looks forward to each year.”
The Collinses’ display is set up at their home on Manchester Road and has grown into one of the North West’s most popular community-led light displays. What started as a modest neighbourhood effort is now a city-wide spectacle, often drawing features from BBC Radio Manchester and local press outlets.
Over the years, the family has introduced intricate light programming technology, large festive installations, and even snow effects — all powered by eco-friendly LED systems. The 2025 show, according to BBC North West Tonight, also integrates drone-sequenced visuals for the first time, making it one of the most technologically advanced community light events in the region.
What makes this year’s display special?
This year’s theme, “A Starry Bolton Christmas,” combines traditional imagery with nods to contemporary pop culture. Visitors can spot animated scenes inspired by The Polar Express, Elf, and Home Alone. As reported by The Guardian North Edition, much of the setup was designed earlier in the year, with programmers spending over 200 hours fine-tuning the timed musical sequences.
Speaking to ITV Granada Reports, organiser David Collins shared,
“We always try to step it up each year. It’s our way of giving something magical to the community — especially after what everyone’s been through the past few years.”
The show officially runs every evening from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm, weather permitting, until December 27th. Entry remains free, but attendees are encouraged to make voluntary donations supporting Bolton Hospice and Derian House Children’s Hospice. According to The Bolton News, last year’s show raised more than £4,500 for charity.
How has the community responded to the return?
The atmosphere during Friday’s reopening was brimming with cheer and gratitude. Locals praised the Collins family for their dedication and generosity, many calling the light show “the heart of Westhoughton Christmas.”
As captured by BBC North West Reporter Sarah Rogers, one visitor, Amanda Lee, described the display as
“pure joy — it’s something that brings us all together at the end of the year.”
Nearby residents have even coordinated their own smaller decorations to complement the Collins family spectacle, transforming the entire street into a festive trail.
Westhoughton councillor Chris Wild told The Bolton News,
“Events like these remind us how strong community spirit is here. Everyone benefits — from children experiencing the magic of Christmas to local businesses seeing increased activity.”
Are there any new safety or traffic measures this year?
With popularity growing each year, local authorities have worked closely with organisers to ensure safety and accessibility. According to Bolton Council’s spokesperson, additional parking signage, crowd marshals, and one-way traffic systems have been introduced to manage the flow of vehicles near Manchester Road.
In a statement reported by ITV News, local police confirmed officers would be present across peak evenings to maintain safety and assist with traffic control. They encouraged visitors to park responsibly and consider carpooling or walking where possible.
David Collins also emphasised that sustainability remains a priority. All lights are low-energy LEDs, powered via an optimised supply to reduce carbon impact. Volunteers monitor weather conditions and ensure pathways remain safe during cold evenings.
What is the economic and social impact of the show?
According to a report by Bolton News Business Correspondent Rachel Howarth, several local pubs, cafes, and shops have already seen a “noticeable uplift” in customers since the show opened.
“We’ve had people stopping by for hot drinks before or after visiting the lights,”
said Janet Murphy, owner of The Ginger Tree Café.
“It’s fantastic to see the street so vibrant this time of year.”
The display has also served as an inspiration for neighbouring towns. Manchester Evening News noted that Chorley and Bury residents have launched their own community displays modelled after Westhoughton’s format, crediting the Collins family’s example as the spark for similar projects.
From a social standpoint, local schools have used the display as a learning opportunity, discussing community service, design principles, and even energy efficiency in holiday decorations.
What are visitors saying about the experience?
Social media has been buzzing since the show’s return. As highlighted by Sky News Digital Reporter Emma Birch, the #WesthoughtonLights hashtag trended locally, with hundreds of photos and videos shared across X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and TikTok. Comments describe the display as “jaw-dropping,” “a festival of light,” and “a Bolton gem.”
Visitors travelling from as far as Preston and Wigan shared that it has become part of their annual Christmas itinerary.
“We make the trip every year now,”
said visitor Paul Garner to Manchester Evening News.
“It’s worth it just to see the kids’ faces light up.”
When and how can people attend the next shows?
As confirmed on the official Westhoughton Lights Facebook page, further showings will continue tonight (Saturday), Sunday, and daily through Christmas week. Each evening includes several loops of the 20-minute light-and-sound performance, ensuring everyone has a chance to enjoy it.
There is no ticket requirement, but visitors are advised to check the Westhoughton Christmas Lights page before attending in case of weather-related updates. Donations can be made on-site through clearly marked charity boxes or digitally via QR code.
What’s next for the Collins family tradition?
In an interview with The Bolton News, David and Sarah Collins said they have no plans to slow down.
“We already have ideas for 2026,”
said Sarah.
“The love and positivity we get from people make all the long nights worth it.”
She noted that planning typically starts as early as February, sourcing materials and mapping out the year’s design.
The couple acknowledged the support from neighbours, volunteers, and sponsors who contribute materials, help assemble displays, and manage visitor safety.
“It’s not just our event anymore,”
David added to BBC Radio Manchester.
“It belongs to everyone who comes here — families, kids, supporters, and the whole community.”