West Bridgford’s free Christmas Lights Switch On returns on Saturday November 19 from 10am until 5pm for a fun packed day full of live music including a special performance from ITV’s The Voice star Mark Howard, food, drink and gift market, street theatre entertainment and a firework spectacular!
The seasonal festivities will take place on Central Avenue in the town throughout the day ahead of the big countdown to the lights turn on at 5pm by Mayor of Rushcliffe Cllr Tina Combellack, followed by a grand finale of low noise fireworks and LED freestyle performers.
ITV’s The Voice finalist from Nottinghamshire Mark Howard is confirmed to perform on stage from 4pm. Local athlete Jonty Bayliss is back hosting the main stage and there will be variety of family favourites including local choirs, community groups and a resident DJ throughout the day.
For all the latest on the event visit www.rushcliffe.gov.uk/christmasactivities
The food and gift market will showcase a selection of over 40 of the region’s and Borough’s finest designers and producers, offering a chance to buy a range of seasonal treats to put a smile on the face of a friend or loved one.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Communities and Climate Change Cllr Abby Brennan joined singer Mark Howard and Abi Dutton from event sponsors National Ice Centre on Central Avenue and shared excitement for the eagerly anticipated event.
Cllr Brennan said: “This annual event is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit! It’s a fantastic day for residents across the Borough to enjoy an array of free entertainment and indulge in festive treats.
“We’re also looking forward to our firework display for the finale which will be less noise but no less spectacular, in line with the Council’s wider environmental priorities to protect those affected by louder fireworks.
“This year, we are delighted to welcome Nottinghamshire’s Mark Howard who was a finalist on ITV’s primetime show The Voice!”
Mark added: “I’m really excited to be a part of West Bridgford’s light switch on! It’s the first big local event for me since the competition.
“I’ve had incredible support in Nottinghamshire and I can’t wait to see everyone who’s supported me throughout The Voice.
“Christmas is a fantastic time of the year and this will be a wonderful way to start the festive season.”
Abi is National Ice Arena Marketing Executive and said: “The National Ice Centre is very happy to be sponsoring the West Bridgford Light Switch On and to be involved with such a festive event so close to us in Nottingham.
“Christmas skating at the National Ice Centre has been a tradition for many people in the area over the years and we’re glad that this event will launch the Christmas season in style!
“We have a fantastic Christmas skating schedule this year which begins on Saturday November 26 and runs throughout the season until Sunday January 8. We will also be getting a very special visit from Santa and his elves at our magical grotto on selected dates in December!
“Nottingham is a wonderful place to be at Christmas and we can’t wait to see what this year has in store!”