Ashington Town Council Announces Spectacular Christmas Light Switch-On Event
Ashington Town Council is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Christmas Light Switch-On event, set to dazzle residents and visitors alike on Thursday, 28th November 2024. This year’s celebration promises to be bigger and brighter than ever, featuring a captivating Lantern and Toy Parade alongside a host of festive activities for the whole family.
The event will take place from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM, centred around the YMCA on North View and extending onto Station Road. This magical evening is designed to kick off the holiday season in style, bringing the community together for an unforgettable celebration.
The festivities will commence at the YMCA, where local community groups and organizations will host a variety of free activities. Attendees can look forward to engaging in creative Christmas crafts and participating in fun holiday-themed games, all at no cost. These activities offer a perfect opportunity for families to get into the festive spirit while enjoying quality time together.
Adding to the yuletide atmosphere, Koast Radio will be on hand to provide a soundtrack of festive tunes throughout the event. The YMCA will also host performances by local talent, including a delightful Christmas showcase by Gladwin’s Ballet and Stage School and heartwarming carols from the Ashington and District Male Voice Choir, encouraging audience participation.
A highlight of this year’s event is the introduction of a spectacular Toy Parade, which will accompany the traditional Lantern Parade. From 3:30 PM, attendees can participate in a lantern-making workshop at the YMCA, preparing for the grand parade. At 5:15 PM, children will assemble for the parade, led by an impressive array of life-sized toy characters along Station Road, creating a truly magical procession.
No Christmas event would be complete without a visit from Santa Claus himself. Thanks to the Morpeth Lions, Father Christmas will make a special appearance on Station Road, arriving on his sleigh to meet and greet excited children and their families.
As the anticipation builds for the main event, Station Road will come alive with festive music. At approximately 5:45 PM, renowned crooner Paul Skerritt will take the stage, performing beloved holiday classics leading up to the eagerly awaited countdown to illuminate the town’s Christmas lights display.
Many local shops will extend their hours for the event, allowing visitors to enjoy some festive shopping. In the weeks following the switch-on, residents and visitors can participate in the popular Christmas Trail, featuring over 20 shops across Station Road, Woodhorn Road, Lintonville Terrace, and North Seaton Road. Additionally, local businesses will compete in a Christmas Window Display competition, adding to the town’s festive atmosphere.
For those eager to plan their evening, a detailed schedule of events and additional information can be found on the Ashington Town Council website at www.ashingtontowncouncil.gov.uk. Attendees can also access the council’s Events Page directly by scanning the QR code displayed on event posters throughout the town.
The Ashington Christmas Light Switch-On event is free to attend and open to all. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to make the most of all the activities on offer and to secure a good viewing spot for the parade and light switch-on.
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact: Sharon Parmely, Communication and Engagement Officer for Ashington Town Council 01670 624520 or email admin@ashingtontowncouncil.gov.uk
