The final preparations are underway for Carlisle’s Christmas Lights Switch-On event on Sunday 16 November.
Thousands of lights are being installed across Carlisle’s city centre, with decorations focused on Scotch Street, English Street, Castle Street, Fisher Street, and the Greenmarket. This will be one of the first major events to take place in the newly revitalised city centre, following a £5.5 million UK Government investment that has refreshed more than 5,000 square metres of space.
The sparkling spectacular, organised by Cumberland Council, will be held between 3pm and 5.30pm outside the Old Town Hall.
The Christmas Lights Switch-On event will also be a showcase of local community groups and performers including Razzamataz Carlisle, Northern Heights Dance School, Norman Street Primary School, Carlisle Dance Academy, Longtown Primary School and local singer, Claudia Page.
Pop sensation AMELLE, best known as a member of the multi-platinum-selling group Sugababes, will be headlining this year’s Carlisle Christmas Lights Switch-On. The event will be hosted by Britain’s Got Talent Semi-Finalist and Singing Magician, Lewis Fuller, promising an afternoon full of sparkle, music, and magic.
The star-studded Christmas Lights Switch-On will provide a packed family entertainment programme, to suit all ages.The switch-on will take place at 5pm.
A variety of local concessions will be joining the Christmas Light Switch-On, offering visitors plenty of choice for food, drink, and festive treats. Guests can enjoy sweet options from WafflingOn and Shake Waffle & Roll, sample delicious food from Aupa Street Food, and try traditional favourites from Cumbria Whippyman. Hollybank Farm will provide seasonal specialties, while Rolling Pub Co will be on hand with refreshments. Aura Body Art will be offering face painting to add a fun, festive touch to the celebrations.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
"Carlisle’s Christmas Lights Switch-On is a wonderful way to bring our community together. With dazzling lights, local community performers, and a fantastic headline act, it will be a magical start to the festive season for everyone.”
Other events planned in the Cumberland area include Christmas events in Carlisle, Cockermouth, Whitehaven and Keswick.
Carlisle will also host three Saturday Christmas markets this year, alongside the usual Friday markets. They’ll take place on 29 November, 6 December, and 13 December, with live music, a festive bar, fairground rides, and local stalls offering seasonal gifts.
To find out about events in your area visit www.discovercarlisle.co.uk