Thousands of spectators attended this year’s Carlisle Christmas Lights Switch-On.
Lights have been installed across Carlisle’s city centre, with decorations focused on Scotch Street, English Street, Castle Street, Fisher Street, and the Greenmarket.
The event was 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, was held on Sunday 16 November, between 3pm and 5.30pm, outside the Old Town Hall.
It was 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, was the headliner and the event was hosted by Britain’s Got Talent Semi-Finalist and Singing Magician, Lewis Fuller.
A variety of local concessions offered visitors plenty of choice for food, drink, and festive treats. These included WafflingOn and Shake Waffle & Roll, Aupa Street Food, Cumbria Whippyman. Hollybank Farm and Rolling Pub Co. Aura Body offered up 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:
“The Carlisle Christmas Lights Switch-On attracted thousands of visitors to the city. I’d like to thank everyone involved in making the event a success and for bringing some sparkle to the city centre.
“There are some wonderful festive events being organised in Cumberland this Christmas - including Taste Cumbria in Cockermouth and Carlisle’s Christmas Market. Please visit events in the Cumberland area and shop local. Our businesses need your support.”
To find out about events in your area visit www.discovercarlisle.co.uk and www.westernlakedistrict.com
Photo Credit: Stuart Walker