Newbury Christmas lights switch-on planned
Newbury Business Improvement District (BID) has announced the town's annual Christmas lights switch-on will be returning on Saturday November 19, writes Kyra Radley.
Last year’s switch-on was a big success with more than 35,000 people attending.
Families and residents in the area are once again being invited to Newbury town centre to kick-start the festive season.
The event has sponsorship from Newbury Town Council and aims to celebrate the talent of local communities.
This year visitors will see live music and entertainment throughout the town centre, as well as a Christmas market on Northbrook Street.
The switch-on was enjoyed by families last year, with children particularly excited by the appearance of novelty characters including Frozen princesses and the Grinch.
This year’s entertainment also promises to cater to families, with free activities, more character meet and greets, a Santa’s grotto in Parkway Shopping, and small fairground rides for children to enjoy.
Newbury BID’s operations manager Alison Drummond said: “Our Christmas Lights Switch-On Festival in 2021 was undoubtedly the best Newbury has ever experienced and we are thrilled to deliver this festive event again for the town this year.
“We are strongly encouraging all visitors to take full advantage of the shops and eateries across town that will be open for business on the day and advise pre-booking at the local restaurants in advance, as last year many venues were fully booked prior to the event.
“We are so thankful to all the organisations providing their services to help create a truly special and jam-packed day in Newbury and would like to give a special thanks to Newbury Town Council for their contribution toward the cost of the Christmas lights switch-on event.”
The BID is seeking people to become involved on the day. It is also asking for stallholders and entertainment acts to apply by visiting www.visitnewbury.org.uk/take-part
Those wanting to find out more about the day, can access a list of events at https://visitnewbury.org.uk/enjoy/events/
