City lights switch-on will begin the festive season
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is getting ready to bring some festive sparkle to the district with the annual Christmas Lights Switch-On event in Newry next Thursday.
The much-loved celebration offers families the chance to come together, enjoy free entertainment and mark the beginning of the festive season.
The event also plays an important part in supporting the local economy by drawing in people, boosting footfall and encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy everything local shops, cafés, restaurants and hospitality businesses have to offer in the busy run-up to Christmas.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, said the Christmas Lights Switch-On was a “wonderful opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate the start of the festive season”.
He explained: “These evenings bring people together at a time of year that can feel different for everyone and they help create busy, welcoming town centres that benefit our local economy.”
Festivities begin in Newry on Thursday, November 20, when Marcus Square will be filled with festive fun from 6pm to 8pm, with family-friendly activities, live music from Sugartown Road, and a magical performance from Anna and Elsa, the much-loved Disney princesses from Frozen.
Evora Hospice will add to the excitement with their annual Santa Dash taking place before Father Christmas and the vice-chairperson arrive to switch on the lights at 7.30pm.
This year’s switch-on coincides with the opening of the Newry Christmas Market on Hill Street, offering festive stalls, live entertainment, seasonal food and drink and family activities from November 20 to December 21.
Councillor Campbell added: “There’s no better way to start the Christmas season than celebrating with your local community.”
Follow @visitmourne or go to https://www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/christmas/christmas-lights-switch-on-events for more details.