Jingle bells! Banbridge has it all wrapped up this Christmas

We might not be able to guarantee a white Christmas but you can be sure of a hamper full of festive fun and seasonal cheer as Father Christmas and a host of other characters and entertainers come to Banbridge Town Centre on Friday 30 November for the annual Christmas lights switch-on event.

Starting at 6.30pm the town centre will be transformed into a winter wonderland of free family fun to celebrate the countdown to Christmas.

It won’t be such a silent night as the Cool FM Roadshow, featuring local DJ Gareth Stewart will have you rocking around the Christmas tree with a host of festive favorites as well as offering the chance of winning some great spot prizes.

For the first time ever the The Cut will be converted into a fabulous outdoor cinema screening a selection box of seasonal family films certain to give you an inner glow, but remember to wrap up warm as you don’t want Jack Frost nipping at your nose.

At 7pm the local clergy will lead the traditional Carol Service at the Christmas Tree which will be followed by Council Chairman, Councillor Junior McCrum lighting up the Christmas tree in the heart of the town.

The true highlight of the evening will be the arrival of Santa. Bringing a sack full of Christmas cheer and a hearty Ho! Ho! Ho!, the jolly man in red will be meeting with the local children to find out what they want for Christmas and just who’s been naughty or nice!

While you’re in the town centre look out for Rudi the Reindeer hiding in the local shop windows as part of Banbridge Chamber of Commerce’s ‘Win Christmas for free’ competition, from 6pm to 9pm. Check participating shops for details.

The Christmas spirit will spread throughout the district with the following towns and villages also holding special Christmas switch on events.

Dromore - Saturday 24 November, 12noon; Kinallen - Saturday 24 November, 6.30pm; Rathfriland - Saturday 1 December, 6.30pm; Annaclone - Sunday 2 December, 5.15pm; Gilford - Wednesday 5 December, 7pm; Laurencetown - Saturday 8 December, 3pm; Scarva - Saturday 8 December, 7pm; Leitrim - Saturday 8 December, 8.30pm; Massford/Finnis - Friday 14 December, 7pm; Seapatrick - Friday 14 December, 8pm.

So why not have yourself a merry little Christmas and prepare for the happy holidays in Banbridge District.

For further information contact Banbridge District Council Leisure and Development Department on T: 4066 0605.