Countdown to the spectacular Swadlincote Christmas Lights Switch On

Swadlincote is set to twinkle and bask in the glow of the festive season with the switching on of the town’s Christmas lights.

Thousands of people are set to flock to the town to see it transformed into a winter wonderland on Friday, November 30.

Visitors from near and far can expect a wealth of market stalls, food, entertainment for all of the family, spectacular fireworks, mulled wine and free mince pies.

Those looking for gift inspiration will find it at the Christmas Craft Fair taking place from 10am to 8pm at Sharpe’s Pottery Museum, in West Street. Guests can tuck into food and drink, including delicious cakes, pick up jewellery, clothing, textiles, ornaments and much more besides.

Santa and his festive helpers will ski down the slope at Swadlincote Ski and Snowboard Centre, in Sir Herbert Wragg Way, at 3.30pm. There will be free gifts for the first 100 children, along with the chance to meet Poma the Penguin. Father Christmas can also be found in his grotto at Sharpe’s Pottery Museum’s Play Zone from 4pm to 7pm.

For those who like to fa-la-la along to a festive tune, the Delph Public Square,  local school children will be singing carols from 11am to 5pm before a packed programme of entertainment starts on the main stage.

The town’s night sky will be lit up with vibrant colours during the festive fireworks display from 7pm, before local singing sensation Kirby Frost, a contestant on ITV’s The Voice, pushes the switch to turn on the Christmas lights.

Cllr Michael Stanton, Chairman of South Derbyshire District Council, said:

“The Christmas lights switch-on is one of the biggest events in the South Derbyshire calendar and we all look forward to it year after year.

“2018 is set to be bigger and better than ever. It caters for all ages and promises to be a magical, memorable day and evening out for the whole family to enjoy

“We hope everyone joins us, from near and far, to mark the start of the festive season.”

Other unmissable entertainment includes Santa and his sleigh, fairground rides, live broadcasts from Touch FM and a Christmas Treasure Hunt.

Visitors can also keep warm with free mince pies, warm fruit punch and other goodies provided by Burton and South Derbyshire College catering students between 11am and 3pm.

For more information about this year's Christmas Lights Switch On please visit www.southderbyshire.gov.uk/christmas

20 November 2018