MIDDLESBROUGH’S big Christmas Lights switch-on will take place on Thursday, December 3.
Severe weather meant a cancellation of the event on Sunday but partners have come together to put on a great show for the people of Middlesbrough.
Unfortunately it has not been possible to include the reindeer parade in the rescheduled event.
The town fairground in Centre Square will be open from 3pm-7pm and a Christmas market will be taking place in the town centre until Sunday, December 13.
For the big lights switch-on costumed characters will be in Centre Square from around 5.15pm and the stage programme will run from 5.30pm-6.30pm with the lights being turned on with a special appearance from Santa as the culmination of the event.
Heart North East Breakfast Show presenters Justin and Kelly will be joined on stage by rising local band Cattle & Cane. This is due to be their final performance in the North East this year.
The hosts have a series of festive activities planned including audience sing-alongs as well as the chance for one lucky audience member to win their £500 Christmas wish list live on stage.
Councillor Lewis Young, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “We are delighted to have been able to reschedule the event at such short notice and are grateful to everyone that is taking part for making it possible.
“The Christmas Lights Switch On is always hugely popular and I hope that everyone left disappointed by the weather on Sunday can come along and enjoy it on Thursday.”
Heart North East Breakfast Show presenter Justin Lockwood said: “I’m delighted we will still able to share the joy at Middlesbrough’s Christmas Lights Switch On. With the awful weather last weekend, and seeing how hard the council have worked to reschedule the celebrations for Thursday night, Kelly and I are truly honoured to be able to host the evening with everyone.
“We’ve got loads of entertainment planned on the night and someone in the audience will still have the chance to win a £500 Christmas Wish List with our Heart Angels. I can’t wait to see you all there.”
Cleveland Centre Manager Graeme Skillen said: “We are delighted to partner Middlesbrough Council for its Christmas programme for the second year running.
“The Centre Square Lights Switch On is always a great community event, officially kick-starting Christmas in the Boro and we’re delighted be involved.”
Members of the public are also being encouraged to make a night of it with many major retailers opening late and festive menus available across the town’s many restaurants.
