Great Harwood is Blondied for Christmas Extravaganza

It’s going to be a Christmas to remember in Great Harwood as hometown star Michelle Hendriks, lead singer of Blondied, returns to where it all began to headline this year’s Great Harwood Christmas Extravaganza on Saturday 13th December (12pm – 5:30pm).

Michelle has toured the world multiple times through her extensive career, and for the very first time, will bring her electrifying tribute to Debbie Harry and Blondie with her full band Blondied to Queen Street - in her hometown.

With hits like Heart of Glass, Atomic, Call Me and Maria, the band promise a show bursting with energy, nostalgia and festive cheer.

Michelle, who grew up in Great Harwood and attended Saint Bartholomew’s Primary School, has many fond memories of the town, from playing in Lowerfold Park and the War Memorial Park, to working her first jobs on Church Street at Centre Point Hair Salon and Girl Talk Cosmetics.

It was here she first discovered her passion for performing, joining local band Big World before touring the world and meeting her husband Phil Hendriks, frontman of punk band The Stiffs, while on tour in Germany.

Speaking ahead of her long-awaited homecoming performance, Michelle said: “It’s honestly such a special feeling to be coming back to Great Harwood, where it all began for me.

I have so many happy memories of growing up here, and to return as part of Blondied, performing for my hometown community at Christmas, is truly magical. I can’t wait to share this day with everyone.

“When the Great Harwood team reached out to me, I jumped at the chance and have kept it secret from friends and family, which hasn’t been easy.”

With their powerful live show and world-class musicianship, Blondied perfectly capture the energy and spirit of the original band.

The group’s reputation has taken them to major festivals such as Silverstone F1, Rewind, and Guilfest 2025, where audiences have been captivated by their dynamic performances and Michelle’s magnetic stage presence.

The Great Harwood Christmas Extravaganza promises an action-packed day of festive fun for all ages, hosted by local favourite Gavin Young. Joining Blondied on stage will be Kulturess, the electrifying duo blending rock, R&B and rap. Sisters Eliza Mai and Tabitha Jade Hayles were raised in Liverpool's thriving music scene and have played at some of the UK's most iconic venues and festivals, while both artists have also received acclaim from BBC Introducing Merseyside and BBC 1Xtra.

Charlii Hardcastle, one of the winners of the Accrington Xmas Factor will also take to the main stage, as well as performances from BCMT: Burnley College Musical Theatre, the Helen Green Academy of Dance, Halcyon Performing Arts, Christmas dancers and a magical Frozen sing-a-long for children.

The celebrations will begin with a spectacular Christmas procession from Towngate to the main stage, led by the Accrington Pipe Band and Great Harwood Rovers. Last year over 100 players took part from Great Harwood Rovers, all receiving a free selection box.

Families can enjoy a festive brass band, a Christmas funfair and a chance to meet Santa in his grotto, where free selection boxes will be available on a first come, first served basis.

Visitors are also encouraged to explore and support the town’s wonderful independent businesses, many of which will be joining in the Christmas spirit with special seasonal offers and displays.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, Queen Street will be lined with a fantastic range of food, drink and craft stalls throughout the day, perfect for grabbing a hot treat, a festive tipple or a unique handmade gift.

Children under 12 can also get creative at the Free Christmas Wreath Making Workshops running throughout the day (12pm – 6pm, 10 spaces per hour). Places can be booked here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/childrens-christmas-wreath-workshop-tickets-1904110027349

Great Harwood Library will be hosting a ‘make your own Christmas card’ workshop and Christmas Storytime session, with slots at 10:30am, 11am and 11:30am, with 15 spaces available for each half an hour session. To book, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/great-harwood-christmas-extravaganza-decorate-a-christmas-card-workshop-tickets-1933847884079

Councillor Kimberley Whitehead, deputy leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, said: “This is going to be a truly wonderful event for Great Harwood after the success of last year, there’s so much for families to enjoy, from incredible live music and performances to festive workshops, stalls and community fun.

“After last year’s fantastic event, we can’t wait to see everyone come together again to celebrate the magic of Christmas in the heart of the town.”

At 5:25pm, the event will culminate in a heartwarming Christmas sing-a-long followed by a dazzling display of sparklers, bringing a spectacular close to a day packed with festive joy, music and community spirit.

Learn more and stay up to date by following Great Harwood Events on social media.