Thousands enjoy Burnley's Christmas Lights Switch-On

Thousands of people flocked to Burnley on Saturday 19th November to enjoy the town’s Christmas Lights Switch-On event.

Delivered in a partnership between Burnley Business Improvement District (BID), Burnley Council, Charter Walk and Burnley Markets, there was festive fun at every turn as visitors soaked up the magical atmosphere and enjoyed the yuletide entertainment.

Funfair rides got the day underway on St James’s Street and the party vibe continued thanks to walkabout characters and an epic stage show which featured performances from the Ice King, Burnley Youth Theatre, Burnley Dance School and Louby Lou.

Father Christmas was of course in town too and he was joined by a Snowman and Reindeer who helped him to spread festive cheer.

Next the crowds were captivated by the Ice Queen as the day headed towards its finale before artificial snow was released as the lights were switched on.

Christmas music then rang out to send all of the attendees home with a seasonal spring in their step. 

Burnley BID project manager Andrew Dean was in the town centre on event day and he was thrilled to see so many smiling faces.

“Alongside our partners we wanted to transform Burnley into a winter wonderland for the day and spread Christmas cheer to kickstart the festive season in style,” said Andrew.

“The previous two years were severely impacted due to the pandemic which meant it was lovely to see so many people in the town centre enjoying the activities that had been laid on and supporting our local businesses too.

“Saturday was just the start of this year’s festivities though and there is still so much to look forward to including the arrival of the Ice Rink in the week before Christmas. Make sure you head over to the Discover Burnley website to find out more.”

Andy’s sentiments were echoed by Councillor Mark Townsend, Burnley Council's executive member for economy and growth, who said: "It was great to see Burnley town centre buzzing with crowds and excitement. The event was a huge success and put smiles on a lot of faces, both young and old.”

While Debbie Hernon, Charter Walk’s centre manager, added: “We had so much fun spreading the Christmas cheer to the shoppers of Burnley on Saturday afternoon with the Light Switch On. Community spirit is of utmost importance to us here at Charter Walk, so we are extremely happy to be able to be part of such a festive event!”

The Christmas fun in Burnley continues over the coming weeks with a range of events in the town centre and the Ice Rink running from Saturday 17th – Friday 23rd December. Head to Discover Burnley for all the details you need: https://discoverburnley.co.uk/christmas-in-burnley/.