East 17 light up the #AmazingAccrington Christmas Lights Switch On in town's biggest ever event

Over 15,000 visitors poured into Accrington town centre on Thursday evening to celebrate the start of the festive season at the #AmazingAccrington Christmas Lights Switch On.

Headliners and 90s pop legends East 17 electrified the atmosphere with an unforgettable performance, featuring their iconic hit “Stay Another Day”, which they dedicated on stage to Freeman of Hyndburn Zack Kerr, who they also met backstage after the show.

In a nod to their famous music video, the band delighted the audience by throwing white coats into the crowd, adding to the magic of the night.

Sponsored by Hyndburn Borough Council, the event was organised by Scott Dawson Advertising, delivering a £1m stage and bringing 90s Christmas pop royalty East 17 to East Lancashire for the biggest event Accrington has ever seen.

Following East 17’s show-stopping set, the skies over Accrington erupted in a dazzling fireworks display. The display came moments after the Christmas Lights Switch On countdown, including the Mayor of Hyndburn, representatives from Hyndburn Borough Council, and performers from the evening’s entertainment line-up.

The event delivered a full evening of festive fun for families, with attractions and activities spread across the town centre.

Inside the Arndale, visitors explored craft and charity stalls, enjoyed late-night shopping and took part in a special meet and greet with Accrington Stanley and Accrington Stanley Women players at the OASST shop, complete with a football giveaway. There was also live music from Accrington Xmas Factor star Caitlyn Holt.

Broadway and Union Street were transformed into a vibrant hub of street food and drinks, alongside a lively funfair. Buddy the Elf stopped for endless “elfies” with fans, while Santa’s free grotto, sponsored by Vita Accrington and Proctor Process Plant Ltd, welcomed excited children with complimentary selection boxes. Young visitors also enjoyed meeting Frozen favourites Anna and Elsa.

The main stage, compered by Stephen Lowe, hosted the biggest school choir yet, with over 400 local children performing together.

This was followed by a rousing Frozen sing-a-long, special appearances from Accrington Stanley and Accrington Stanley Women players who kicked free footballs into the crowds, dance showcases from the Helen Green Academy of Dance, Burnley College Musical Theatre and Christmas dancers featuring the Grinch, as well as an incredible set from R&B, rock and rap sister duo Kulturess.

Zoltar, winner of the Accrington Xmas Factor, also took to the stage before the highly anticipated East 17 finale.

Murray Dawson, chair of #AmazingAccrington, said: “What an amazing night for Accrington. To see our biggest crowd ever was a bit daunting with thousands of people filling the town centre, and it was great to see them all enjoying the fantastic entertainment and coming together to celebrate the start of Christmas. The Scott Dawson Advertising team delivered yet again!

“It was Accrington’s biggest event yet and we are proud to have delivered an event of such magnitude, which included a £1million stage and one of the best Christmas acts you could ask for in East 17.

“East 17 were phenomenal, the performances from local groups were outstanding, and the atmosphere was electric from start to finish. It was a night this town will remember.”

Councillor Kimberley Whitehead, deputy leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, said: “We were incredibly proud to sponsor such a magnificent night for Accrington. The turnout was exceptional and it was wonderful to see so many families enjoying everything on offer.

“From live music and performances to the free Santa’s grotto, street food, funfair and fireworks, there was something for absolutely everyone. This event showcased the very best of our community.”

For more coverage from the event, visit www.amazingaccrington.co.uk and by following #AmazingAccrington on social media.