Festive fun gets underway in Plymouth
Kicking off the festive fun are the traditional Christmas Lights switch-on ceremonies
Plymouth is preparing to put the sparkle into the Holiday Season with a programme of Christmas treats.
Kicking off the festive fun are the traditional Christmas Lights switch-on ceremonies.
The city centre will be illuminated first on Thursday this week (17 November), with the Christmas cheer spreading to the Barbican, Sutton Harbour and Waterfront two days later when they light up on Saturday (19 November).
Both events will have free, family-friendly entertainment and activities.
Steve Hughes, Chief Executive of Plymouth City Centre Company, said: “Our Christmas lights are always amazing and a real joy for everyone coming into the city centre. We know this is a tough time for everyone in the country but we want to encourage people to shop locally, whatever their spending power, and to really enjoy all that Plymouth has to offer this festive season.
“We hope they’ll come into the city centre, enjoy the lights and the whole festive experience, browse round our fantastic shops and maybe pop in for drinks or something to eat at one of our many fantastic cafes, bars and restaurants. Every pound spent locally makes a big difference, helping to put money back into the local economy.”
The excitement starts from 4pm on Thursday in The Piazza with live music, Christmas carols and popular festive songs from local groups and choirs.
Then the lights, supported by Morgan Sindall Construction, will be switched on between 6pm and 6.30pm.
The Barbican Christmas Lights switch-on event will feature free activities and entertainment from 12pm to 6pm on Saturday.
Children can visit Santa in his grotto and give him a wave as he travels across the water on the RNLI boat.
Local choirs and dance groups will perform on The Parade and Southside Street, and there will be Christmas-themed street performers, storytelling, rides, and stalls selling Christmas treats and gifts.
We're also told to look out for a festive bus on Southside Street, which will host the special guests switching on the Christmas lights at around 5.30pm.
Guests include the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Sue Dann and Plymouth’s local unsung Community Hero for 2022.
Jon Walton, Chief Executive of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, said: “The Barbican and waterfront offer a unique environment for a wonderful, atmospheric and completely unique Christmas experience".
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