Line-up announced for Glasgow's Christmas lights switch-on

It's being hosted by Clyde 1's George and Cassi

Author: Alice FaulknerPublished 15th Nov 2023
Last updated 15th Nov 2023

Glasgow is getting a first look at the star-studded line up which will be performing at this year's Christmas lights switch-on in George Square.

The annual Glasgow Loves Christmas event is returning on Sunday 19 November, marking the start of the city's festive celebrations.

Clyde 1 breakfast presenters, George Bowie and Cassi, will be hosting but we now know more about who will be headlining.

Entry gates to the square, in Cochrane Street and George Street, will open to ticket holders at 4.30pm.

Entertainment revealed

Simply Ariana – an Ariana Grande tribute act – will be the opening act, taking to the stage at 5pm.

Scottish country singer-songwriter Kevin McGuire will then grab the microphone before a Scottish Ballet performance of Cinders! and a crowd singalong.

Topping the bill is Glasgow’s very own Michelle McManus, who will performsher new single ‘Christmas Glow’, followed by appearances by Treasure Island cast members from the Pavilion Theatre.

READ MORE: George Bowie and Cassi to turn on Christmas lights in Glasgow.

Scottish TikTok star Nati Dreddd and the Soul Nation Choir will round off the evening. before the city’s Christmas lights will be switched on at 7.00pm.

The 10,600 people who have secured free tickets in this year’s ballot are advised to dress appropriately for the conditions.

Road closures

With Glasgow’s Christmas lights switch-on drawing thousands of visitors to the city centre, road closures and parking restrictions will be in place.

The north, east, south and west sides of George Square will be closed to traffic from 6.00am-11.59pm on Sunday 19 November, along with the following routes:

Anchor Lane, Cochrane Street, Dundas Lane, Dundas Street, George Street (between Shuttle Street and George Square), Hanover Street, John Street, Martha Street, Nelson Mandela Place, North Frederick Street, North Hanover Street, South Frederick Street, West George Street, Ingram Street, Queen Street and St Vincent Place.

Bus disruption

No vehicles will be permitted to wait or load from 4.00pm on Saturday 18 November until 11.59pm on Sunday 19 November in Anchor Lane, Cochrane Street, Dundas Lane, Dundas Street, George Square, George Street, Hanover Street, Ingram Street, Montrose Street, Nelson Mandela Place, North Frederick Street, North Hanover Street, Queen Street, St Vincent Place, South Frederick Street and West George Street.

Bus lanes in North Hanover Street (northbound, between George Square and Cathedral Street), Nelson Mandela Place (between West Nile Street and West George Street) and Ingram Street (eastbound, between Queen Street and South Hanover Street) will be closed from 6.00am-11.59pm on Sunday 19 November.

'Highlight of the events calendar'

Glasgow’s Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren, said: “The Christmas lights switch-on brings families and friends together for a wonderful night of festive fun and is a highlight of Glasgow’s events calendar.

"There’s so much to see and do in Glasgow this festive season, from the Winterfests in George Square and St Enoch Square to the annual Santa Dash – there really is something for everyone to enjoy.”

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