Published Tuesday 5 November 2019 at 10:06
A jam-packed programme of local talent is set to wow crowds alongside special guest singer songwriter Simon Webbe at this year’s Darwen Christmas lights switch-on.
Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council is delighted to announce that Darwen Town Centre Christmas Light Switch-on 2019 will begin on Saturday, November 16, from 4pm until 7pm in the all- new Darwen Market Square.
The events will be sponsored by Duckworth’s Estate Agents, who are investing in Darwen with the opening of their brand new Sales and Lettings Office within the Old Job Centre next year.
This year local talent will be put in the spotlight; Darwen School of Music are providing amazing acts such as Jacob Reddy, Bella Dearden, Paul Stuart Davies, Jason Kenny and Liam Allman.
Hosted by Radio DJ’s Joel Ross and Rob Ellis, you will get to see special guests such as former X-Factor contestant Emilia, the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, plus the dancers and cast members from Pinocchio, this year’s pantomime at Darwen Library Theatre.
Father Christmas will bring cheer to the stage before appearance of special guest Simon Webbe, best known as member of boy band Blue before his solo career, ready for an explosive finale of fireworks and music.
There is plenty more happening on the night. Catch the Greatest Circus and Interactive Theatre Show from 3pm inside Darwen Market. See the stilt walkers and fire dancers make their way on to Darwen Market Square from 4.30pm, or take a spin on the fairground rides and check out the outdoor stalls.
Cllr Phil Riley, Executive Member for Regeneration said;
This is a popular event that is traditionally well supported and we expect this year to be no exception. This year the focus has been on making the event a platform to showcase our local talent alongside the headline acts which it looks set to do.
The event marks the start of a packed Christmas programme in Darwen that people can enjoy whilst they carry out their Christmas shopping and other festive activities!
There will be more activities taking place at Darwen Market in the run up to Christmas. Each Saturday there will be family Christmas Craft activities in Darwen Market and school choirs will perform on Fridays in December. Santa’s grotto will open all day on Saturday, December 7, 14 and 21.
This year the Market will be open late on Wednesday, December 18 until 8pm. It will also be open on Sunday, December 22, 10am – 3pm. Customers can expect complimentary festive food and drink on these dates.
For more information please visit www.darwentowncentre.co.uk.
Details of Blackburn’s Christmas lights switch-on will be announced soon.