Published Thursday 25 November 2021 at 10:46
Popular choirmaster and broadcaster Gareth Malone will be appearing as a very special guest at Blackburn’s Christmas Lights Switch-On event this Saturday, November 27.
Gareth has been filming in the town for a documentary due to be aired on BBC Two in the run up to Christmas. As part of the show, he will be hosting a special Christmas singalong and helping to host the whole event which starts at 2pm on Saturday on King William Street.
Gareth will then lead the countdown to the Christmas Lights Switch-On at 6pm, with the help of The Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Cllr Derek Hardman.
Pop Up Entertainment’s amazing festive stage shows will be performed three times during the afternoon – 2.35pm, 4pm and 5.35pm (finale show) and from 2pm there will be brilliant performances throughout the afternoon from King George’s Hall’s panto cast, Katrina’s Dance Academy, and DJs from Blackburn Youth Zone.
The Christmas lights will be switched on at 6pm on Saturday, culminating in an amazing fireworks and pyrotechnic display choreographed to music.
In addition to the Christmas Light’s Switch-On, there will be plenty more to do in the town centre. Saturday will mark the launch of Light the Night: The Snowman™️ and The Snowdog brick model trail – 16 illuminated brick models located around the town centre.
There will also be a book signing by Christina Gabbitas author of ‘Believe in the Magic of Blackburn town centre’ book in The Mall (former Yours Clothing shop), and Festival of Light lantern making workshops in the creative spaces shop opposite the Town Hall.
Catherine Price, Blackburn town centre BID manager, said:
Following on from last year’s multi-award nominated campaign, this year the Christmas events in Blackburn promise to be even more magical.
We have taken the opportunity to spread out the festive programme to bring as much joy as possible to visitors this Christmas. We truly hope Blackburn town centre will become a destination for families to visit this festive season and have a magical and memorable time.