Lutterworth Christmas Lights Switch On 2017

We couldn't have asked for better weather to hold this year's Christmas Lights Switch-On event. It was a gloriously sunny and sharp winter's day and we were overwhelmed by the sheer number of you who came out to enjoy the festivities.

The Christmas Market stalls were relocated to various locations throughout the Town centre and they opened up proceedings at 3.30pm.

The evening began with Santa riding through the town centre on his sleigh with his own private escort, Olaf! In his grotto, Santa attracted a huge crowd of children, all eager to tell him what they would like for Christmas. Just next door to the grotto, Lutterworth Town Band entertained passers by in the Memorial Gardens.

The funfair was again a major attraction whilst Harborough FM kicked off the on stage entertainment (sponsored by Gazeley UK Ltd). They warmed up the crowds and introduced the school choirs and local recording artists, who each sang their favourite Christmas songs to the delight of the huge audience. Many of the proud parents of the children performing could not take the smile of their faces before three of our local retailers basked in the glory of winning the Best Illuminated (All Wrapped Up), Best Dressed (ISHKA) and Most Innovative (Age Concern Lutterworth & District) shop window competitions – their hampers kindly donated by Waitrose.

The Lutterworth Town Mayor, Councillor Mike Perks and his Consort were on stage to switch on the Christmas lights, which was followed by a spectacular fireworks display (sponsored by Hammonds Automotive), greeted with ooohs and ahhhs from the vast crowd gathered in the Town Hall square.

Throughout the evening hot mulled wine was enjoyed in Lutterworth Christmas mugs whilst there was also an opportunity to do a spot of late night Christmas shopping in the shops that had stayed open in the town. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service brought along their fire engine, much to the delight of the children who were allowed to have a sit in the drivers seat.

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end and so that was it for another year. The lights are shining and everyone went home happy, with us all looking forward to the next big event, Christmas Day!

Lutterworth Town Council would like to thank all the local businesses who sponsored the event and donated their time and money to ensure the evening was a great success. We would like to particularly thank Hammonds Automotive who sponsored the firework display this year and Gazeley UK Ltd who sponsored the stage. Also the event could not happen without the support of the many volunteer marshals so a very special thank you to everyone who helped as without them this community event could not take place.