Ilkeston Christmas Lights switch-on
Seasonal sights, Santa, fairground fun and festive songs . . . just some of the family entertainment lined up for the usual Christmas Lights switch-on event in Ilkeston on Friday 1 December.
The Mayor of Erewash, Councillor Mary Hopkinson, will ‘light up’ the town to officially launch the Christmas season, during a fab and free night of fun for people of all ages.
The celebration event will take place between 5.30pm-8.30pm in Ilkeston town centre, with the Mayor switching on the lights at 7pm after which the sky will explode in a riot of colour as fireworks add to the magical festivities.
There will be traditional music and songs with Johnny Victory along with performances from Ilkeston Brass Band – while the festive fun will also include a Christmas Market and ‘reindeer walkabout’ characters.
Erewash Museum also joins the free festivities with a fun Dickensian theme to celebrate Victorian Christmas traditions and customs.
A cook will be demonstrating a range of recipes and foods that were traditional to a Victorian Christmas. Visitors to the Museum will also be entertained by a beautiful Winter Fairy as she thrills the audience with her skilful contact juggling, as well as holding audiences spellbound with her stunning costume that literally lights up.
The Museum will be open during the evening giving visitors the opportunity to see exhibitions or purchase Christmas gifts from its shop, while the Old Stable Tea Room will be serving refreshments. A traditional hot chestnut seller will be in the museum grounds with an old favourite.
Councillor Mike Wallis, Erewash Borough Council’s Lead Member for Culture and Leisure, says:
“As the countdown to Christmas 2017 is underway we look forward to another night of light, music and entertainment. This event is a firm family favourite that brings everyone together to welcome the festive season and a great opportunity for us to celebrate all that our town has to offer.”
