Newcastle-under-Lyme BID Announce Light Up Castle Line Up for Sunday’s Switch On
Newcastle-under-Lyme will come alive this Sunday 26th November as the BID bring Christmas to the town with the highly anticipated Light Up Castle Christmas event.
The festivities will commence at 12pm, taking place in the heart of the town outside The Guildhall on High Street. The main stage will set the scene for an afternoon of entertainment, featuring performances from a variety of dance and performing arts schools, including Shine Academy, students from NSCG Performing Arts, and The Songloft.
As the day progresses, the spotlight will shine on pop duo Luking for Lucy, followed by an extraordinary performance from over 50 singers as part of the renowned Rock Choir. At 5:15pm, the stage will come alive as Dan Budd as Robbie Williams asks that you let him entertain you!
Nominees from the Child of Courage, Carer of the Year, and Future Star categories from Your Heroes Awards will join the Mayor Councillor Simon White to illuminate Newcastle-under-Lyme with the switch-on of the Christmas lights.
The event will come to a close with a set from local music scene favourite, Levi Knapper, starting at 6:30pm.
This year, the traditional fireworks display has been replaced by a spectacular laser show, a decision inspired by environmental considerations and a commitment to wildlife preservation.
The Business Improvement District (BID) has collaborated with various organisations to ensure a full day of activities.
In addition to the main stage performances, the Castle Artisan Market will host over 40 artisan traders on The Stones, offering a delightful selection of crafts and gifts. Local food street vendors, including Hamilton Bay, and businesses like Crossways and The Clubhouse, will serve delicious treats and beverages.
Attendees can also participate in a free lantern-making workshop by B Arts on the Ironmarket, where they are invited to create lanterns for the upcoming Newcastle Lantern Parade that will be held on December 2nd. Free craft activities for children and letter-writing to Santa will add to the festive cheer.
There will also be a visit from Santa and his elf, fairground rides, face painting and opportunities to meet and greet Elsa and Anna.
Deb Hilditch of Newcastle Common by Appetite says:
“Appetite will have their typically fun offering welcoming people back to Newcastle Common in a new location, in The Lancaster Building (just opposite Boots), with activities to find out what you would like to see in the new space, a chance to visit our extraordinary library, and some badge making to celebrate anything you like, as well as a giant illuminated, moving snail just outside Café Nero. Come and see us, chat to our staff and volunteers, take part and enjoy the fun! Newcastle Common will be open from 11am until the lights switch on in the town centre, with Luma, our beautiful illuminated snail by Air Giants from 1pm onwards.”
The event will be hosted by Dan Townley from 6 Towns Radio and Lucas Yeomans from BBC Radio Stoke, with the added excitement of a chance to win £1000 in gift vouchers to be spent in the local area.
BID Manager Charlotte Pearce says:
“2023 will see the BID #LightupCastle for the 8th year and host a fantastic festive day out for the people of Newcastle-under-Lyme. As well as being an opportunity for the community to come together and have an enjoyable day out with family and friends, from a commercial perspective, the Christmas period is such an important time for our high streets and local businesses.
It’s important to note that this fantastic event and the festive lighting would not be possible without the amazing businesses in Newcastle-under-Lyme. Since 2015, BID Levy Payers have funded Newcastle’s Christmas lights, decorations, tree and switch on events, with over 650 metres of lighting being installed each year – that’s 65,000 lights!
We’re asking people to show their thanks to those businesses when they’re doing their Christmas shopping this year! Whether that’s buying their turkey from one of our local butchers, shopping for gifts and gift cards from one of our many independent businesses or hosting their Christmas parties at one of our many hospitality businesses.”
As part of Newcastle-Under-Lyme BID’s commitment to the community, the #LightupCastle annual switch on event is just one of several festive events taking place this season, including #LightupCastle, the annual Christmas Lantern Parade in association with BArts, a Christmas Window Competition for local businesses, and a free Christmas window trail competition for children.
Local business Jumbo Play and Fun will also be hosting “Merry Musical Social” in association with Dream Entertainment on Bridge Street from 6-11pm which will feature entertainment from live singers, DJs and saxophonists.
Free parking will be available on all Borough Council car parks courtesy of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council.
Visitors are encouraged to check Newcastle under Lyme BID social media channels @newcastlebid for more information and a full list of stage performances and times.
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