Morpeth is preparing for a large turnout at its annual Christmas lights switch-on on Saturday, November 14, which will include the unveiling of Rutherford & Co's festive window display and a full programme of free family activities.
The historic market town in Northumberland is known for its elaborate Christmas celebrations, centred on the department store in Sanderson Arcade, whose window reveals have drawn large crowds for years. Many locals consider the display to be even better than Fenwick's in Newcastle.
Programme of free events from noon
From 12pm, Bridge Street will host funfair rides, face painting, a snow globe photo opportunity, visits with Santa Claus, and Morpeth's festive town trail, all free of charge. A selection of festive food vans will be available throughout the day.
This year's stage line-up is described as bigger than ever, with over 200 local children taking part in acts across the day, along with Rock Choir, games hosted by BBC Radio Newcastle's Matt Bailey, and a performance by The Overthinkers leading up to the switch-on.
Window reveal and switch-on at 3pm
At 3pm, all attention will turn to Rutherford & Co for the Christmas window reveal. Just before 5pm, Santa and the Mayor of Morpeth, Dr Wendy Fail, will join a competition winner on stage to press the button and light up the town. The Ellington Colliery Brass Band will then perform Christmas favourites to close the day.
Dr Wendy Fail said: "We welcomed a record number of visitors to our switch-on last year, and are so incredibly proud of how our town celebrations have grown into a calendar staple for so many people from Morpeth and beyond." She added that the team works hard to provide as many free activities as possible so that everyone can have a magical start to the festive season, thanking sponsors, the event teams, and local businesses for their efforts.
