Scunthorpe gets ready to sparkle as Christmas lights switch-on returns

Scunthorpe town centre is getting ready to shine as the countdown to Christmas begins with a fantastic day of free festive entertainment, family fun and a very special Christmas lights switch-on.

The annual celebration takes place on Saturday 21 November, bringing the town centre to life with music, performances, festive activities and plenty of seasonal magic. From the High Street to Church Square, and across venues including St John’s Market, Scunthorpe Central and 20-21 Visual Arts Centre, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

This year, the big switch-on will be made even more special by a local family who have been nominated by someone who wanted to give them a little extra Christmas magic. The lucky family selected will join much-loved character Annie Fanny on stage to help switch on the town’s Christmas lights – creating a moment they hopefully won’t forget.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “The Christmas lights switch-on is one of those special occasions that really brings our community together. It’s a chance to enjoy the excitement of the festive season, spend time with family and friends and make some lovely memories.

“We wanted to make this year’s switch-on extra special by giving a local family the chance to be part of the magic. It’s wonderful that someone has taken the time to nominate a family they feel deserves a little Christmas cheer, and I’m sure it will be a moment they treasure.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone into Scunthorpe town centre for a brilliant day of free entertainment and festive fun, and to seeing the town sparkle as we officially kick off Christmas.”

There will be a packed programme of entertainment throughout the day starting from 12pm, with live music, roaming performers and plenty of festive surprises, building up to the main stage celebrations and the big switch-on.

To bring the evening to a spectacular close, get ready for Swift and Styles – an electrifying tribute to two of the biggest names in music, Taylor Swift and Harry Styles.

Expect the big hits, plenty of singalong moments and a feel-good performance packed with pop anthems. It’s the perfect way to round off a brilliant day of festive celebrations and get everyone dancing into the Christmas season.

Full event programme:

• 4pm to 4.15pm – Little Enchantments: Demon Hunters
• 4.15pm to 4.25pm – Icicle Show
• 4.25 pm to 5pm – Back Chat Brass
• 5pm to 5.15pm – Introduction to Swift and Styles (Taylor Swift and Harry Styles tribute)
• 5.15pm to 5.20pm – Helter Skelter Pixel Show
• 5.20pm to 5.30pm – Robin Hood Panto Cast: 12 Days of Christmas
• 5.30pm to 5.35pm – Lights officially switched on by local family, Annie Fanny and The Mayor of North Lincolnshire
• 5.40pm to 6.30pm – Swift and Styles show

There will also be plenty of activities to enjoy, including Santa’s grotto, a festive farm, crafts, funfair rides, an escape room activity, food stalls and much more.

Whether you’re coming along for the entertainment, the festive activities or simply to soak up the atmosphere, join us in Scunthorpe for a brilliant free celebration to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.