Enjoy The Christmas Lights Switch-Ons In South Down

Christmas Lights Switch On Events Across Newry Mourne and Down Announced

It’s that time of year again when towns across South Down will be switching on their Christmas lights and getting into the festive mood for Christmas.

Newry Mourne and Down District Council is getting ready to light up the district this festive season! 

Dates are set and Christmas lights will be turned on across its towns and city at Switch On events happening between Thursday 21 November and Saturday 7 December. 

These evenings will provide everyone with plenty of opportunities to enjoy a series of festive activities that will create plenty of Christmas cheer.

The Christmas lights switch on event in St Patrick’s Square in Downpatrick in 2022. Events will be taking place across South Down over the next couple of weeks.
(Photo by Jim Masson/Down News.)

It all kicks off in Newry on Thursday 21 November in Marcus Square and Hill Street, where everyone can enjoy free family activities from 6pm to 8.30pm, with the lights being switched on at 7:30pm.

The Uplifted Gospel Choir and The Nooks will provide the soundtrack for the evening, adding to the festive atmosphere. Food and drink stalls will be available to serve up some warming treats.

In addition, Southern Area Hospice will host its Santa Fun Run on Hill Street at 6pm. Wrap up warm and be there in time to watch Santa arrive to switch on the lights at 7.30pm.

On Saturday 23 November, Downpatrick is set to host huge crowds in Saint Patricks Square from 3pm to 7pm. Attendees can enjoy family-friendly entertainment, live music from the Uplifted Gospel Choir and The Nooks, before Santa arrives to turn on the lights.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said: “The Christmas Light Switch On events are a fantastic way for the community to come together to celebrate the festive season.

“While Christmas may be difficult for some and joyful for others, it is important to remember that fostering a sense of community and belonging is the most important thing when it comes to these events.

“For retail businesses, restaurants, cafes and bars these events are vital, bringing life into the dark evenings and attracting people into the towns and villages.

“Across the district we have an amazing array of retail and hospitality on offer. We want to encourage people to shop local this Christmas, as it makes a big difference to our local economy.”

Chairperson, Cllr Pete Byrne added: “Please get the dates in your diary, come along to your local Switch On event with your family and friends. There really is no better place to start the festive season than with your local community.”

Community Christmas Light Switch On events:

Castlewellan* Thursday 28 November

Ardglass * Friday 29 November

Crossmaglen* Friday 29 November at 6.30pm

Hilltown Friday 29 November at 7pm

Saintfield Friday 29 November at 7pm

Kilkeel Saturday 30 November at 1pm-5.30pm

Newcastle* Saturday 30 November

Rostrevor Saturday 30 November at 4.30pm

Warrenpoint Saturday 30 November at 5pm-7pm

Crossgar* Sunday 1 December

Annalong Monday 2 December at 5.30pm

Newtownhamilton* Monday 2 December

Bessbrook Thursday 5 December at 5.30pm

Ballynahinch  Friday 6 December at 7pm

Camlough Friday 6 December at 7pm

Dundrum Friday 6 December at 7pm

Killyleagh* Saturday 7 December

*Time to be confirmed.

To find out more please visit:

www.visitmournemountains.co.uk/lights