Newtownards will get into that festive feeling on Saturday 30 November with lots of Christmas activities that kick off with the annual Christmas Lights Switch On event in Conway Square!
Cool FM’s Pete Snodden will join Santa and the Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Bill Keery, for the official Christmas lights ceremony and there will be lots to do for the entire family throughout the day…
It all kicks off from 10am with a fabulous Christmas Market, organised by Newtownards Chamber of Trade. High Street will be closed to traffic to enable the Chamber to locate stalls on the road, giving everyone an opportunity to do some traffic-free shopping while soaking up the Christmas atmosphere.
A shuttle bus will run between 10am and 7pm with the FREE park and ride service operating from various locations including Ards Shopping Centre and Tesco, Castlebawn, making it easy for everyone to get to and from the town centre. For the full route,see:
visitardsandnorthdown.com/ardsswitchon.
After a dander through the Christmas Market, visitors can enjoy a stop at the Ards Arts Centre which plays host to the Creative Peninsula Christmas Art and Craft Fayre where unique, handcrafted Christmas gifts will be available for purchase from 10am until 4.30pm.
A magical new musical show called ‘Heart of Winter’ by Lyngo Theatre will show at the Queen’s Hall at 2pm and 7pm. Suitable for those aged 3+, tickets must be purchased in advance from ArdsArts.com.
In the run up to the Christmas Lights Switch On, Santa and his sleigh will lead a lantern parade of children at 5.15pm. They will travel from South Street to Conway Square where the Mayor and Santa will officially welcome Christmas to the town by switching on the lights around 5.30pm.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Bill Keery, said: “There is always something magical about this time of year so get your hats and scarves at the ready and be sure not to miss this fun, family event which is guaranteed to put everyone living, working and visiting our towns and high streets in the mood for Christmas.”
For information about all Christmas events in the Borough, see: visitardsandnorthdown.com/christmas
