Christmas Lights Switch On Events Across Newry, Mourne and Down Announced

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.
 
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 continued, “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
Annalong Saturday 30 November at 6pm
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 
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