Festive Christmas Lights Switch On Events with Santa

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is getting ready to spread some Christmas magic with Switch On events happening across the district from 22 November until 7 December 2018.

Kicking off are the flagship events in Newry on Thursday 22 November and Downpatrick on Friday 23 November.

Newry will be a hub of activity in the Event Space at Marcus Square, Hill Street from 5pm. A Santa Fun Run will take place at 5.30pm, hosted by Southern Area Hospice Services, and the winner will be announced just in time for Santa’s arrival.  Santa and his reindeer will arrive just in time to switch the lights on at 7pm followed by a pyrotechnic display. 

The crowds will be getting into the festive spirit in St Patrick’s Square, Downpatrick on Friday 23 November starting at 5pm with the Enchanted Lantern Parade. The parade will be led by Santa and his reindeer, starting from Down County Museum and will make its way through English Street, Market Street to finish at St Patrick Square and join in the Christmas celebrations. There will be FREE family fun activities for everyone to enjoy and the lights will be switched on at 7.40pm followed by a fireworks display.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin said, “The Christmas Light Switch Ons will officially mark the start of the festive season in the district. I would encourage everyone to attend the events and get into the Christmas mood.  They are also very important to our local economy as they officially launch the start of the Christmas shopping period in our towns. The Switch On events will provide everyone with the opportunity to shop local and support businesses across the district.”

The flagship events are followed by community Christmas Light Switch Ons in the following locations: Crossmaglen 30 November 7.30pm, Newcastle 24 November 4pm, Kilkeel 1 December 12pm, Warrenpoint 1 December 3pm (switch on at 6.15pm) and Ballynahinch 7 December 6pm.

For further information, please contact Newry Visitor Information Centre on 028 3031 3170 or Downpatrick Visitor Information Centre on 028 4461 2233. Full event listings are available at www.visitmournemountains.co.uk or facebook.com/VisitMourneMountains.