WHILE the nights might be drawing in, the days getting colder and the evenings getting darker, there is no need to worry as Launceston will soon be a shining scene of colour and festive spirit as it prepares for its big Christmas light switch on.
As the month progresses, Launceston’s residents will be preparing to get into the full festive spirit as the town gets ready for its big Launceston Light Up event!
Each year, the town square is filled with song, laughter, and food as the town marks the official beginning of the Christmas period.
This year once again promises to usher in the festive season with a bang.
On November 29, the residents will be welcomed to fill the town’s iconic square and enjoy the annual event.
2024’s Light Up Launceston event hopes to offer a variety of entertainment and activities to get involved with. Residents can kickstart – or finish off, for those who are ahead of the game – their Christmas shopping with a wander round the late night shopping market, hosting local businesses with plenty of gifts on offer.
This year’s seasonal market will include Firebrand Brewery, Sufusion Glass, Crackington Cider Company, Apple Tree Crafts, Suddy Nora, Wood Turning, Cornish Crepes, Justine’s Kitchen, Mix Prints and not forgetting Fathers Christmas’s Grotto in a new location. Bring your children along to visit him and receive a small free gift. Jodie May will also be available to paint faces for a small fee.
For those looking for some entertainment, the streets are set to shine as the annual lantern parade makes its way through the town, providing a visual spectacle for all those lining the route.
Leaving Launceston Central Methodist Church at 6.15pm the Illuminated-Lantern Parade lead by Launceston Town Band and Father Christmas in his sleigh will make its way to the Town Square via Southgate Street, Madford Lane and Westgate Street. At 6.30pm join the countdown to the switching on of the Christmas lights by this year’s Carnival Queen.
To entertain you while you shop the Town Band, Access Theatre, stilt walkers, street entertainers and jugglers will be scattered around the Town. The Festive stage and market will begin at 4pm.
On top of all of this, the big moment will also arrive, as the town’s mayor, Cllr Helen Bailey, takes to the stage to officially welcome Christmas to Launceston, lighting up the town’s festive light displays, bringing some much-needed sparkle to the area.
A spokesperson from Launceston Town Council said: “This looks to be a very fun-filled and festive event! We look forward to seeing you all there.
“From everyone at Launceston Town Council, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.”