Christmas Lights Switch-On Events Announced for Newry and Downpatrick

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is getting ready to bring festive sparkle back to the district as Christmas Lights Switch-On events return to Newry and Downpatrick this November.

These much-loved celebrations offer families the chance to come together, enjoy free entertainment and mark the beginning of the festive season in our town and city centres. They also play an important part in supporting the local economy - drawing people, boosting footfall and encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy everything our shops, cafés, restaurants and hospitality businesses have to offer in the busy run-up to Christmas.

Talking about the importance of Christmas Light Switch On events, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “Christmas Lights Switch-Ons are a wonderful opportunity for our communities to come together and celebrate the start of the festive season. These evenings bring people together at a time of year that can feel different for everyone and they help create busy, welcoming town centres that benefit our local economy.”

Festivities begin in Newry on Thursday 20 November, where Marcus Square will be filled with festive fun from 6pm to 8pm with family-friendly activities, live music from Sugartown Road and a magical performance from Anna and Elsa, the much-loved Disney princesses from Frozen. Southern Area Hospice (Evora Hospice) will add to the excitement with their annual Santa Dash, taking place before Santa and the Vice Chairperson arrive to switch on the Christmas lights at 7.30pm.

This year’s Switch-On also coincides with the opening of the Newry Christmas Market on Hill Street, offering festive stalls, live entertainment, seasonal food and drink and family activities from 20 November to 21 December.

The festive cheer continues in Downpatrick on Friday 28 November, with St Patrick’s Square hosting an evening of entertainment from 6pm to 8pm. Families can enjoy more live music from Sugartown Road, a sparkling visit from Anna and Elsa and the much-anticipated arrival of Santa. 

At 7.30pm, Santa will join the Chairperson to officially illuminate the town centre, creating another vibrant evening that encourages people to stay, shop, dine and enjoy the local area.

Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell continued, “Please save the dates and join us in Newry or Downpatrick with your family and friends. There’s no better way to start the Christmas season than celebrating with your local community.”

Follow @visitmournegullionstrangford or go to Visit Mourne Gullion Strangford- What's On  for more details of Community Light Switch On events across the district.