Light switch on in Stafford expected to be a Beauty

Stafford is set for the biggest party of the year when thousands flood into the town for the annual Christmas lights switch-on.

The skies above the county town will be illuminated on Saturday 22 November and the day will include live music and street entertainment before the lights are turned on at 5pm. It will be followed by a spectacular firework display then more live music to keep the crowd singing and dancing in the town’s Market Square. 

Stars of this year’s Stafford Gatehouse panto, Sleeping Beauty, will join the Mayor of Stafford Borough, Councillor Jenny Barron, and Father Christmas on stage to launch what is considered to be the traditional countdown to Christmas Day.  

The festive extravaganza, managed by Freedom Leisure, attracts more than 10,000 into the ‘Square’ and surrounding streets - providing the “perfect showcase” for Stafford as a great place for people to do their Christmas shopping. 

A giant 40ft decorated Christmas Tree will take centre stage in the ‘Square’ while giant video screen will make sure everyone has a good view of the event – although organisers are urging people to arrive early, as the main area in Market Square will be temporarily closed from 4.45pm for safety reasons. 

Councillor Gillian Pardesi, Cabinet Member for Leisure at the Borough Council said: “This is always an amazing day and the perfect showcase for the county town in the run up to the big day.  

“I am sure this very popular event will attract thousands of shoppers and families to the town centre in what has always been considered as Stafford’s traditional countdown to Christmas Day. 

“I can’t wait to see the beautiful lights shine across our town centre and the smiles on the faces of children and families - it really is a wonderful experience.”  

Ross Stephenson, Freedom Leisure’s Events Manager, said: “This is the biggest day of the year in the town centre calendar and we’re so excited to be working with the Borough Council to get everyone in the festive mood. There will be lots of entertainment to get people in the party mood and then that very special moment when the lights first go on, accompanied by the cheers of thousands of onlookers.” 

More details and timings for the day will be available soon. Tickets for Sleeping Beauty at the Gatehouse Theatre are available from 01785 619080 or www.gatehousetheatre.co.uk