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Just ten days to go to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council brings festive celebrations back to Newry with their Christmas lights switch-on event offering plenty of free family entertainment to mark the start of the busy festive shopping season.
The much-loved event is designed to bring the community together while also supporting local businesses by boosting footfall in the city centre during the run-up to Christmas, encouraging people to visit local shops, cafés, restaurants and hospitality venues.
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 kick off in Newry on Thursday 20 November with Marcus Square hosting family-friendly activities from 6pm to 8pm, including live music from Sugartown Road and a magical performance from Anna and Elsa the Disney princesses from Frozen. Southern Area Hospice (Evora Hospice) will be adding 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 at Newry Market, which will run from 20 November to 21 December and will offer festive stalls, live entertainment, seasonal food and drink and family activities.
Cllr Campbell added, "Please save the dates and join us in Newry with your family and friends. There's no better way to start the Christmas season than celebrating with your local community."
The festive cheer continues in Downpatrick on Friday 28 November, with St Patrick’s Square hosting an evening of entertainment from 6pm to 8pm.
