Thousands of people across Hyndburn will gather to see their towns light up for Christmas over the next few weeks.

Accrington’s spectacular celebrations will include a free live music show, appearances from Peppa Pig and a fireworks extravaganza.

The fun will start with the 2BR/Bee music stage outside the town hall at 6pm on Thursday, November 28 before the lights switch-on at 7.30pm.

There will be a festive funfair all day on Broadway and shops will stay open for late night shopping.

The first ever Christmas markets in Accrington will also run from Thursday, December 5 in front of the Market Hall.

They will be open every Thursday and Saturday during December and Monday, December 23 for shoppers to pick up seasonal food, drink and goods.

The Santa’s Grotto will open on Saturday, December 7 at Accrington Market Hall where children can see Santa and his elves in the winter wonderland grotto.

There’ll also be real reindeer on Broadway and a Christmas Food and Craft Fair on the same day at Accrington Town Hall to raise money for the mayor’s charities.

Entry is free and the event runs from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Hyndburn Council leader Miles Parkinson has urged people to come along to their local event.

He said: “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, with all the switch-ons around the borough, including the Accrington spectacular, which after talking to traders, we’ve moved back to a Thursday evening.

“Please bring the family into Accrington for the big switch-on and also come along and support your local community switch-on event.

“There are various things planned at different township events to get you feeling festive including carol singing by local school choirs.

“Many thanks also to all the councillors and members of each community, who have worked hard to organise these local township events.”

 

The switch on in your area:

Baxenden – the corner of Southwood Drive and Manchester Road at 6.30pm on Monday, November 25.

Clayton-le-Moors – two switch-ons on Tuesday, November 26 including the Hare and House Pub at 4.30pm and Barnes Square at 6.30pm.

Oswaldtwistle – Jubilee Gardens on Wednesday, November 27 at 6pm.

Rishton – the corner of Parker Street on Friday, November 29 at 6.30pm.

Huncoat – two switch-ons on Monday, December 2 including the corner of Lowergate Road and Altham Lane at 6pm and Vauzhall Gardens on Burnley Road at 7pm.

Church – two switch-ons on Tuesday, December 3 including Manor Gardens on Dill Hall at 6pm and the Church Kirk Clock at 7pm.

Milnshaw – Dyke Nook Gardens on Wednesday, December 4 at 6.30pm.

Great Harwood – Town Gate square on Friday, December 6 at 6.30pm.

Altham – The Walton Arms pub on Monday, December 9 at 7pm.