Gorleston Christmas lights switch-on

Get ready to unwrap the magic of the holiday season as the Gorleston Christmas lights switch-on returns to light up the town with a festive experience designed to enchant all ages.

This year, the event will take over Gorleston High Street on Sunday, November 30, from noon until 6.30pm, with a range of activities and entertainment to spread holiday cheer.

Those looking to do a spot of Christmas shopping can browse vendors lining the street selling a wide range of handmade crafts and gifts, as well as festive foods, drinks and sweet treats. Some of the shops along the high street will also be open for business.

There will be a packed schedule of live music and entertainment organised and hosted by Harbour Radio. Funding from Visit Great Yarmouth/GYTABIA supports the event.

There will also be a festive Elf Trail that will start and finish at The Elf Hut, located between Farm Foods and The Factory Outlet Shop. Children are invited to pick up a leaflet from there and then find the elves and their gingerbread houses hidden in shop windows and on stalls, which will all have a letter on them.

Once all the letters are collected, youngsters can then unscramble them to discover a Christmas item. Once completed, leaflets can be returned to The Elf Hut, where children will receive a sweet treat and be entered into a free prize draw.

Prizes on offer include a family ticket for the Gorleston Pavilion pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, a voucher from Ellese Bakes, something from Pirate Cat Creations and many more.

The Mayor of the Borough of Great Yarmouth, Councillor Carl Annison, will be joined on stage by special guests – including Santa and the panto characters from Gorleston Pavilion’s Jack and The Beanstalk – for the official light switch-on at 5pm. Fireworks will follow at 6pm.

Councillor Annison said: ‘’The Gorleston lights switch-on event is always a highlight of the annual calendar in the borough and this year promises fantastic family fun and entertainment.

‘’I’d like to thank Visit Great Yarmouth, Harbour Radio and all the businesses for their generous support of this community event at such a special time of year.’’

Asa Morrison, Chief Executive of Visit Great Yarmouth, said: “The Gorleston light switch-on is always a popular event, and I’m sure this year will be no different. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase the high street’s vibrant mix of shops, along with plenty of attractions and entertainment.’’