Church Square is set to sparkle this month as the countdown to Christmas gets underway in St Helens with the annual Christmas lights switch on event.
This year’s event, Sparkle in the Square will have a real community feel to it, with the spotlight shining on the borough’s talented musicians, local acts and school choirs who will take to the stage to entertain the crowds.
Starting at noon on Saturday 17th November, the day will see an array of street entertainers line up in Church Square to mesmerise shoppers with their spellbinding acts – not least the stunning Winter Fairy who is sure to thrill audiences with her skilful contact juggling show.
The Mayor and Mayoress of St Helens, Councillor Pat Ireland and Lynn Glover, will then have the pleasure of joining the 2018 Pride of St Helens finalists in switching on the Christmas lights to officially launch the start of the festive period in St Helens.
Special effects will also be visible throughout the day to make the square come alive. If that’s not enough to whet the appetite, festive food and drink will also be available.
St Helens Council’s portfolio holder for arts and culture, Councillor Gill Neal, said: “We’ve taken a different approach to our Christmas lights switch on event this year, with the intention of delivering a more family-friendly and community-focused event, as well as relocating to Church Square to support the town centre’s shopping offer.
“Santa hats off to our event organisers who have managed to put together another excellent bill of entertainment which falls in line with these aims. I for one am very much looking forward to it and I hope to see our communities come together to celebrate the very best of St Helens in our 150th year at what is considered to be the most wonderful time of the year.”
Sparkle in the Square takes place in Church Square on Saturday 17th November, from 12pm to 6pm.
Local Xmas lights switch on events across the Borough
Earlestown, Market Street – 18 November, 12pm to 6pm
Rainhill, Victoria Pub – 23 November, 4:30pm
Bold, the Pastures – 23 November, 6pm
Haydock, Haydock Library – 30 November, 4pm to 6pm
Victoria Park – 1 December, 4pm
Rainford, Church Road – 1 December, 10:30am to 3:30pm
Newton-le-Willows, St Peter’s Church – 2 December, 12pm to 6pm
Thatto Heath, Thatto Heath Road – 7 December, 3:30pm
