Visitors to Nelson were treated to an exhilarating afternoon of festive cheer as the town centre came alive with the annual Christmas light switch-on event. The air was filled with excitement and anticipation, and the atmosphere was undeniably magical, drawing crowds from near and far to partake in an array of seasonal activities, crafts, delectable food offerings, and lively entertainment. The event culminated in a stunning fireworks display that lit up the night sky, leaving attendees in awe and marking the official start of the festive season in Nelson.
The highlight of the entertainment lineup was none other than platinum-selling DJ TeeDee, who headlined the main stage with a pulsating music set that had the crowd dancing and singing along. His infectious energy and engaging performance set the tone for what would become a truly memorable evening. Local talent also shone brightly, with singer Sophie Stott captivating the audience with her beautiful voice as she performed a selection of festive tunes that resonated with both young and old. Additionally, Gavin Young showcased his vocal talents with a medley of classic Christmas songs that evoked nostalgia and holiday spirit in the hearts of those in attendance.
The entertainment didn’t stop there; the enthusiasm of the afternoon was reflected in a series of dance performances from local groups, including the Stage Door Youth Theatre and the Helen Green Academy of Dance. Their vibrant routines captivated the audience and added a dynamic element to the event. One particularly should be noted was a special Christmas dance performance that brought the spirit of the holiday season to life, engaging those watching and encouraging claps and cheers of support from the crowd.
For the little ones, the festivities included the delightful ‘Children’s Frozen Christmas Show,’ which provided a perfect opportunity for families to sing along with beloved characters. This event was particularly well-received, as it transported children into the enchanting world of winter magic, inspiring laughter and joy as the children eagerly participated. The atmosphere was further heightened by the infectious rhythms of the SambAfriq drummers, whose energetic beats encouraged crowds to dance, truly transforming the town centre into a place of joyful celebration.
While the performances dazzled those in attendance, the event also offered a plethora of family-friendly activities that ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy. Free children’s rides dotted the area, delighting younger visitors and allowing them to experience the thrill of the carnival atmosphere. The brightly decorated rides seemed to echo the excitement of the season, as children squealed with delight while enjoying the rides with family and friends. Face painting stations allowed kids to embrace their creativity, transforming them into various festive characters, while hair glitter added a touch of sparkle to the day, reinforcing the celebration spirit.
In addition to the rides and activities, the Pendle Rise Shopping Centre buzzed with stalls featuring enticing food options, handmade crafts, and Christmas card workshops, where families could create festive greetings for loved ones. The diverse selection of food stalls allowed attendees to indulge in seasonal treats that enhanced the festive atmosphere. From hot chocolate and mulled wine to traditional treats like roasted chestnuts and candy canes, there was no shortage of delicious offerings that satisfied hunger and added to the celebratory spirit of the day.
As part of the festivities, children had the chance to meet the man of the season himself—Santa Claus. Families lined up for the opportunity to take pictures with Santa, capturing the moment as children shared their Christmas wishes. The joy on the children’s faces was palpable, creating lasting memories for families in attendance. The festive spirit was further amplified by the delightful tunes played by the Salvation Army Brass Band, whose performances throughout the afternoon infused the event with classic holiday music that resonated with both nostalgia and cheer. Their melodies created a warm and welcoming ambiance, wrapping the crowd in the joys and traditions of the season.
Among the many highlights of the day was the announcement of the winners of a colouring competition that had garnered an impressive response, with more than 800 entries. The competition provided a platform for local children to showcase their artistic skills, and the excitement grew as the winners were revealed. Tobias Paul clinched the first prize, proving his talent and creativity, followed closely by Amal Nadeem in second place and Mohammad Ayaan in third. Special recognition was given to M. Feroze Karim, whose entry stood out among the many submissions. As the winners received their cash prizes, the pride and happiness on their faces reflected the spirit of the event—a celebration of community and creativity.
Cllr Faraz Ahmad, Chair of Nelson Town Council, expressed his delight over the day’s success, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in creating such cherished events. “What a wonderful day we have had here in Nelson. It has been really special to see so many people enjoying themselves and getting involved in the festivities despite the arrival of Storm Bert,” he remarked. His comments highlighted not only the importance of bringing joy during the festive season but also the resilience of the community in coming together. Despite the challenging weather conditions posed by Storm Bert, the community spirit remained unyielded, showcasing the dedication and enthusiasm of those who organized and attended the event.
Reflecting on the day’s success, Cllr Ahmad remarked on the vibrant array of performances, the delicious food and drink stalls, thrilling funfair rides, and of course, the breathtaking fireworks display that concluded the evening. “It has just been incredible! Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event, and we hope you enjoy the rest of the festive season,” he concluded. His sentiments resonated strongly with attendees who left the event infused with the joys of the Christmas spirit, ready to embrace the season with openness and cheer.
In the days following the event, the impact of the Christmas light switch-on continued to be felt throughout Nelson. Local businesses reported an uptick in visitors, inspired by the vibrant community event that reminded everyone of the joy and warmth of the holiday season. The decorations and lights put in place for the event remained a source of delight for residents and visitors alike, as they could continue to bask in the festive cheer that had been ignited that day.
The success of the Christmas light switch-on in Nelson serves as a testament to the power of community spirit, collaboration, and the shared desire for moments of joy and connection during the holiday season. As families look forward to the upcoming festivities, events such as this play an essential role in nurturing communal bonds and celebrating the rich traditions that encapsulate the essence of local culture. The commitment of organizers and volunteers who give their time and resources to create such memorable experiences for families deserves recognition, as they lay the groundwork for a thriving community filled with warmth and holiday cheer.
As the beautiful lights twinkled and the festive atmosphere lingered, residents and visitors of Nelson are inspired to carry forward the joy experienced at the event, sharing kindness and love throughout the holiday season. With many more gatherings and festivities lined up in the coming weeks, the sense of anticipation remains high, encouraging everyone to come together to celebrate the magic that Christmas brings. The memories created during the switch-on event will, without a doubt, resonate in the hearts and minds of the Nelson community for years to come, as they continue to uphold the traditions that make this time of year so special.