Building on the success of last year’s event, the iconic dance group K-Klass is set to perform their 90s hits ‘Rhythm is a Mystery’ and ‘Let Me Show You’ at Darwen’s Christmas lights switch-on on Saturday, November 16. The event promises to be an unforgettable experience, with a packed programme running from early afternoon into the evening.
Councillor Quesir Mahmood, the deputy leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and executive member for growth and development, expressed his excitement about the event, saying: “The Christmas lights switch-on is one of the biggest and most popular events in the Darwen calendar. Last year, many said it was the ‘best-ever’ with N-Trance drawing in record crowds and really getting the Christmas party started. We’re thrilled to continue the 90s dance theme with K-Klass switching on the lights this year.”
K-Klass, formed after a chance meeting at the famous Hacienda nightclub, has had an illustrious career as residents at Cream and headliners at festivals. They’ve worked alongside music legends like Whitney Houston, Kylie Minogue, Rihanna, Luther Vandross, and Candi Staton. Their high-energy performance is sure to get the crowd moving and in the festive spirit.
A Fun-Filled Afternoon and Evening
The event will kick off in the early afternoon, with a range of activities and entertainment for all ages. Visitors can expect to enjoy:
- Live music performances from local talent and K-Klass
- A festive market with a variety of stalls selling gifts, food, and drinks
- Funfair rides and games for kids (and kids at heart!)
- A meet-and-greet with Santa Claus and his elves
- A spectacular fireworks display to get everyone in the mood for the holiday season
Crafty Vintage Festive Markets Return
In addition to the electrifying music, the event will feature stalls in the square and at Darwen Market, courtesy of Crafty Vintage. Laura Johnson, Crafty Vintage’s owner, said: “It’s always a joy to work on the Darwen Christmas lights switch-on because we know just how popular and well-liked the event is. Every year, we set the bar higher and higher, and the feedback last year was just brilliant. We’re excited to announce K-Klass today, especially as so many people asked for us to bring back the 90s dance theme that was such a hit with N-Trance.”
The Crafty Vintage outdoor markets will offer a wide range of festive food, drinks, and gifts, making it the perfect opportunity to start your holiday shopping. With a focus on local talent and a strong headline act, this year’s event promises to be an unforgettable experience for families and friends alike.
Supporting Local Businesses
The Christmas lights switch-on event is a great way to support local businesses in Darwen. By attending the event, visitors will be able to explore the town centre and discover the unique shops, cafes, and restaurants that Darwen has to offer. Councillor Quesir Mahmood added: “This event is always a great way to start the official countdown to Christmas with family and friends while supporting our town centre businesses. We’re confident that this year’s event will be just as popular, if not more so, than last year’s.”
Jointly Funded by Blackburn with Darwen Council and Darwen Town Council
The event is jointly funded by Blackburn with Darwen Council and Darwen Town Council. Leader of Darwen Town Council, Cllr Jonathan Hamer, said: “Darwen Town Council is once again proud to be supporting the Christmas lights switch-on. This event is always incredibly popular with Darreners and visitors too, with so much going on right through the afternoon and into the early evening. It’s fantastic to have K-Klass turning on the lights this year, and we look forward to sharing more details about what’s planned.”
Mark Your Calendars for Blackburn’s Christmas Lights Switch-On
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Blackburn’s Christmas lights switch-on event, taking place the following week on Saturday, November 23. This event promises to be just as exciting, with a range of activities and entertainment for all ages.
Get Ready to Party!
With K-Klass performing their 90s hits, Crafty Vintage’s festive markets, and a range of activities and entertainment for all ages, Darwen’s Christmas lights switch-on event is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience. So, get ready to party and kick off the holiday season in style!