A former England footballer is set to switch on Burnley’s Christmas lights today (November 16).
Details of the town’s Christmas lights switch-on event were revealed earlier this month, with a fun fair, crazy golf and lantern parade planned.
Now, the famous face turning the lights on has been revealed.
Ready to switch on the lights accompanied by a host of performers is a former Lioness goalkeeper, from Burnley, Rachel Brown-Finnis.
She was also a member of Team GB’s 2012 London Olympic squad.
Rachel will be joined by Burnley FC mascots Bertie and Bella Bee who will take to the stage at 5.30pm, ready to complete the celebrations with a countdown and snow cannons, firing a flurry of magic on St James’s street.
Launching from 12pm, there will be a host of Christmas activities, including Christmas-themed crazy golf, festive face painting, performances with Punch & Judy, balloon modelling, comedy magic and a fun fair.
Children can meet their favourite characters as Lilo and Stitch mascots make an exciting appearance, while families can explore an enchanting prize-filled festive trail across the town.
The Burnley Silver Alliance Brass Band will play classic Christmas tunes. On the live stage, from 12pm – 5.30pm, an array of performers will entertain the crowds, including social media’s Ice-Cream Twins, singer Channy, Burnley FC mascots Bertie and Bella Bee, guitarist Andrew Gilmore, vocalist Jess McGlinchey and Burnley College Performing Arts.
An Interactive Elf Show and Princess Takeover Show will mesmerise families, while local dance acts will take to the stage, including Next Level Dance, Ashworth’s Dance Academy, DLN Dance and Scoop!
The Burnley Panto Society will also delight audiences with a sneak peek of their upcoming production of Peter Pan, bringing some extra sparkle to the celebrations.
The magical lantern parade, led by the Batala Lancaster drummers, will wind its way through the town centre from 4.15 pm, accompanied by none other than Santa Claus himself and his merry elves, making their way to the grand finale on the main stage.
Laura Diffey, Burnley BID project manager said “We can’t wait to see the community come together for what promises to be a truly spectacular day. The Burnley Believes Christmas Light Switch-On is all about creating lasting memories for families, and with the magical lantern parade, live performances, and of course, the light switch-on, we’re expecting a fantastic turnout.”
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