Crowds flocked in their thousands to witness Burnley’s Christmas lights switch on this Saturday.

Called ‘Burnley Believes’ the event drew in one of the biggest crowds to date and saw dozens of performers take to the main stage in St James’s Street.

Organised by Burnley Business Improvement District, the event culminated in the turning on of the lights by the Mayor of Burnley and former Lioness goalkeeper Rachel Brown-Finnis.

(Image: Echo PR)

She was joined by Burnley FC mascots Bertie and Bella Bee, singer Channy and Burnley’s Ice Cream Twins.

Laura Diffey, Burnley BID project manager, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch-On is always a highlight of the year for Burnley, and this year was truly exceptional.

"Seeing the town centre filled with smiles, laughter, and festive joy is a reminder of what makes Burnley so special.

“This event is about bringing people together, and it was wonderful to see our community coming out in such strong numbers to celebrate.”

Snow cannons fired as the lights turned on which launched the festive season in Burnley.

The magic lantern parade, led by the Batala Lancaster drummers, saw large-scale puppets and members of the community wind their way through the town centre.

The magic lantern parade The magic lantern parade (Image: Echo PR)

Whilst on the main stage performers including Andrew Gilmour, vocalist Jess McGlinchey, Burnley College Performing Arts, Next Level Dance, DLN Dance, Scoop and the Burnley Panto Society entertained crowds with a sneak peek of their upcoming production of Peter Pan.  

Before the event, Laura said: “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.”.

Visitors also enjoyed Christmas-themed crazy golf, festive face painting, balloon modelling, a festive trail, letter writing, performance by Punch and Judy, comedy acts and a fun fair.