Kendal readies itself for annual Christmas lights switch-on

This follows on from the success of the 2022 event with the town council hoping that they can make the festivities even bigger and better than before.

Residents are invited to Kendal Mountain Festival Basecamp at Abbot Hall Park for the show, which will start at 5pm on Thursday, November 16.

Councillor Helen Ladhams, chair of Kendal Town Council’s Christmas Lights and Festivals committee, said: ‘The partnership with Kendal Mountain Festival was such a success last year, we’re delighted to be working with the team again to bring Kendal residents a lights switch-on to remember.

"We’re so lucky to have international acts here in Kendal, and of course to have such an incredible array of local talent and supporters to make this community event so special’.

A welcome film will introduce guests to the event at the basecamp before a colourful family parade starts at 5:30pm.

This will be led by Kendal's rum Nation and stilt walkers, with the parade making its way up Highgate and Stricklandgate, before heading into Market Place. 

Father Christmas and his sleigh will be in Market Place from 5pm and there will be mulled wine, music and a classic fairground ride to add to the Christmas magic.

As the parade reaches the square, Growing Singers will perform songs celebrating the joy of the great outdoors.

The Mayor of Kendal will lead the countdown to the light switch on, but not before spectators will be invited to look to the skies as renowned Slackliner Lukas Irmler performs his daredevil tricks overhead.

For those wishing to continue the festivities, Ragtag Arts will be in Finkle Street and children will have the chance to meet Lukas and test their balance with a slackline taster. 

Special thanks were given to Kendal Mountain Festival, Kendal BID and Town Councillors for their support in making the event possible.

More information about the upcoming festivities can be found on the group's Facebook page.