A popular festive tradition could be cancelled this year due to rising costs and falling donations.
In Ambleside, organisers have warned that the future of the town’s annual Christmas lights switch-on is under threat, despite plans to still install the winter light displays.
The switch-on weekend, which features Santa Cruises, a lantern parade, and fireworks in Rothay Park, remains uncertain and a final decision will be made in August.
The Ambleside Christmas Lights Directors said: "We are immensely proud of The Ambleside Light Switch on and what it means to the village bringing thousands of people into Ambleside, and a much-needed boost to the economy over the winter.
"But the reality is that we are facing a perfect storm of rising costs and falling donations.
"At this moment, we simply do not know if we have the funds or the volunteer manpower to safely run the switch-on weekend this year."
The volunteer-run event relies entirely on community funding and support from local businesses, but donations have reached an all-time low even as visitor numbers remain strong.
Operational costs for safety, crowd control, and insurance have risen sharply, putting additional strain on the event.
Much of the lighting infrastructure, now more than 15 years old, urgently needs replacement.
The committee plans to upgrade the Compston Road lights this year, followed by Lake Road next year.
Although a council grant will support these upgrades, organisers say a significant funding gap remains that must be covered by reserves.
The fundraising team is working to secure the necessary funds, but the committee has warned that there may not be enough time.
They are calling on businesses, residents, and sponsors to support the event and help keep the tradition alive.
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