Ards and North Down is getting ready to light up for Christmas with switch on events taking place in the borough’s five towns – Bangor, Holywood, Newtownards, Comber and Donaghadee – over the next few weeks.

Just five in a line-up of over 34 festive AND fun events, organised by Ards and North Down Borough Council, taking place across the borough throughout the Christmas season, the switch ons are sure to get you in the celebratory mood.

For the first time in 10 years, Bangor’s seafront will be lit up with a spectacular fireworks display when the switch on event moves venue to the McKee Clock Arena at Queen’s Parade. The event, which is taking place on Saturday 21 November, will include a magical Christmas market from 11am – 7pm, featuring all of Bangor’s best-loved stores.  The official switch on by the Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Alan Graham, will follow the fireworks finale at 5.30pm. Spectators are invited to enjoy the fireworks from viewing points along the promenade.

On Friday 27 November the Christmas lights will be switched on in Conway Square, Newtownards. Local traders will be showcasing the range of fabulous festive gifts available in local shops from 12 noon at a special outdoor Christmas market.  At 7pm Ards Arts Centre will be transformed into an illuminated Advent Calendar, with a display in each window.  Festive street theatre and a special joint performance by Bangor Ladies Choir and Donaghadee Male Voice Choir will precede the lights being switched on by the Deputy Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Carl McClean.

Then on Saturday 28 November, there will be more family festive fun in Holywood with their annual Christmas lights switch on event.  Featuring a Christmas Market, Open House choir, an ice-rink, a visit from Santa, a giant snowman, activities in the library and street theatre, the event promises to be a great day out for the whole family.  The market will trade from 11am – 6pm and the lights will be switched on by the Mayor at 4.30pm.

The Mayor will also be switching on the lights in Comber Square on Thursday 26 November at 4pm where a special Christmas Fair will feature a range of tasty gifts and treats from local traders.  Families are invited to bring the kid’s to Santa’s grotto and get into the festive spirit.

On Sunday 6 December, the Deputy Mayor will be switching on the lights in Donaghadee following a community carol service at First Presbyterian Church at 7pm. This will conclude a weekend of festive activities in the town that will include fireworks, a Santa parade, an outdoor ice rink and a 5K Santa fun run.

The Christmas fun doesn’t end there!  Project 24 is also hosting a fantastic Christmas event on Friday 4 December. A land of Christmas fairy tale with twinkling lights, festive foods and a special appearance from Santa and his reindeer will accompany the grand switch on at 7pm.

Looking forward to the festive AND fun switch on events, Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Alan Graham, said:

“The switching on of the Christmas tree lights in towns across the borough are perfect events to make everyone in the family feel the festive season has arrived. Wrap up warmly and come along and enjoy what each of these special events has to offer.”

These are primarily outdoor events; please dress appropriately. All events are subject to change. Admission and activities are all free.  Find out more about all our events at visitardsandnorthdown.com.  For festive pictures, updates and promotions ‘like us’ on Facebook.