Mason Moore | Hinckley Reporter | 9 November 2021

HINCKLEY’S spectacular Christmas light switch-on is set to take place in Hinckley town centre next week, on Friday 19 November.

It will be the first in-person light switch-on to be held since 2019, as last year’s was scrapped and highlights were shown online due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The festivities will start at 4pm with a ‘full programme’ of entertainment taking place on-stage in Market Place.

The on-stage production and sound will be provided by Fosse 107.

It will feature performances from St. Mary’s School, Hinckley Choral Union, Steve Faulkner, The Drama Academy, and Hastings School.

Representatives from Hinckley’s Ex-Servicemen’s Association and Royal British Legion will be at the switch-on at 6.10pm, twenty minutes before the lights turn on.

Then, at 6.30pm, Christmas lights will be turned on by a ‘local hero’ who has been chosen by Fosse 107 and Hinckley and Bosworth Mayor, Coun. Ted Hollick.

After the lights have been switched on, town-goers will be treated to a ‘fantastic’ fireworks display over St. Mary’s Church, which has been sponsored by the Showman’s Guild and Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council (HBBC).

The event will coincide with the traditional Tin Hat Fair, based on Regent Street. The fair will run from 4pm until 10pm on Friday and 12pm to 10pm on Saturday.

Some town centre retailers will remain open and a special festive market will take place to provide people with an opportunity to do some ‘timely’ Christmas shopping.

Youngsters will be able to meet with Father Christmas himself inside of his grotto, at the top of Castle Street, thanks to Hinckley Round Table, but a small entry charge will be required as the funds are in aid of charity.

Parking will be free from 3pm in all of the Borough Council run car parks on the day of the switch-on.

All relevant road closure information will be mentioned on the Council’s website, as well as the One Network traffic map.

Borough Council Leader, Stuart Bray, said: “The Christmas lights switch on is always one of the most popular events of the year and after the disappointment of having to cancel the event last year, we’re all looking forward to the return of what is always a good night where we can all support local businesses.

“I wish everyone a happy and safe time during what promises to be an unforgettable evening.”

He continued: “For those wanting to bring elderly and less mobile residents to view the lights I would recommend our drive through on Wednesday 1 December from 6pm to 8pm.

“Seeing the lights without all of the crowds is great and the event will be fully outdoors this year with the United reformed church delivering you a warm drink and mine pie to your vehicle whilst you listen to their community choir sing some carols.

“This is a great event and I hope as many people as possible will come along to enjoy it.”