There will be plenty of razzle dazzle at Penrith’s Christmas Sparkle celebrations ahead of the illumination of the town’s festive lights.
Penrith is set to be a hive of activity tomorrow, Saturday November 19, as the town centre comes alive with music, laughter and lights.
Visitors and residents will be able to enjoy street theatre from the Fairly Famous Family and prepare themselves to be amazed by the performers from Matrix Circus. There will also be a fantastic array of entertainment on offer in the form of live music, singers and dancers.
Arts and crafts are also set to feature – from noon until 4pm there will be a free craft and lantern workshop in the Devonshire Arcade which, it is hoped, will inspire local children to join in the lantern parade line-up at 5pm at the Town Hall.
The parade will set off at 5.30pm with the help of Santa and performers. Then the grand illumination is at 6pm followed by a sing-a-long by Squeeze Box.
Event manager Annabel Candler, from Plumpton-based Creativise Events, has been involved with Penrith events since she was a child.
She said: “My mum, Julie Prior, once upon a time created the switch on events which filled the streets. Now I am taking the reins, not just enjoying it all!
“It’s a pleasure to be developing something alongside Penrith BID to celebrate the festive season and support local businesses. I hope everyone gets involved and makes the most of the afternoon.”
Dan Harding, of Penrith BID, said: “Once again, we have an opportunity to showcase some brilliant local talent and celebrate the festive season in Penrith.
“The event will also be supporting some incredible organisations such as Penrith Mountain Rescue and be supported by the Lions of Penrith, the Devonshire Arcade, Penrith Library and the Leo Group.
“We are very excited to create and enjoy a day fit for all the family.”
From 2pm Market Square and Cornmarket will be a hub of activity for those enjoying an afternoon shopping. From 12noon until 4pm there is a free decoration and lantern workshop in the Devonshire arcade which we hope inspires the local children to join the parade which starts at the Town Hall at 5.30pm. Then the grand illumination is at 6pm followed by more entertainment.