Details of Christmas light switch-ons across Newry, Mourne and Down revealed

​Each year they officially mark the start of the holiday season in our towns and city. Not only do they bring communities together, foster a sense of unity and spread holiday cheer, they bring people into our commercial centres to help support our local businesses.

This year, in the wake of the devastating flooding, the Council is encouraging residents to rally around and support business owners impacted by flooding to improve morale and local commerce in their town centres.

Newry, Mourne and Downs District Council Chairperson, Councillor Valerie Harte said, "The Christmas Lights Switch-On events are a time for our communities to come together and celebrate the magic of the holiday season.

"There really is no better place to start the festivities than in your local community supporting your own traders.

“We are mindful of both the ongoing flooding recovery process and our commitment to supporting the traders who have reopened – a testament to the unwavering resilience of our businesses.

"Supporting local commerce at Christmas time has always been a Council priority. Businesses and traders are an integral part of our communities as they provide local jobs and services and its important that we get behind them.

"This year, now more than ever, we invite everyone to get the dates in your diary and come along to your local Switch On event.”

The first of the Switch On events will take place in Newry City Centre on Thursday 23 November from 6pm – 8.30pm in Marcus Square, Hill Street and Newry Town Hall. There will be live performances by local artists and musicians who will serenade the crowd with beloved holiday tunes, creating a magical atmosphere.

No Christmas Light Switch on would be complete without a special guest appearance from Santa Claus, who will spread cheer to children of all ages with his grand entrance at 7.30pm in Marcus Street.

A variety of delicious seasonal treats and warm beverages will also be on offer from local food vendors and Newry Town Hall will become a winter wonderland as it hosts a Christmas Artisan Market full of festive treats.

Arrangements for the remainder of the switch-on events are currently being finalised.

Community Christmas light switch-on events (A-Z):

Crossmaglen Friday 24 November

Ballynahinch Friday 1 December, 6pm - 9pm

Downpatrick Sunday 3 December, 12 Noon - 6pm

Dundrum Friday 1 December, 7pm

Hilltown Friday 1 December

Killyleagh Sunday 26 November

Kilkeel Saturday 25 November, 1pm - 6pm

Newcastle 25 November

Newry Thursday 23 November, 6pm - 8.30pm

Rostrevor Saturday 2 December

Saintfield Friday 1 December

Warrenpoint 25 November, 5pm – 7pm