On Friday 22nd November, Alton officially welcomed the festive season with a magical Christmas Lights Switch-On and Market. This year’s event was a resounding success, filled with festive cheer, community spirit and enchanting surprises for all ages.
For the first time, Alton hosted two Christmas Lights Switch-Ons; one at the Assembly Rooms and another in Market Square, ensuring even more of the community could join in the excitement. Both locations were buzzing with anticipation and joy as the town’s festive lights illuminated the night sky.
The lights were officially switched on by Town Mayor, Cllr Annette Eyre, who was joined by Elsa and Olaf, portrayed by talented performers from the YEM Theatre School. Their captivating presence added an extra touch of magic to the ceremony, thrilling children and families alike.
A big thank you also goes to Town Crier, Dave Parsons, who energised the crowd with his lively announcements and festive enthusiasm and finally to all the local businesses who supported the event with their contributions and participation, helping to ensure the success of this beloved community celebration.
Father Christmas, was a star attraction of the evening, welcomed many children to his new home, a beautifully decorated grotto, where he listened to Christmas wishes and sprinkled his Christmas magic. Adding to the wonder, the majestic Snow Queen greeted families, enchanting children with her warm smiles and festive charm. The event also saw an incredible line up of local entertainment, showcasing the talent and creativity of the community and featured:
- Alton Rock Choir
- King’s Pond Shantymen
- Tilly Lukemen
- Alton Concert Band
- Amery Hill School
- The Butts Primary School
- YEM Theatre School
- Wootey Infant School
- Encore Choir
- Alton Morris
- The Dirty Lilacs
- Andrews Endowed School
A heartfelt thank you goes to all the performers for bringing festive melodies and joyous energy to the evening.
Alton Town Council are also deeply grateful to their sponsors who made this magical event possible:
Newbury Building Society said:
“We’re extremely pleased to help bring some Christmas cheer to Alton this year with a £500 donation from our Community Support Scheme. The Christmas Lights Switch On is always a magical event for the town, and we’re sure this year will be no different!”
Specsavers said:
“The Christmas switch on is a time for community and bringing people to the heart of our town. Being a part of the main sponsors is integral to show that we care about Alton and want to be at the forefront of togetherness through the festive period.”
Rod Gaskins Ltd said:
“We are delighted to be supporting Alton Town Council’s festivities again this year and would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”
HSDC Alton said:
“It is fantastic to be a sponsor and to be part of Alton Christmas lights switch-on for the second year running. We are delighted to support this event; it is an excellent way to bring our local community together.”
PJ Grace and Sons said:
“PJ Grace & Sons are pleased to be able to sponsor the Christmas Tree again this year. We wish everyone a lovely Christmas and a very happy new year!”
Special thanks also go to:
- Alex from ACS Christmas Trees, for providing the stunning Christmas trees that transformed Father Christmas’s grotto into a magical winter wonderland.
- Dementia Friendly Alton, for generously providing the use of the Assembly Rooms, a warm and welcoming space for part of the festivities.
- The Market Hotel, for their support of the Switch-On in Market Square.
- John Searle Fun Fair, for bringing joy and excitement with their funfair attractions.
- Over 60 stallholders, whose incredible selection of gifts, food, and crafts made the market a bustling hub of holiday shopping and cheer.
Cllr Annette Eyre shared her thoughts on the night:
“This year’s Christmas Lights Switch-On was truly magical, with the addition of a second switch-on at the Assembly Rooms making it even more special. Switching the lights on with Elsa and Olaf, seeing Father Christmas, the Snow Queen, and so many talented performers come together to create such a joyful celebration was heartwarming. A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this event so successful.”
With the town now illuminated by festive lights, the Christmas season is officially underway.