Rochdale Christmas Lights Switch On

Date published: 26 November 2016

Thousands of people enjoyed the Christmas Lights Switch On and Rochdale Festive Market and on Saturday (26 November).

The Town Hall was bathed in colourful lights as Father Christmas turned on the Christmas lights from the Town Hall balcony.

The Mayor and Mayoress, Ray and Elaine Dutton, were on the balcony with Father Christmas. Mayor Dutton said: "How proud I am to be standing here today, looking across to our recently reopened River Roch. The new Gracie Fields statue and all the new paving around the Town Hall. There is still more to be done, and more improvements are coming, but it's clear for everyone to see how our town is moving forward.

Prior to the lights switch on, an afternoon of family fun featured a spectacular pendulum wave machine and other activities from the Travelling Light Circus, plus a penalty shoot-out competition with Rochdale AFC.

Visitors also had the opportunity to try out circus tricks with Skylight Circus, and a host of local acts performed throughout the afternoon, including singer Gem O'Reilly, Rochdale Music Service, and the Rochdale School of Rock.

A lantern parade took place along Yorkshire Street and The Esplanade.

Mayor Dutton added: "This year we should all make a pledge that we will buy local, and not just for Christmas. By buying local we will be supporting shops and those who work in them.

"Thank you to all our performers and everyone who has worked so hard behind the scenes to put the day together. A big well done to all the children who took part in the lantern parade, you all looked wonderful.

Rochdale Christmas Lights Switch On Lantern Parade
©Rochdale Online