Get set to light up Market Harborough for Christmas

The annual event organised by Harborough District Council is taking place on Saturday 23 November in The Square from 5-8pm. The switch on of the lights will take place at 6.30pm by the council’s Chairman, Cllr Peter Elliott, supported by special guests. The Christmas tree, which will be lit up on the night, is being provided by Market Harborough Building Society.

The night will be filled with entertainment and special guests including the return of the much loved De Montfort Hall’s pantomime Dame Jack Ballard. Throughout the evening stilt walkers, LED hula-hoopers, jugglers and a range of live music will be entertaining the crowds. Harborough FM also join us on the evening, providing music and compering. 

Santa will be making an appearance, along with a rodeo reindeer and there will be a perfect picture opportunity on the night with plenty of surprises in store. The best dressed shop window competition will be launched alongside the reindeer trail and the popular Christmas Food and Drink Fair will be running in The Square all day from 10am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday 22, 23, 24 November serving an array of winter warmers to enjoy plus additional gift stalls. 

Late Night Shopping, organised by Harbs Collective and supported by the council, is back on Thursday 28 November to really get your Christmas shopping off to a flying start. Harborough Market is just one of the many businesses opening late, with traders extending their hours so you can shop, chat, eat and drink. Throughout the festive season, the regular Artisan and Farmer’s markets will also continue on The Square. 

Please note that to ensure safety for everyone attending the switch on of the lights, some roads will be closed from 4-9pm. They are the bridge on Northampton Road, St Mary’s Road at the junction of Adam and Eve Street and at the junction of High Street and Coventry Road. 

Cllr Jo Asher, Cabinet lead for Culture, Leisure, Economy and Tourism, said: “Christmas is fast approaching and I’m really looking forward to the celebrations. With lots of activities taking place there is something for everyone to enjoy. We are really pleased to be supporting the return of Late Night Shopping again this year to help support our local businesses and retailers. Christmas is a time for the community to come together so please join us for this wonderful celebration.” 

Cllr Peter Elliott, Chairman of Harborough District Council, said: “I am really looking forward to switching on the Christmas lights alongside special guests this year. There will be lots of stalls, food, entertainment and live music and I do hope residents and visitors enjoy the illumination of the lights. I hope everyone has a wonderful time welcoming the festive season to Market Harborough.”

More details of Christmas events across the district will be shared on our social media channels. In the meantime, please visit www.visitharborough.com/events/month/ to find the latest upcoming festive events taking place district wide.