*Community Celebration Features Free Activities, Live Music, and Enchanting Fairies and Elves Themed Parade*
Ashington Town Council is delighted to announce the return of the much-anticipated Christmas Light Switch-On and Lantern Parade, promising a truly magical start to the festive season for the whole community.
*Event Details*
The spectacular celebration will take place on Thursday, 13th November 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM along Station Road (one-way section) and at the Masonic Hall on John Street.
As well as funding from Ashington Town Council’s events budget, this year’s activities are part of Northumberland County Council’s Animating Ashington Autumn/Winter Festival - a programme of events across the town being funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and North East Combined Authority, with the North East Combined Authority as lead authority.
*Free Family Activities*
From 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, families can enjoy completely free Christmas activities at the Masonic Hall, including hands-on lantern making workshops. These creative sessions will help children prepare for the evening’s magical Fairies & Elves Themed lantern parade while getting into the festive spirit. There is a prize for the best dressed elf and fairy and all children taking part in the Parade will receive a certificate and memento of the event.
*Live Entertainment*
The afternoon and evening will be filled with live music and heartwarming community carol singing featuring the renowned Ashington & District Male Voice Choir. Their beautiful harmonies will create the perfect festive atmosphere as the community gathers to celebrate.
*Fairies and Elves Themed Lantern Parade*
The highlight of the evening will be the enchanting Fairies and Elves themed lantern parade. Children are encouraged to dress as fairies and elves, with prizes awarded for the best dressed participants in each category. Every child taking part will receive a special certificate and memento to commemorate this magical evening.
*The Festivities Continue*
The celebration doesn’t end with Thursday’s light switch-on! Families are encouraged not to miss Friday 14th November’s 12 Days of Christmas Themed Market, running from 11:30 AM to 7:00 PM, featuring a very special guest appearance by Mrs Claus herself. The Market is being organised by Money Tree Crafters and Traders.
*Building Community Spirit*
“We’re absolutely thrilled to bring this magical celebration to Ashington,” said Cllr Mark Purvis, Business Chair of Ashington Town Council. “The Christmas Light Switch-On and Lantern Parade represents the very best of our community spirit.
From the free activities for families to the beautiful performances by our local choir, this event showcases what makes Ashington such a special place to live.”
The event promises to be a wonderful opportunity for families, friends, and neighbours to come together and officially welcome the Christmas season with joy, creativity, and community pride.
*Get Involved*
All activities are free of charge, and families are encouraged to arrive early to make the most of the lantern-making workshops and festive activities.
For more information, visit www.ashingtontowncouncil.gov.uk or contact Ashington Town Council at 01670 624521
