Oldham's countdown to Christmas begins as the festive lights are switched on

Date published: 22 November 2021

Oldham's Christmas lights have been switched on, marking the beginning of the countdown to Christmas.

Hundreds of Oldhamers turned out on Saturday for Oldham’s Festive Fairy Tale event – a fun-filled day with street entertainers, stilt walkers, magicians and music.

There was an inspirational performance of Twinkle and the Mechanical Light Machine, created in partnership with Oldham Theatre Workshop and Emergency Exit Arts, followed by a colourful firework finale.

Cllr Arooj Shah, Oldham Council Leader said: "It was a fantastic day, just what our residents needed after the challenges of the last couple of years.

"I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to bring back our Christmas calendar of events, they’re such a perfect way of thanking our residents for all their hard work throughout the pandemic in helping us to bring down our Covid case rates.

"It’s important that everyone has a happy and safe Christmas, so please take a test before attending any of these events.

"I’d like to thank everyone that came along to celebrate with us and our team that worked hard to make this such a special event for all to enjoy.”

Next Saturday (27 November) Santa’s Reindeer Parade is back with festive floats, music, street theatre and nostalgic yuletide fun.

The parade starts at 1pm at Parliament Square before heading to High Street, Albion Street, Market Place and finishing back at Parliament Square at 1.30pm where there will be a ‘Reindeer meet and greet’ followed by lots of festive entertainment.

Other events returning this Christmas include Brass Monkeys Festival on Saturday 11 December with performances from Black Dyke Band, Uppermill Band, Back Chat Brass and some of the best young musicians from Oldham Music Service.

There are also a number of district Christmas Light Switch-On events taking place across the borough.

A spokesperson for Oldham Council said: "Oldham has a wonderfully diverse range of shops, restaurants, and market stalls for you to explore – you’ll be sure to find delicious sweet and savoury treats, a variety of festive gifts and Christmas party fashions."

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