Derry prepares itself for surge of festive cheer as council reveal Christmas celebration plans

Christmas is guaranteed to sparkle in the North West with Derry City and Strabane District Council revealing details of its 2016 Christmas programme, crammed with fun festivities certain to keep everyone entertained.

Christmas light switch on dates are now confirmed for Derry~Londonderry on Thursday 17th November from 7.00pm, Strabane on Saturday 19th November from 2.00pm, Castlederg on Thursday 24th November from 7.00pm and Newtownstewart on Thursday 1st December from 4.00pm and a Council spokesperson has said Santa has confirmed he’ll be bringing some special guests and of course some festive cheer with him, so make sure you’re there early!

Once he’s ‘dashed’ off from his switch on duties Santa has also confirmed he’ll be checking out the ‘Sound of Lights’ trail through the historic quarters of the city, Spencer Road in the Waterside area and Strabane Town.

The trail will be available for everyone to enjoy during the Christmas season with art, music, light installations, projections and performances at a number of cultural venues and outdoor spaces.

The mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Hilary McClintock encouraged everyone to join in the festive fun and get into the spirit of Christmas by getting involved in the programme.

Speaking at the launch she said, ‘This is fantastic programme of Christmas events for our residents and visitors to enjoy.

‘There is something special for everyone this Christmas and a magical wonderland throughout the city and district will soon be revealed!

"With some great accommodation offers and a warm welcome guaranteed on arrival, this Council area will be one of the top places to visit for a Christmas break.

"Alongside the annual favourites such as the light switch on’s and Christmas carol singing there is a few new additions to the programme including a Christmas Wonderland, robotic elves, tall tales from Hans Christian Andersen, an opportunity plant your own Christmas Tree and a Christmas Tree Festival at our historic St. Columb’s Cathedral!

‘They’ll be lights, laughter, late night openings, a Guildhall Christmas Craft Fair and Christmas Markets for shoppers keen to pick up something special and there will be the three day fashion event of the year – Fashion Fest to enjoy, bringing a little glitz and glamour to the programme."

Jacqueline Whoriskey, Festival and Events Manager at Derry City and Strabane District Council added:

"Everyone involved in putting together the programme is very proud of it and is looking forward to it beginning.

"We are expecting a huge turnout at all the Christmas light switch on’s and looking forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to the area in the run up to Christmas.

"The family-friendly activities and events are guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit. Events will take place at spaces and venues right across the new council district making them accessible to all."

For further details on Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Festive Time Programme visit www.derrystrabane.com/christmas.