The entertainment programme will include live performances from The Sussex Stompers and Con Brio, together with Christmas carols performed by students from Hailsham Academy and Hailsham Academy ahead of the lighting ceremony.
Father Christmas, courtesy of Hailsham Rotary Club, will also be attending the event to meet children throughout the afternoon.
Hailsham FM will broadcast live from the town centre, providing music and event coverage, while Hailsham Parish Church will once again welcome visitors following the lights switch-on by serving complimentary hot chocolate and marshmallows.
To facilitate the event, Hailsham High Street will be closed to traffic from approximately 11am until 9pm, allowing pedestrians to move safely between the various attractions and activities taking place.
Councillor Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Town Council’s Communities Committee said: “The Christmas Lights Switch-On has become one of Hailsham’s best-attended annual community events and provides an important opportunity for residents, businesses and local organisations to come together at the start of the festive season. We were extremely pleased with the response to last year’s event and are looking forward to building on that success.”
“As well as providing a programme of entertainment for families, the event also supports the local economy by encouraging people to visit the town centre and make use of Hailsham’s shops, cafés, market traders and other businesses. The Town Council is pleased to continue working in partnership with community organisations to deliver an event that benefits the wider town.”
Tony Lee, Operations and Facilities Manager at Hailsham Town Council, said: “Preparations for this year’s event are already well underway, with officers working closely alongside partner organisations, performers and volunteers to ensure the day runs smoothly and safely. The programme has been designed to appeal to visitors of all ages while maintaining the strong community focus that has become a hallmark of the event.”
“The success of the Christmas Lights Switch-On is made possible through the support of local organisations, businesses and volunteers, and we are grateful to everyone involved in helping to deliver what has become one of the highlights of Hailsham’s annual events calendar.”
The Town Council is encouraging market traders and local businesses wishing to participate in this year’s event to apply for a stall. For further information or to book a pitch, contact 01323 841702 or email markets@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.
