Blackburn's Christmas Lights Switch-On Event announced

Blackburn’s 2024 Christmas lights switch on will be called ‘Circus of The Moon’ and will feature light projections, circus performers, workshops, live music and markets and a captivating stage show – bringing a carnival atmosphere to the town centre.

The event, organised by Blackburn Business Improvement District (BID) and supported by Blackburn with Darwen Council and the newly launched Discover Blackburn website, will be free to attend and visitors will also have free access to The Museum of the Moon during the event, offering an opportunity to view the moon installation in Blackburn Cathedral.

The event will be hosted by Aleeza and Aisha, dynamic young presenters from One Voice Blackburn, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages. Throughout the day there will be roaming circus performers as well as circus skills workshops where visitors can try out a variety of circus skills.

The monthly vintage and art market will move into the Bureau for the day, open 11am – 4pm, where shoppers can enjoy unique shopping, good food and creative ambience as well as a chance to check out the Bureau’s new café where visitors can relax with a coffee or hot chocolate and freshly baked cakes.

In addition to this, local talent from theatre and performing arts schools, including Lancashire Dance Academy, Zoe Taylor Dance, Bernese Theatre School, Blackburn Musical Theatre Company, Katrina’s Dance & Arts Academy, and Made For Stage, will perform themed routines inspired by the Circus of the Moon.

To crown the evening, Blackburn’s Christmas lights will be turned on in a Light Launch Sequence featuring a special performance by Pop Up Global. The night will end with a breathtaking laser light show after the big switch-on of the town's dazzling Christmas display.

Straight after the Switch-On, head back to The Bureau for an unforgettable evening of jazz, soul and folk with singer/songwriters Jack Watkins, Jacob Reddy, John Witherspoon and guests from 7pm-10.3-pm.  Tickets are available for this brilliant live music night from Blackburn Gigs .

Catherine Price, Blackburn BID Manager, said:
“We’re thrilled to bring the Circus of the Moon event to life as part of the Festival of the Moon. This event will transform Blackburn town centre with light, sound, and performances that will create a unique atmosphere. It’s always a key moment in our calendar, drawing thousands into the town centre, and we have a packed programme of events in store for the festive season.”

Councillor Quesir Mahmood, the Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and Executive Member for Growth and Development, said:
‘This year we have a fantastic line up of events planned to welcome the festive season in Blackburn, that will be bigger and better than ever. On the night of the Christmas lights switch on, local company Pop Up Global will be putting on a showstopping performance, and for the first time, we’re introducing a laser light show which I’ve heard is going to be truly impressive. I can’t wait to see the team’s hard work come together and look forward to seeing plenty of you there.’

This year, the Circus of the Moon Christmas Lights Celebration will be a key highlight of the Festival of the Moon, a broader festival that kicks off on 5th November. The centrepiece, The Museum of the Moon, a stunning touring light installation, will be showcased at Blackburn Cathedral. As the full moon rises on 15th November, a wider programme will unfold, offering light projections, lunar-themed workshops, performances, and live music throughout the town centre. The Blackburn Festival of Light on 30th November will cap off the month, lighting up the town with creative displays.

For more information and timings visit discoverblackburn.co.uk