15,000 crowd attend sparkling event

Light Switch On 2023

An estimated 15,000 strong crowd attended this year’s Carlisle Christmas Lights Switch-On.

The one and only Chesney Hawkes headlined the event, held in the city centre on Sunday 19 November.

There was also a guest appearance by Carlisle United Manager Paul Simpson and saxophonist Vicki Watson took to the centre stage as part of this year’s packed programme, hosted by Robbie Dee.

Organised by Cumberland Council, the Christmas Lights Switch-On event also showcased local community groups and performers including Castle Carrock Primary School, Studio A Dance Company, Committed2Rock Community Choir and Newtown Primary School.

The Mayor of Carlisle, Cllr Abdul Harid and Chair of Cumberland Council, Cllr Carni McCarron-Holmes triggered a galaxy of Christmas lights in the city centre.

Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:

“The Carlisle Christmas Lights Switch-On attracted thousands of visitors to the city. I’d like to thank everyone involved in making the event a success and for bringing some sparkle to the city centre.

“There are some wonderful festive events being organised in Cumberland this Christmas - including Taste Cumbria in Cockermouth and Carlisle’s Christmas Market. Please visit events in the Cumberland area and shop local. Our businesses need your support.”

To find out about events in your area visit the Discover Carlisle website.