Friday 1st December from 5 – 8pm
On Friday 1st December 2023, the centre of Barnard Castle will be lit up by a magical community evening event, being organised by TCR Hub in partnership with Barnard Castle Town Council, Teesdale & District Lions Club, Barnard Castle Lights Committee, English Heritage, The Witham and local businesses, supported by community groups such as The Clique.
As is the tradition, the evening will include the Barnard Castle Christmas Lights Switch On as well as Andrew Nicolson’s entertaining compering but also be embellished by a Lantern Parade from The Witham to the Castle inspired by the theme of The Night Sky. Local school children, young people, families and all are welcome to come and create their own lanterns and costumes which will be part of the parade, including classes from Montalbo, Green Lane, St Mary’s school as well as Teesdale School and Barnard Castle School.
Barnard Castle Christmas Lights Switch On has taken place on Woodleigh and Scar Top Area of Barnard Castle for over twenty years and in recent years has incorporated Flatts Road.
The event includes the switching on of a Christmas Tree, donated by Raby Estates, a visit from Father Christmas, Live Music and Entertainment. The event has traditionally been organised and delivered by Barnard Castle Town Council.TCR also are working with partners to bring light installations and an Inflatable Snow Globe on Woodleigh as well as Santa’s Grotto at the Methodist Hall and a Big Carol Sing at Scar Top.
- Light Parade from the Witham to within the Castle Walls
- Sparkling Light Installations on Scar Top and within the Castle
- Snowglobe outside Woodleigh
- Music and Singing outside the Castle
- Light Show with Penella Bee on Scar Top
- Late night Shopping and Refreshments
- Traditional Tree Lighting
If you’re interested in making a lantern, the community workshops are taking place on Saturday 18th and 25th November from 10 to 12.30pm at TCR Hub. Please check here for availability. TCR can also provide materials for people to make their creations at home but you do need to confirm you’re going to be part of the parade.
Let’s make this Christmas extra special together.
Toi find out more you can follow us on Facebook and book workshops here.
With thanks to Barnard Castle Town Council, Barnard Castle Christmas Lights, Durham County Council, County Councillors, the Clique, Teesdale Lions, the Witham and many many more partners and supporters.
