With a jam-packed roster of activities taking place throughout the whole day, not just in the High Street, but also in The Forum Shopping Centre, Phoenix House and St Michaels Church there was surely something for everyone this year.
Dudes & Divas Dance - 07549 752354
I’ve lost count of the number of people who commented on how busy the High Street was and I’ve not just referring to the large crowd that gathered for the switch on itself, it was busy all day long.
9yr old Megan with bother Alfie aged 5
Besides the Big Switch On, and Father Christmas in the Forum you had the opportunity to see Zumba with Tonics Fitness Centre , The McManigan Academy of Irish Dance, Dudes & Divas Dance, AJ's Academy of Dance and Drama, Irish Dance with Reel Eire, YAK Dance, the Swale Sings Choir, plus music from Jenny Cazally, Sounds Familiar, Encore and The Narratones.
McManigan Academy of Irish Dance
Traders lined the streets and the Swale Arts Forum had their very popular ‘Frozen’ display and we must also mention the Christmas Tree Festival at St Michaels Church.
Sounds Familiar
The day cumulated with Santa’s parade, followed with festive carols from The choir of Grove Park School, prior to two lucky pupils who along with Father Christmas switched the lights on.
Sittingbourne Christmas Lights Association
Last year’s event was, I think, the catalyst for creating a much more positive outlook for Sittingbourne and the types of events it is capable of staging. Indeed 2014 will be remembered as the year that the people of Sittingbourne started to believe in our town again.
Lets build on what we’re started and many, many thanks to the wonderful people from the Sittingbourne Christmas Lights Association who work so hard all year round to make this occasion possible.
Andy Hudson
Sittingbourne.Me