Though autumn is still in full swing, Frome Town Council is already embracing the festive spirit and inviting everyone to mark their calendars for one of the town’s most enchanting events of the year: the annual Christmas Light Switch-On.
This year’s celebration will take place on Friday, November 21, in the town centre, featuring an evening full of joyous festivities led by the Mayor of Frome, Cllr Anita Collier. Having missed the public switch-on event in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions, this occasion holds special significance for her.
“Frome’s Light Switch On is truly a magical night,” Cllr Collier shared. “It not only signals the start of the festive season but also brings our community together. Whether you’re joining the lantern parade or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s something captivating for all ages. I’m excited to see the town glow once again this November.”
READ MORE: Somerset Council to Revise Garden Waste Collection Schedules for 53,000 Subscribers
READ MORE: Developer Offers Wiltshire Landowners Up to £50,000 to Avoid Objecting to Solar Park
The heart of the celebration is the much-loved lantern parade, which continues to grow each year. Stunning handmade lanterns will illuminate the route as they travel down North Parade, accompanied by the vibrant rhythms of a Samba Band. Crowds are encouraged to line the streets for the perfect view.
The evening’s festivities will begin just before 6 pm with the Mayor’s arrival, culminating in the official lights switch-on around 6:45 pm. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of festive food and drink stalls and a special visit from Father Christmas.
Lantern making remains central to the event, offering a creative and inclusive way for everyone to participate. This year’s theme is ‘Peace,’ capturing the spirit of the season in a hopeful and heartfelt message. Community workshops will be held in the weeks leading up to the event, along with lantern kits available for those who want to craft at home.
Mel Day and Aliss Vaas from Frome Lanterns explained, “The dove is a simple yet powerful symbol of peace, especially at Christmas. We can already envision how magical North Parade will look with cascading dove and heart lanterns on the night. We have family and community workshops planned, as well as a specialist workshop for experienced crafters. Schools also play a big role, with two middle school workshops and materials available to other local schools online.”
For more information on the lantern making workshops or to book your place, visit the Frome Lanterns website at www.fromelanterns.co.uk. Additional event details will also be posted soon on the Frome Town Council website at www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk.