Provost Liz Grant today revealed that on 22 November a spectacular and star-studded event will take place in Perth city centre to celebrate the Christmas lights switch on, which is part of the Winter Festival.
Crowds attending the switch on will be treated to a performance by Peter Andre, best known for his music and television career, achieving two number one albums and numerous number one hit singles, including the smash hit Mysterious Girl. Peter will be joined on the Main Stage in Tay Street by 70s and 80s super-group Boney M. featuring Maizie Williams, the swing music group and Britain’s Got Talent Finalists, Jack Pack, Lorraine Crosby and her band, and rising music stars, Sienna, from Kinross.
Perth city centre will be illuminated by thousands of lights when Provost Grant switches them on. This will be the culmination of an afternoon of entertainment and celebrations in the city centre, including a parade led by Santa and Provost Grant, and a colourful fireworks display. The day will also include local groups on the Community Stage, along with big name stars on the Main Stage.
Perth Provost Liz Grant, said: “I’m delighted that Peter Andre will give us a wonderful performance alongside Boney M. featuring Maizie Williams, Jack Pack and Sienna. Perth has become known for its fantastic events and this year’s lights switch on promises to be bigger and better than ever.
“For the first time, the celebrations will continue over two days. The entire weekend will be filled with unique events and family-friendly entertainment, and community-led performances will showcase a wealth of local talent.
“It is sure to encourage many people to visit our area and spend time and money in the city by making the most of the fantastic shopping, dining and many experiences on offer.”
For the first time, celebrations for the lights switch on will be spread over the weekend of 22 and 23 November, lasting two days, rather than one. The Winter Festival entertainment will begin each day at 12 noon.
Perth city centre’s streets will be transformed into winter wonderlands, inspired by favourite Christmas films. St John Street will be dressed as Narnia from The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and George Street will be themed as Miracle on 34th Street.
Winter Festival-goers will enjoy a variety of street entertainment, including ice sculptures, street food, and fun fair rides, and will have the opportunity to meet Santa himself, as well as his reindeer and huskies.
An outdoor ice rink will be erected by Harry’s Bar on South Methven Street. Open from Saturday 22 until Sunday 30 November, between 10am and 4pm, advance booking is advised from Perth Playhouse or www.perthplayhouse.co.uk/
The air will be filled with music as local community, schools and church groups perform at the Singing Tree at Horsecross Plaza. The festive stage will be in place from Saturday 22 November until Sunday 7 December
The objective of the Winter Festival is to generate additional economic benefits for the city through increased expenditure by visitors and residents while also contributing to the vibrancy and cultural life of the city.
Last year an estimated £1.5 million was generated for the local economy from Perth’s Christmas lights switch on alone and around 90,000 people attended throughout the day, reinforcing the area’s reputation as a leading events destination.
The Christmas lights switch on is one of many events taking place in the area until February as part of the Winter Festival, which stretches between October and February.
For further information about what’s on and to download a free Winter Guide, visitwww.pkc.gov.uk/winterguide and www.perthcity.co.uk.
