Aycliffe Town Centre burst into festive brilliance on Friday evening, 28th November, as the community gathered for the annual Christmas lights switch-on, officially marking the start of the holiday season. Despite temperatures well below seasonal averages, a remarkably large number of residents turned out, creating a warm and lively atmosphere that defied the cold.
From mid afternoon, families and visitors filled the town centre to explore a bustling Christmas food market, which featured a wide range of seasonal delights and handmade goods. Baccanalia’s traders offered an extensive selection of festive food treats and gift-worthy artisan products. The scents of mulled spices, baked goods and savoury street food filled the air, adding to the sense of celebration.
A rich programme of live entertainment kept spirits high throughout the event. Performances from Shine Choir, McAdam Performing Arts and the Aycliffe & Brancepeth Brass Band brought a mix of traditional and contemporary Christmas music with harmonies and brass arrangements echoing across the town centre mall. Each group drew enthusiastic applause from the crowd, many of whom gathered early to secure a good view.
The excitement continued as younger visitors eagerly lined up to meet Santa Claus in his festive grotto. Supported by the Great Aycliffe Rotary Club, Santa greeted children with warm smiles and handed out gifts, adding an extra touch of magic to the occasion. Rotary volunteers helped manage the steady flow of families ensuring every child received a memorable moment.
Meanwhile, Aycliffe Radio maintained the festive mood, broadcasting Christmas favourites and providing backing tracks for the performances. Their presence has become a much-loved tradition at the annual switch-on event, and this year they once again delivered an uplifting soundtrack that kept the crowd singing along.
Adding to the spectacle, visitors were treated to a visit from three of Santa’s reindeers as well as appearances from a dancing Christmas tree, who entertained children and adults alike, and a playful Elf on a flying bike, whose energetic antics became a highlight of the evening. These whimsical characters roamed the event, posing for photos and bringing smiles wherever they went.
As darkness fell, the anticipation grew for the main moment of the evening. The countdown to the Christmas lights switch-on, led by Mayor and Mayoress Ken and Elaine Robson, was met with cheers and as the town centre lit up with sparkling displays, the crowd erupted into applause. Shimmering trees, illuminated decorations and glowing archways transformed the area into a winter wonderland.
Event organisers expressed their gratitude to all who attended and supported the festivities, noting their pleasant surprise at the impressive turnout given the chilly conditions. “The community really came together tonight,” organisers said. “Despite the cold, the atmosphere was fantastic and it was wonderful to see so many residents start the festive season with us.”
The evening concluded with families lingering to enjoy the lights, food and entertainment, capturing photos and soaking in the festive spirit. With such a successful turnout and a joyful start to the season, Aycliffe Town Centre looks forward to a month filled with further seasonal celebrations and community events.
Pop-Up Indoor Cinema
Festive entertainment continues with an indoor pop-up cinema showing children’s Christmas favourites.
Saturday 6th December:
9.30am – The Polar Express
11.30am – The Grinch
Saturday 20th December:
10.00am – Elf
12.00pm – Home Alone
2.00pm – National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Seating is available and admission is FREE. Located in Unit 17, next door to Boyes on Beveridge Way.
Ice Skating Rink
If you love skating – or want to give it a go – don’t miss the synthetic ice skating rink on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th December, 10am-4pm on Beveridge Way. Sessions are £3.00 for twenty minutes – skates are provided for both children and adults.