The annual Christmas Lights Festival lit up the town with festive cheer this weekend, as the town centre was packed with families, friends, and community spirit.
The two-day event, which marked the official start of the festive season, was a resounding success, bringing together residents and visitors alike for a day filled with joy and celebration.
From street theatre, local artists, festive crafts, giant snow globe, market stalls, street food, balloon modelling and vintage fairground rides – every corner of the festival radiated warmth and excitement.
Highlights of the festival included performances by talented local musicians, dazzling routines by dance clubs, schools, live bands and singers and a variety of entertainers who kept crowds smiling throughout the event, including the very popular Gainsborough’s Got Talent.
The town’s businesses joined in the festivities, staying open late to welcome visitors and showcase their offerings, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Marshall’s Yard was also open for the two days which included a Christmas light switch on and lots of entertainment, drawing crowds.
Stalls offering handmade crafts, delicious treats, and unique gifts lined the streets, adding to the festive spirit. The aroma of seasonal foods and the sound of laughter filled the air, while children’s activities and live entertainment ensured fun for all ages.
Supporting Local Business
Local business owners and traders were thrilled with the turnout and support. Baz Hunter of Alfie Deli and Clock House remarked:
“Trade-wise, it has been very good. It has been fantastic to see the whole event so well supported. It’s so nice to see businesses stay open and all benefit from the extra trade.
“It felt very Christmassy. It really has been brilliant and had a buzz in the town. It’s nice to see Gainsborough coming to life. I really love the way the council is trying to turn the town around.”
Nikki Panther from Nikki’s Cheesecakes, who sold out on both days of the event, shared her excitement:
“This year has got to have been the best ever. We had a constant flow of people all the time. There has been a buzzing atmosphere.”
Street trader Rebecca Steele of The Huntsman Game added:
“It has been really good. There has been a nice steady flow throughout the event. The atmosphere has been brilliant.”
Perry Greenwood, owner of Ohlala, was thrilled to take part in the festival for the first time:
“It’s our first time trading here, and we are very happy. It has been very busy and a great atmosphere.”
Local families enjoyed the festivities, with John Cottiss attending alongside his partner Jaclyn and daughters Everly (4) and Jenny (5).
“It has been amazing and fantastic for the kids. It feels more Christmassy in the town than it ever has before, so busy and such a nice atmosphere.”
Resident Denise Bohlman, who attended with her 5-year-old granddaughter, enjoyed making some magical reindeer food to put out on Christmas Eve. She said:
“It has been amazing with so much to do.”
Meanwhile, Mikey Smith, who is starring in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at Trinity Arts Centre this Christmas, was on hand to entertain the crowds over both days along side the Wicked Queen and Snow white herself.
Sharing his experience, he said:
“All the locals have had lots of enthusiasm and supported all the acts we have had. They’ve been kind enough to laugh at some of my jokes, but not all! What a perfect way to get Christmas going in Gainsborough. I can’t wait to welcome everyone to Trinity Arts Centre for this year’s panto. Gainsborough is the best audience. P.S. Please buy tickets!”
Adding to the festivities, students from Queen Elizabeth’s High School wowed the audience with a spectacular performance. Dave Rigby, Head of Drama at QEHS, expressed his pride:
“It has been amazing. We are really keen to get students to perform at professional events with industry-standard equipment, and this will be something they will remember forever. The atmosphere has been really good. Everyone backstage has been brilliant, really supportive, and the crowds have been amazing. It has been a phenomenal experience, and we are already booked in for next year.”
This event has been made possible by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, as well as generous contributions from Gainsborough Town Council, The Egg Stop, Heapham, Gainsborough Building Services, Elite Signs, PING Golf, and The Elm Cottage.
We would also like to say a huge thank you to Place Immersive who was our delivery partner for this fantastic event and to the Trinity Arts Centre.
Can we ask for one more thing? If you came to our events on Friday and Saturday, please complete our survey! You could be in with a chance to win a special Christmas gift in our prize draw! Good luck! Christmas Lights Festival Survey
For more information about upcoming events in West Lindsey visit: West Lindsey Events
Christmas In Gainsborough
Wrap up warm and get ready to discover Gainsborough and the surrounding area this Christmas. Delve into local history, enjoy a nearby family attraction or step out into the picturesque Lincolnshire countryside. Have a great day out this festive season and take home some amazing memories.
Soak up the festive atmosphere with great events throughout the holiday season, indulge in delicious food and drink or take time to discover the town’s fascinating past.
Click here to find out more – Christmas In Gainsborough.
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