Hundreds turn out for Christmas light switch-on

Brighton city centre was lit up with sparkling lights this evening (November 16), as the big light switch-on event marked the start of the festive season.
Festive phrases in North StreetFestive phrases in North Street
Festive phrases in North Street

The big switch-on party in East Street drew in the crowds, kicking off at 5pm with songs from 40-strong women’s choir We Bop, angelic singers from Singing’s Cool and renowned group The Theatre Workshop, and comedic group AFOUR.

Gogglebox favourites and Sussex residents Chris Butland-Steed and Stephen Webb were joined on stage by The Snowman, and did the honour of switching on the Christmas lights just after 6.30pm.

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The city centre lights are sprinkled throughout North Laine and The Lanes, with festive phrases like 'Ding Dong' and 'Twinkle' on North Street and Western Road, as well as a canopy of lights at the Clock Tower.

Festive phrases in North StreetFestive phrases in North Street
Festive phrases in North Street

The £75,000 for the lights are funded by the 517 businesses that make up Brilliant Brighton, a business improvement district for the city centre.

Gavin Stewart, CEO of Brilliant Brighton, said: “We love organising the Christmas lights-switch on and it was brilliant to see so many people celebrating the start of the festive season with us.

“Thank you to Juice 107.2 and Chestnut Tree House for assisting us to host the event and our Christmas lights sponsor, Southern Water for helping us put on a truly splendid display for locals and visitors to the city to enjoy during the Christmas period.”

This year’s Christmas lights will light up the city centre until early January.

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