The first ever virtual light switch-on event is set to take place on place on Friday 27 November 2020 at 6pm.

Following the cancellation of this year’s light switch-on events, Warwick District Council announced last month that a virtual switch-on event would take place instead, providing the opportunity for residents to see the lights switched on in the town centres from home but also to take part with their neighbours, building on the strong community links forged in the wake of the pandemic this year.

The event will go live on the Council’s Facebook page and YouTube channel simultaneously from 5.45pm on Friday 27 November, with pre-recorded performances by local acts streamed in advance of the lights being switched on at 6pm.

Residents are invited to take part by sharing photos of their own lights at home, as well as sharing photos and memories from past events that will be shown across the day on the Council’s social media platforms in the lead up to this event.

In addition, the Council will also be making various colouring-in and activity sheets available for children to download in advance of the day.

Councillor Richard Hales, Portfolio Holder for Finance & Business, said: “We want as many of our residents as possible to join with us in marking the start of the festive season in true Warwick district fashion.

“Though we can’t be together, we can still meet virtually to celebrate an unprecedented year in which we have seen our communities come together in the best way to support each other, and I hope to see this community spirit reflected as we see streets light up together.

“Our town centre businesses will still be open throughout the Christmas season so I would urge everyone to shop local where possible and support them after what has been a difficult year for all of us.”

Residents are advised to follow the Council’s social media accounts and dedicated web page for more information that will be released between now and the event.