This year’s Christmas celebrations in Mansfield will begin with the annual Big Switch On event for the town’s festive lights.

The family fun event in November will be followed by a month-long festive market and an ice rink, which will be launched in Mansfield for the first time in December.

Attracting thousands of spectators every year, the Big Switch On, to be held on Sunday, 18th November, will feature a variety of music acts, children’s entertainment, panto stars and Father Christmas before a spectacular laser show and fireworks display.

The day, which marks the beginning of the month-long Christmas Market, will include a marching band and festive activities in the Four Seasons Shopping Centre.

Other festive events include Mansfield Palace Theatre’s pantomime, Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs, Christmas artisan markets, late-night shopping, the Four Season’s grotto, and more.

The ice rink was given approval at a full meeting of Mansfield District Council.

The Mayor of Mansfield, Kate Allsop, said: “The Christmas lights switch-on event is well known for being a spectacular family show, which never fails to get everyone into the festive spirit.

“I’m really excited about this year as it marks the start of an even bigger programme of Christmas entertainment.
“The ice rink will be a real spectacle and I hope as many people as possible from Mansfield and the surrounding areas are able to come along and have a go.”

The month-long Christmas market is organised by Mansfield BID, with financial support from MDC.

The switch-on event is organised and funded by the council, with support from Mansfield 103.2 and the Four Seasons.

Pictured is the Mayor of Mansfield, Kate Allsop, with the Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Growth Cllr Dave Saunders, Cultural Services Manager Andrew Tucker, Director of Economic Growth Mike Robinson, Hayley Stroud from Four Seasons Shopping Centre, Warren 103.2 Radio Rabbit and panto stars.