Family-friendly Christmas Lights event a shining success

Tap dancing elves, schoolchildren singing carols, Panto characters and Elsa from Frozen helped make the Sevenoaks Christmas Lights an event to remember [Nov 30].

Around 6,000 people came to enjoy the fairground rides, food stalls and live entertainment with many families visiting the Santa’s Grotto to start off the Christmas season in the town.

And visitors gave a thumbs up for the change of timing for the Switch On event which this year was moved from a Friday evening to a family-friendly daytime Saturday afternoon slot from 3pm to 5.30pm.

The Lights were switched on at 4.30pm by the Mayor with the help of entertainers from Snow White at the Stag. Carol singing by Amherst School choir charmed the crowds, a drumming display by the Old School Samba Band got toes tapping and children enjoyed the Nativity Trail organised by St Nicholas’ Church.

One resident contacted organisers Sevenoaks Town Council to express their thanks: “I would like to just say how great the Christmas light switch on was yesterday.

“The timing was ideal as the little ones could enjoy the event before it got too dark and busy with adults/older children. It also really gave the local shops a fantastic opportunity to be seen by everyone.

“I’m really glad we have such lovely events in Sevenoaks that bring all the families together, thank you!”

Visitor Kathy Walsh passed on her thanks: “I am very grateful to the Crowd Control team. These gentlemen realized that as I am in a wheelchair I couldn't get through and made a path through for me.

“They were friendly and efficient. Top marks. I really enjoyed my little outing because of them! Great guys!”

Other comments on social media included “Thank you to all involved” and “A wonderful night.”

The event was also supported by local businesses on social media. A spokesperson for Danish Collection commented on Instagram: “Thanks so much for joining us when the lights were switched on in Sevenoaks.

“It is imperative for our high street to have this support from our local community - a lively high street is so important for the town.”

A spokesperson for Bligh's Meadow posted: “How magical was the Sevenoaks Light Switch On? It was wonderful to see the community come together to celebrate.”

Local business Life on High commented: “It was really lovely - well done all.”