Burnley town centre came alive with festive cheer on Saturday (15 November) as Burnley Believes returned in spectacular style, drawing thousands of visitors for a full day of free family entertainment, community celebration and a show-stopping fireworks finale that lit up the sky.
Organised by Discover Burnley, this year’s Christmas Lights Switch-On event delivered its most diverse programme yet and delighted crowds with the surprise return of a fireworks finale for the first time in six years.
Throughout the day Burnley’s streets and shopping areas buzzed with activity as families explored a packed timetable of free entertainment. The Makers, Bakers & Creators Gift Market welcomed shoppers, showcasing handmade gifts, crafts and festive treats from talented local traders.
Across Curzon Street and St James’s Street, families enjoyed free Christmas Crazy Golf, festive games with Burnley FC in the Community, face painting, walkabout acts and an action-packed fun fair. A free Family Trail, offering prizes and the chance to win a £50 gift card, proved especially popular with young explorers.
Hosted by Radio Burnley’s Lee and Phil, the Main Stage on St James’s Street was at the heart of the celebrations, showcasing Burnley’s incredible homegrown talent. Spectators enjoyed outstanding performances from Local Vocals, Next Level Dance, Burnley Youth Theatre presenting Oliver Twist, Ballet Education performing Snowflakes from The Nutcracker, Dynamic Dance Studio, Basically Cheer, Burnley College of Performing Arts, Burnley Panto Society, Rodeo Duo, St John’s C of E Primary School Choir and a juggling performance from AWOL Circus Arts. Pop sensation Channy closed the show with a special Christmas performance.
At 4pm, crowds lined the streets to witness the return of the magical Lantern Parade, produced in collaboration with the Diversity Festival and organised by Discover Burnley, Burnley BID, South West Burnley Community Action Network and Lancashire County Council. Led by the powerful rhythms of Batala Lancaster, the parade featured large scale puppets and lantern creations from local schools and community groups who also joined the parade.
At 5pm, thousands gathered for the highly anticipated Christmas Lights Switch-On, culminating in a magical, snow-filled finale and a surprise fireworks display which illuminated Burnley’s skyline, delivering a dazzling start to the festive season.
Laura Diffey, BID Programme Manager said:“ Burnley Believes is all about bringing our community together, supporting local talent, bringing footfall into the town and creating magical memories for families – and this year truly delivered. Seeing thousands enjoying the event and surprising everyone with the return of the fireworks made it a very special moment for the town.”
