‘TOP talent’ will be taking to the stage for Coventry’s Christmas lights switch-on on Wednesday (November 22).
The spectacular in the city centre is set to provide an evening full of entertainment, say organisers.
Thousands are expected for the event in Broadgate to see singer and Britain’s Got Talent and X-Factor judge, Alesha Dixon.
Free Radio favourites, JD and Roisin will host, and the evening also features Coundon Primary Choir, Elite Dance, The Upsiders, UnScripted, Thomas Teago and many more.
There will be a magical performance during the show from Vortex Creates and Highly Sprung, which is entitled Ready, Set, Snow! Christmas is go!
There will also be some fun with sports clubs Coventry City, Coventry Blaze, Wasps and Coventry Bears, with the help of IKEA.
Trish Willetts, Coventry BID manager, said the event between 5pm and 8pm will offer something for the whole family to enjoy.
“This is going to be the perfect way for everyone to start the holiday season properly and it’s going to be a lot of fun,” said Trish.
“Once again, the switch on is going to be a fantastic event and I cannot wait to see Alesha and all of the other performers take to the stage.”
Alesha Dixon will switch the lights on at around 7pm with the help of the Lord Mayor of Coventry, councillor Tony Skipper, JD and Rosin and Santa.
The lights switch-on marks the start of late night shopping within the city centre with stores staying open longer during the evening. Shops will then be open late every Wednesday in the run up to Christmas Day.
An early festive present is being given to drivers as car parks will be free for late night shopping every Wednesday when entering after 3pm, starting from November 22.
They will then be free between December 18 and December 22 when entering after 3pm in the run up to the big day.
Participating car parks are Barracks, Bishop Street, Cheylesmore, City Arcade, Cox Street, Gosford Street, Grosvenor Road, Grove Street, Lower Ford Street, Lower Precinct, Manor House Drive, New Union Street, Salt Lane, Spon Street, West Orchards and Whitefriars Street.
Councillor Abdul Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member responsible for Events, said: “I’m really looking forward to the Christmas Lights Switch-on.
“It will be such a great event and a fantastic opportunity for families to come into the city centre, and for Coventry to officially start the festive season together.
“The acts performing on the evening will I’m sure be excellent. They cater for all ages and there is something for everyone to enjoy. It’ll be a great and enjoyable evening and I’m particularly looking forward to seeing the Christmas lights switched on.”
