Hexham’s Christmas lights switch-on event will have something for
everyone – with some new lights this year, live music, a balloon entertainer,
hot chocolate, candlelit service and Festival of Flame in the Abbey.
Everything starts at 4.15pm in the Abbey Park with the Hexham
Middle School Orchestra playing Christmas carols at the Bandstand.
At 4.30pm, Santa will arrive! While he listens to children’s present
requests, his helpers will distribute sweets kindly donated by
Listers Biscuit Box, Hexham.
The Christmas lights (apart from the tree) will be switched on at 5.00pm.
Santa will then go to the 40ft Christmas tree at the Market Place and switch
its lights on at approximately 5.10pm.
After the lights are switched on, from 5.15pm, the Abbey boy choristers will sing Christmas carols around the piano in the Abbey and
free hot chocolate will be available.
At 6.00pm there will be a Compline Service of Light with handheld candles and the Abbey Choir.
Then begins the Festival of Flame – an Abbey illuminated by candlelight, live music, an atmospheric fire garden, toasted marshmallows, hot food and a dazzling ancient pear tree light installation on the cloister lawn.
Organised by Hexham Town Council with the help of Hexham Abbey and The Sele First School PTA and sponsors: Egger UK Ltd, Robert Scott of SGS Timber Haulage Ltd, Woodhorn Trust and Listers Biscuit Box.