The countdown to Christmas in Sunderland officially begins on Thursday, November 14th, when the City Centre Christmas Lights Switch On takes place at Burdon Road from 6pm.
This year’s Switch On will include live music from the 2013 City Sings Winning Choirs and sizzlin’ hot 1950’s combo The Revolutionaires!
Following the entertainment, the Right Worshipful the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Robert Heron will switch on the City’s lights with special guest Gus Poyet, Sunderland AFC’s Head Coach.
A special guest from The Sunderland Empire Theatre’s Christmas Pantomime production of Cinderella, will also be in attendance. The Switch On will be followed by the traditional firework display which will light up the skies and signal the start of the Christmas celebrations.
Gus Poyet, SAFC Head Coach, said: “As someone who is new to the City it is a tremendous honour to be asked to participate in Sunderland’s Christmas Light Switch On. I have already been made to feel very welcome by everyone I have met and I’m sure it will be great night.”
Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Wellness and Culture, Councillor John Kelly added: “The Christmas Lights Switch On is always a fantastic family occasion symbolising the start of the festive season.
“We’re really looking forward to the celebrations and welcoming our guests who will be switching on the lights.”
The fun won’t stop after the Switch On with the audience invited to enjoy the start of late night shopping in the city, the opening of Santa’s Christmas Village in Market Square and Sunderland Live’s discount dining scheme, Restaurant Thursdays.
Chris Alexander, Chief Operating Officer of Sunderland Live said: “We have some fantastic entertainment and guests lined up for the annual Switch On event and everyone is really looking forward to the evening.
“Christmas in Sunderland 2013 is set to be one of the best yet.”
The annual switch on of the city’s Christmas Lights is not to be missed. For full details of the Christmas programme visit www.sunderlandlive.co.uk or pick up a brochure from the City Library and Arts Centre or city centre traders.
