Let there be light! Xmas tradition is set to return
With just 62 days until Christmas, let’s start getting festive
After missing out last year a much-loved Christmas tradition is making its return. Maidstone was left disappointed during the last festive season after no public body organised a lights switch-on. Maidstone council used to host an event in Jubilee Square, but stopped in 2013.
Last year Fremlin Walk swapped its light illumination ceremony for several weeks of activities and so the town went without.
But the Grinch has not stolen Christmas this time around as the family-friendly fun makes a comeback. Across the county areas are getting ready for the annual event and Maidstone, Weald and Malling are no exceptions. On Thursday, November 21, the One Maidstone light switch on in Jubilee Square will be taking place.
Starting at 6.30pm, it will be supported and broadcast live by kmfm.
Hollyoaks actor Jake Quickenden
will be pressing the button to light up the town. The singer and actor hit our screens as a contestant on ITV’s X Factor, before winning the hearts of the nation as runner-up in I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here, and winning Dancing on Ice in 2018.
The free switch on event will include entertainment, performances from Powerhouse Gospel Choir and the Military Wives Choir, with carols from Molehill Primary Academy pupils, alongside a song from Jake himself. Jake stars in this year’s production of Beauty and the Beast at the Hazlitt Theatre which runs from Saturday, November 30 to Tuesday, December 31. Other members of the panto cast will also be attending. The previous Thursday - November 14 - is the Tunbridge Wells light switch on.
Local shops will be taking part in the Rotary Club Charity Christmas shop window competition and the town will be lit in time for the ice rink to open the next day until Sunday, January 5.
Up next is the Tonbridge event which will be held on Sunday, November 24.
The High Street will be closed between 10:30am and 8.30pm to prepare for the festivities, which start at 1.50pm.
The lights will be switched on by Jill Anderson, Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, at 5.45pm. The Rotary Club has organised a packed day, featuring Shaws Fun Fair in Sainsbury’s car park on Angel Lane, more than 50 stalls selling hot food, drinks and Christmas gifts. Fireworks are also planned at Tonbridge