Christmas switch-on and market events are called off
ROCHDALE’S big Christmas lights switchon and festive market at the town hall will not take place this year due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The popular family event normally staged in late November in Rochdale, is the latest big event to be axed, along with switch-on events in Middleton, Heywood and Littleborough.
Coun Janet Emsley, cabinet member for a safer and inclusive community at Rochdale council, said social distancing rules meant the event can’t take place safely. “It won’t be a surprise we’ve had to cancel this event in light of the current situation,” she said.
“We would love to keep things as they are but the reality is we are having to make significant changes to ensure we aren’t encouraging people to break the rules. Our festive market at the town hall and switch-on attracts big crowds so what we don’t want to do is encourage large numbers of people to gather in town in the current circumstances. “But what I can promise you is Rochdale will look as Christmassy as ever and there will be more for all the family to enjoy as part of your visit.
“With the new Rochdale Riverside retail and leisure development open and new shops and restaurants, the borough is going to be an even more magical place to be under the Christmas lights.”
Details will be confirmed soon about an online virtual celebration as the lights and displays go on to mark the start of the festive season in Rochdale, featuring
Father Christmas, the Mayor Coun Billy Sheerin and special guests.
The council will also be asking residents to share their own Christmas lights switch-on videos on social media, whether you’re lighting your tree at home, having fairy lights or lanterns.
Coun Emsley added: “We will still be doing all we can to bring some much-needed festive cheer, and encouraging everyone to shop locally and support our wonderful businesses during these very difficult times.”