BGT’s Jai to top lights show bill
Details of Christmas programme revealed
Stirling’s annual Christmas lights switch-on will have some added star power this year thanks to former ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ winner Jai McDowall.
The singer is currently recording a new album and will headline the festive event in Stirling city centre on Sunday, November 18.
Ayrshire-born Jai won the fifth season of ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, capturing the hearts of the nation with his powerhouse vocals and natural charm.
The switch-on programme will also include performances from Ariana Grande tribute act Simply Ariana, fronted by Gemma Lamont. Gemma is a professional singer, dancer and choreographer.
Big Noise Orchestra will be performing in the city centre and a second performance stage in Friars Street will showcase young bands and musicians.
The festive celebrations begin at 2pm and the city will also welcome the return of the Stirling Santa Parade, with Santa and his reindeer outside the Albert Halls at 2pm, ready to set off through the city centre before finishing back at the Albert Halls.
Capital Scotland will be keeping everybody entertained with festive tunes from the foot of King Street from 2.10pm onwards.
As well as competitions and giveaways with the Capital Scotland presenters, there will be live music performances throughout the afternoon until the Christmas lights switch-on at 5pm then Jai will keep the party going until 5.40pm.
Councillor Chris Kane said: “The Christmas lights switch-on really is a special event that brings some festive cheer to the city centre.
“It’s the catalyst for the countdown to Christmas for our businesses and also helps brighten up the dark nights which are coming in as winter approaches.
“This year’s event boasts another jam-packed line-up with local and national talent and also comes hot on the heels of the reopening of the Kerse Road bridge, improving access to the city just in time for both local residents and visitors from outside Stirling.
“I’m really looking forward to supporting the event on the day and watching as Stirling city centre gets its Christmas glow for another year.”
The Observer will carry more details of Stirling Winter Festival, including the the city’s Hogmanay celebrations, over the next few weeks.
It’s the catalyst for the countdown to Christmas