Ballymena Town Centre is getting ready to sparkle as one of the most anticipated events of the year returns on Saturday 15 November, the Ballymena Christmas Light Switch-On.
This year’s celebrations promise to be bigger and brighter than ever, led by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, with Downtown Radio and Downtown Christmas once again bringing the festive fun to the town in partnership with Ballymena Town Centre via Ballymena BID.
Over the past few years, Downtown has become an important and familiar part of Ballymena’s Christmas festivities, broadcasting live from the town in 2023 and taking over the Harmony Hub last year to entertain visitors. Thanks to the continued and growing partnership between Ballymena BID and Downtown, this year’s Switch-On promises even more festive excitement, giveaways, and community celebration.
From 2pm, local legend DJ Mark Ritchie will get the party started, spinning the biggest Christmas hits to set the scene. Visitors can enjoy Christmassy walkabout characters, face painting, and live local entertainment, including the Ballymena Strummers performing for the first time on the Harmony Hub concert stage.
Then from 4pm, Downtown Breakfast’s Gary Myles and the Downtown Crew will take over the main stage with live competitions, giveaways, and festive fun, all building up to the big switch-on moment.
At 6pm, the much-loved Santa Parade will leave Wellington Street, featuring the Cullybackey Pipe Band, festive floats, Christmas trains, children from Ballymena Primary School and Dunclug Primary School, and of course Santa’s Clydesdale horses. The magical moment everyone’s waiting for; the Ballymena Christmas Lights Switch-On will take place at 6.30pm.
Aileen McGarry (Primark / Ballymena BID Secretary) said: “This continued partnership between Ballymena BID and Downtown Christmas adds something really special to the Council’s event. We’re delighted to play our part in bringing festive entertainment and energy to Ballymena Town Centre. It’s a celebration of local people, local businesses, and the Christmas spirit that makes Ballymena shine.”
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Jackson Minford, said: “The Christmas Lights Switch-On is always one of the most anticipated events of the year and a highlight for families and individuals alike. It’s a time when we all come together in the true spirit of Christmas; celebrating community, supporting one another and enjoying everything the town has to offer. I look forward to seeing you all on 15th November!”
Gary Myles from Downtown Radio added: “We’re thrilled to be back in Ballymena for the Christmas Light Switch-On. There’ll be festive characters, giveaways, and plenty of live entertainment, and we can’t wait to help light up the town and kick off the Christmas season!”
🎄 Join us on Saturday 15 November for a full day of festive fun!
Come early, enjoy the entertainment, grab a bite to eat, explore the shops, and soak up the atmosphere as Ballymena Town Centre comes alive with Christmas magic. Eat, shop, be entertained, and get into the festive spirit in Ballymena Town Centre.
This event is delivered by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, with additional entertainment and activity supported by Ballymena Town Centre via Ballymena BID through its continued partnership with Downtown Radio and Downtown Christmas.
