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Circus of the Moon
Christmas Light Switch On
Mark Saturday 23rd November in your diary, for Blackburn’s Christmas lights switch-on, which contains a full day of fun and events for all the family.
Circus of the Moon
Blackburn’s 2024 Christmas lights switch on will be called ‘Circus of The Moon’ and will feature light projections, circus performers, workshops, live music and markets and a captivating stage show – bringing a carnival atmosphere to the town centre.
The event, organised by Blackburn Business Improvement District (BID) and supported by Blackburn with Darwen Council, will be free to attend and visitors will also have free access to The Museum of the Moon during the event, offering an opportunity to view the moon installation in Blackburn Cathedral.
The event takes place in front of the town hall and will be hosted by Aleeza and Aisha, dynamic young presenters from One Voice Blackburn, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages. Throughout the day there will be roaming circus performers as well as circus skills workshops where visitors can try out a variety of circus skills..
Timings
Circus workshops running 12:00 – 16:00 in The Mall.
Roaming Stilt Walkers & Juggling Unicyclist throughout the day, 12:00 – 18:00, over three locations: Circus Of The Moon Stage Area, The Mall and The Cathedral.
Circus of the Moon Stage line up:
- Stage Host – One Voice
- Lancashire Dance Academy
- Blackburn Musical Theatre Company
- Zoe Taylor Dance
- Bernese Theatre School
- Katrina’s Dance Academy
- Made For Stage
- Blackburn King George’s Hall Panto Cast
- Pop Up Global
- Blackburn Festival of Light Street Band
What’s Going On
This years event is much more than a lights switch-on (as great as that part will be!).
The monthly vintage and art market will move into the Bureau for the day, open 11am – 4pm, where shoppers can enjoy unique shopping, good food and creative ambience as well as a chance to check out the Bureau’s new café where visitors can relax with a coffee or hot chocolate and freshly baked cakes.
In addition to this, local talent from theatre and performing arts schools, including Lancashire Dance Academy, Zoe Taylor Dance, Bernese Theatre School, Blackburn Musical Theatre Company, Katrina’s Dance & Arts Academy, and Made For Stage, will perform themed routines inspired by the Circus of the Moon.
To crown the evening, Blackburn’s Christmas lights will be turned on in a Light Launch Sequence featuring a special performance by Pop Up Global. The night will end with a breathtaking laser light show after the big switch-on of the town’s dazzling Christmas display.
Make A Proper Day (or Night) Of It
As you can see, it’s a packed day of events for everyone, but if you do spot any gaps in your day, then we thought we’d help fill them so you maximise your time in Blackburn.
You are in town and it is getting dangerously close to Christmas, so it might be a good idea to see if you can find some unique little gifts or find that item you’ve been curious about but wanted to check it out in person first – well there is no better time.
Blackburn is blessed with the ideal combination of big brand names and local independent shops, allowing to find everything you need and maybe something you didn’t expect. For example, just 2 minutes from the town hall you’ll find The Bat Cave, where you find something unusual for that special nerd at home.
If you are looking for an outfit for the man in your life, just on Town Hall Street you have Pelle Menswear and Emporium next to each other, giving you lots of choice.
If you find yourself with a little more time, then head 5 minutes up the street to The Mall, where you’ll find all the big brand names. And one final idea, as you’ve walked up near them, why not pop into one of the oldest and most popular shops in town, Ainsworth Jewellers. It’s perfect for finding that special little something for the important people in your life or maybe even treating yourself.
If you are looking for a snack or a drink to keep you going whilst the lights ceremony is happening, then you are right next to Caffee Impresso, perfect for a warming coffee or hot chocolate, a hot panini or one of the many waffles they have on offer, we recommend the Lotus Biscoff Waffle!
You night doesn’t have to end after the lights are switched on. For starters, you can head back to The Bureau for an unforgettable evening of jazz, soul and folk with singer/songwriters Jack Watkins, Jacob Reddy, John Witherspoon and guests from 7pm-10.3-pm. Tickets are available for this brilliant live music night from Blackburn Gigs.
If you fancy a couple of drinks, then you are perfectly located for two best bars in town, The Drummers Arms and Rock Box. Next door to each other, opposite where the light switch-on is happening, they both have an excellent selection of beers and spirits, plus you’ll find a lovely atmosphere with good music.
If you are looking for a bite to eat after all the fun, then a short walk up King William Street and you’ll find two of the best curry houses in town – Saffron Street and Kobeda Palace. Each has a diverse menu, super service and the chance to relax, eat good food and discuss the day.
Finally, to round off your day, head over to the Cathedral and catch the amazing Moon art installation, as it’s open all night and completely free in the evening just for this one day.
Getting Here
Blackburn is supported by a great network of road and public transport options for getting into town.
By Car – the biggest car park near the venue is the The Mall’s own car park, that holds up to 1,300 cars but within 10 minutes of the event you’ll find many other public car parks, click through to have a look at the options available – you’ll even see we multiple charge points if you need a little boost before heading home.
By Bus – Most regional bus services stop at Blackburn bus interchange. Upon arriving, simply walk around the Mall on route to the Town Hall, its just a couple of minutes away.
By Train – Blackburn is well served by the rail network and once you leave the station, head into town, passing the Cathedral and a few minutes after the The Mall, you’ll find the Town Hall
