A MUCH-loved festive event is due to return to Thornbury this year with a change. 

Organisers behind the town’s Christmas lights switch-on have revealed 2024’s event will take place for the first time ever on a Saturday. 

The popular event will take place on Saturday, November 16 promising a day full of fun, entertainment, and holiday spirit for the entire community.

There will be a community market, funfair rides and live entertainment taking place between 2pm to 7pm.

Lights will officially be switched on at 6pm by the Pump.

In previous years, the event has usually taken place on Tuesdays at a slightly later start time of 7pm.  

Thornbury Christmas Lights Association, which organises the display and the switch-on, has also announced this year’s event has been supported by Love Thornbury.

"We're thrilled to be bringing the community together for this special event," said Sally Higgins, chairperson for TCLA. 

"This year’s switch-on is particularly exciting as we have decided to change things up and run the event on a Saturday, with an earlier switch-on time of 6pm. 

“We hope this will make it more accessible for families and those who work during the week. 

“We’re grateful to Love Thornbury for their support in helping to organise the market and making this day even more memorable."

The volunteer festive group was officially formed 33 years ago in 1991. 

Historically, Christmas lights displays in the town had been provided since the 1960s by the then Thornbury Chamber of Trade.

When that body decided that it was no longer able to organise the annual High Street display, a group of volunteers came together to continue the popular Thornbury tradition.

Last year’s event was the event's first appearance in four years, having not taken place in the town since 2019.

Money was raised for Young Lives vs Cancer, a charity that supports children undergoing cancer treatment and their families.

The lights were turned on by Thornbury mayor James Murray, Ollie and his family, a local boy who has been supported by the charity. 
 

Volunteers from Thornbury Christmas Lights Association  (Image: Thornbury Christmas Lights Association)

The lights being switched on last year (Image: Thornbury Christmas Lights Association)

(Image: Thornbury Christmas Lights Association)