FOR the first time since 2019, becasue of the Covid-19 pandemic, there will be an official Christmas lights switch on in penarth.

Organised by Penarth Town Council the ceremonial switch-on will take place on Sunday, 20 November 20th 2022 and will be hosted by TV personality and broadcaster Laura-Jane Jones.

A packed stage of entertainment is planned, featuring Christmas favourites from James Williams, the fabulous Gershwin Quartet and dance vibes from Orchestral Beats. Local heroes PODS will be previewing their pantomime, with the fun kicked off by Rock Choir.

In the town centre, there will be plenty of free activities for the family, with entertainment from Hijinx Theatre's Grumpy Unicorns, festive crafts with Eggseeds and wonders from Pedal Emporium. Fairground rides and games complete the Christmas carnival.

Town Mayor, Laura Rochefort said "I'm so pleased that this important event in the town's calendar can return after the isolation of the last couple years. I'm delighted we can bring this free event to the town centre again for families to enjoy. I look forward to the town's fabulous new lights display and to begin the festive celebrations."

The council says there will be a number of parking restrictions in the immediate area of the event site and traffic diversions will be in place.

Other events coming up organised by the Town Council include:

• 10 November, 5 pm, Nature Tales Workshop – The Queen of the Birds (Ages 4-8) in Penarth
• 17 November, 4 pm, Nature Tales Workshop - Wangari's Trees (Ages 4-8) in Penarth
• 24 November, 5 pm, Nature Tales Workshop - The Fox and The Star (Ages 4-8) in Penarth