Christmas Switch on returns to Keel Square

Su, who plays the Wicked Queen in Snow White, this year's panto at the Sunderland Empire, is bringing festive sparkle to the event alongside fellow panto stars Miss Rory as Nurse Rorina and Tom Whalley as Muddles the Jester.

The Switch On traditionally marks the start of the city centre's festive season and this year visitors can look forward to a dazzling display of all new lighting throughout the city centre reflecting the city's history and heritage.

Beginning at 6pm, the evening's entertainment also includes a festive school choir, a Salvation Army brass band  and carol singers,  as well as a sparkling finale from the Spark! Drummers.

Santa - the main man himself, will also be putting in an appearance - with a Christmas message to all the young people in the audience.

The annual Christmas Lights Switch On signals the start of the Christmas in Sunderland city centre programme, with an exciting array of festive fun including a fun-fair, rides and food stalls just a stone's throw away from Keel Square in Crowtree Road.

The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Harry Trueman, said: "I'm delighted to see the return of our annual Christmas Lights Switch On after we weren't able to go ahead last year due to the pandemic.

"It's a wonderful feel-good, family event guaranteed to get everyone in the mood for the festive season that allows the city to come together and officially start the countdown to Christmas.

"We would encourage visitors to plan ahead so they can make the most of everything that Christmas in Sunderland has to offer, whether that's a spot of Christmas shopping, meeting up with friends for night out or a day out with the kids. There really is something for everyone."

In view of the continuing high numbers of Covid infections in the city, members of the public planning to attend the Christmas Switch On are advised to take precautions such as wearing a face covering, adhering to social distancing where possible and taking a lateral flow test before attending, to keep themselves and others safe.

For further information on the Christmas Lights Switch On visit: https://www.mysunderland.co.uk/christmaslights

For information on the Sunderland Empire panto visit: www.atgtickets.com/sunderland