Christmas lights switch on events across South Lanarkshire

Published: Wednesday 6 November 2024

Crowds gather beside market stalls in Lanark Main Street for the switching on of he town's 2019 Christmas lights.

The countdown to Christmas is underway with lights scheduled to be switched on at events across South Lanarkshire.

The first council-run event takes place in Lanark on Saturday 16 November, with the lights switched on at 5pm.

The following day – Sunday 17 November – it’s the turn of East Kilbride Village, with the switch on also taking place at 5pm.

The following weekend it’s Rutherglen’s turn, with the lights switched on at 4.30pm on Saturday 23 November.

On the same day – Saturday 23 November, The Christmas Light Switch-On will illuminate Quarry Street in Hamilton, from 10am to 5:30pm, featuring a market, a visit from Santa, and a spectacular Christmas Parade departing from Castle Street around 2:30pm. This event is organised by Hamilton Our Town Business Improvement District. Full details of their festive events can be found on their website.

The following day – Sunday 24 November – it’s the turn of Cambuslang, with the lights turned on at 4.30pm.

Finally, Carluke’s Christmas lights will be turned on at 5pm on Saturday 30 November.

Mac*Busted – the UK's Official Number 1 Tribute to Mcfly and Busted – will be performing at Lanark, East Kilbride, Cambuslang and Rutherglen.

At the Carluke event The MacDonald Bros, who were fourth in the X Factor in 2006, will be performing.  

At each of the council-run events, there will be Soundsational Choir, street entertainers and kids characters for all the family to enjoy.  Des Clarke from Heart FM will be hosting all the events except from the East Kilbride event which will be hosted by Ali Wright from Clyde 1. 

Provost Margaret Cooper or Depute Provost Bert Thomson will be joined on stage by specially invited guests for the switching on of the lights.

Provost Cooper said: “I hope as many people as possible come along to enjoy a bit of Christmas cheer.

“The Christmas lights always help people get in the mood for festive fun and I am sure everyone will have a great time at the switch-on events.”