The much-anticipated Christmas Lights Switch-On is being hosted by Rotherham Radio and BBC Radio Sheffield this year.
Rotherham town centre will be getting into the festive spirit on Saturday 15 November, offering free family fun from 3pm to 6pm.
This annual event offers an exciting line up of entertainment and activities to welcome the festive season to the borough, bringing cheer and sparkle with a programme of live music, circus performances, street theatre, gift market, creative workshops and more!
The live main stage in All Saints’ Square will offer performances from talented young Rotherham based musicians, choirs and performance groups.
Performance schedule for All Saints’ Square:
3pm to 3.20pm – The Banned
3.30pm to 3.50pm – Rotherham Youth Choir
3.50pm to 4pm – Rotherham Civic Theatre Pantomime Cast
4.05pm to 4.25pm – Cole Foxton
4.30pm to 4.40pm – Sanjeet Choir
4.45pm to 5pm – Harthill Village Choir
5.05pm to 5.50pm – Mr Wilsons Second Liners
6pm – Lights Switch On
6.05pm – Churches Together
Adding to the excitement, Yorkshire Circus will bring interactive circus activities, walkabout performers and fire displays to Minster Gardens. Take part in 30 minute LED workshops for all ages at 3pm, 4.15pm and 5pm, and don’t miss their spectacular fire show at 3.5pm and 5.45pm.
Inside Rotherham Minster, families can get hands-on with festive crafts, including bauble making, lantern creating and willow weaving, while just outside, Minster Yard will host a silent disco under the trees as part of the Children’s Capital of Culture programme.
Seasonal Gift Market will also be lined up on Effingham Street, offering handmade goods and festive treats, while many town centre businesses and the indoor market will stay open late to welcome shoppers and visitors. Hop on-board the Big Yellow Bus in Market Square to make candy cane lanterns and read festive stories with Rotherham Libraries, meet Father Christmas and interact with the virtual dancing reindeer.
The Mayor. Cllr Rukhsana Ismail, Mayor of Rotherham, who has the honour of officially switching on the light, said: "The Christmas Lights Switch-on is a much-loved tradition that brings people together right in the centre of Rotherham.
“It’s a chance to celebrate our community, enjoy some festive cheer, and see the creativity of local people. We’re proud to offer this free event that highlights local talent and supports our town centre."
Arc Cinema is hosting a festive double-bill of Magic Light Picture's 'The Gruffalo's Child' and 'Stick Man' on the day at at 2pm. This special, seasonal screening for families with young children will also feature a new short animation about a magic flying car made by over 300 children in Rotherham schools, as part of Children's Capital of Culture.
There is close access to the event via public transport, Rotherham Train Station and Bus Interchange, which are located within the Town Centre. There is also parking available at Forge Island, Drummond Street and various other locations throughout the town.
Images: RMBC

Socials