Details revealed for Exeter Christmas lights switch on

Princesshay will reveal its brand new Christmas lights display at the Christmas lights switch on event on Thursday 19th November 2015 from 4pm – 8pm.

Princesshay will host Exeter city centre’s Christmas lights switch on for the fifth consecutive year.

Michael Caines MBE and Tony Rowe OBE who have recently been awarded the freedom of city will switch on the city centre’s Christmas lights at 6.30pm, together with the city’s rising stars Sound of the Sirens who will also be performing in the lead up to the big switch on event.

Shoppers can expect a different festive feel from previous years with a more traditional lighting scheme and new areas and walkways illuminated for the first time. As well as thousands of twinkly LED lights including stunning light canopies and hanging chandeliers, light projection will also form part of the decoration together with beautiful Christmas tree centre pieces, a walk through lit up bauble structure and two illuminated polar bears.

Visitors will be able to have photographs taken inside a new, giant snowglobe located at the lower end of Bedford Street. 10% of all proceeds from this will be donated to Princesshay’s charity of the year Age UK Exeter.

Heart Radio’s breakfast presenters Matt and Caroline will kick start the night’s activities on stage with a festive programme of entertainment from local artists and performers.

The line-up includes the Exeter University Jazz Orchestra, pantomime performances from Wonder Productions and Pinhoe Pantomime cast and the gorgeous sounds of the Exeter Universities A-Capella groups. The Heart Angels will be on the ground greeting visitors and shoppers and handing out free Christmas treats and giveaways including Reindeer antlers and xylo bands.

Michael Caines said: “It’s a real honour to have been awarded the freedom of the city earlier in the year and to be asked to switch on the city’s Christmas lights. Exeter is really important to me and it’s great to be part of such an amazing city. I’m looking forward to seeing you all on the 19th November for an evening of entertainment and magical festivities.”

The Christmas lights switch on event marks the start of late night shopping in the city with shops open until 9pm every Thursday until Christmas. Princesshay also has a fantastic choice of brands including new comers Jamie’s Italian MAC, Smiggle and a fatter Fat Face.

The Princesshay Gift Card offers a stress free gift option that can be redeemed in any of Princesshay’s shops and restaurants and will be available to buy from Princesshay’s brand new Customer Service Point which will open in Bampflyde Lane between Superdry and Chandos Deli during the run up to Christmas.

Wayne Pearce, Princesshay Centre Director said: “Christmas is one of our favourite times of year here in Princesshay and this year we’re doubly excited about our brand new Christmas lights and new retailers openings. Our mix of over 70 shops and restaurants and a packed timetable of events and festive activities are sure to keep shoppers and visitors entertained over the festive period.”

Princesshay’s Charity Christmas Tree Festival will begin on Friday 20th November to bring some festive cheer to Princesshay’s Roman Walk.

Thirty-five Christmas trees will be decorated by 35 different local charities to help raise awareness and money over the festive period. Now in its third year, the Charity Christmas tree Festival lights will be switched on by the Lord Mayor of Exeter at 5.30pm.