City Centre Christmas Lights Switch On moves indoors

Due to forecasted strong winds, Portsmouth City Council has made the decision to move Saturday's city centre Christmas Lights Switch On Party indoors to Cascades Shopping Centre In Commercial Road. The event will still take place on Saturday 23 November 4-6pm, as originally planned.

This change is being made to ensure the safety of all attendees and participants. While the weather may not be ideal for an outdoor event, the festive show will go on inside Cascades outside the former Dorothy Perkins shop.

Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of the Council, said:

"Our priority is always the safety of our residents and visitors. Moving the event indoors allows us to continue with the festivities while protecting everyone from the predicted adverse weather conditions.

To change the venue of an event of this nature at short nature requires a huge team effort and we are grateful to the Cascades team for their support, because without this we would be facing cancellation.

We encourage all to come along and support our local businesses and enjoy the Christmas cheer in our city centre ."

The city centre Christmas Lights Switch On Party is the final event in a series of festive celebrations across the city. The countdown to Christmas begins with the Southsea Christmas Lights Switch On Party tonight, Thursday 21 November followed by Cosham Carols tomorrow, Friday 22 November. These events are part of a series of Christmas events to support local high streets.

Sponsored by HSDC, the Christmas Lights Switch On Parties are hosted by Mark Collins (Greatest Hits Radio) and features stars from panto including Lorraine Stanley (Eastenders) and George Sampson (Britain's Got Talent), Portsmouth FC heroes, performances by community groups, walk about entertainers and a special appearance by Father Christmas .

For the latest on Christmas events in Portsmouth visit https://rediscoverportsmouth.co.uk/events/christmas-in-portsmouth/