Renfrew lights up for Christmas

The heart of Renfrew will come alive this weekend for the Christmas Lights Switch-On with a host of free family activities topped by a sensational fireworks finale.

The event comes as Paisley bids to be named UK City of Culture 2021 and is itself part of the area’s Winter Events programme.

Saturday’s fun starts at Renfrew Town Hall at noon with Big Top children’s drop in craft workshops.

The sessions are free to attend and run until 4pm, with face painters and a balloon modeller.

Little ones will be delighted by performances by Ipdip Theatre – ‘Ssh, Elves are very shy’.

The free interactive show runs all afternoon from 12.30pm and is perfect for children aged eight and under. Spaces are limited and can be booked through Eventbrite.

Children desperate to share their Christmas lists with Santa can visit his grotto on High Street from 12pm, while his reindeer helpers will also be there to meet boys and girls.

Kirklandneuk Primary School Choir will add to the festive atmosphere while Renfrew Burgh Band will also entertain the crowds with a 30 minute performance from 3pm.

A funfair will add to the excitement from 12 noon to 6pm, situated in Charles Avenue car park.

Helping to build up to the big switch on will be Gus from Pulse FM, and Paisley’s Got Talent winner Hollie Robinson and the Rockus Community Choir are among the other performers on the live outside stage.

At 5pm the Christmas lights will be switched on by Provost Lorraine Cameron and will be followed by a dazzling fireworks display, which will light up the skies above the town.

Provost Cameron, who will be joined for the switch on by lucky competition winner Erin Murrayaged 9 from Arkleston Primary School, who designed a winning Christmas card, said: “The Renfrew Christmas Lights Switch-On is always great fun and a lovely way to mark the start of the festive season.

“I always enjoy meeting local people at these events, especially our younger residents. It looks set to be a magical day.”

Residents should be aware that there will be a series of temporary road closures and parking restrictions in place until after the event.

For more details and information go to: http://www.paisley2021.co.uk/events