Chart-toppers to launch Wigan Borough's festive season

Chart-toppers to launch Wigan Borough's festive season

A pair of chart-topping pop acts will take centre stage at Wigan Borough’s family-friendly Christmas lights switch-on events.

Iconic pop band East 17 will headline Wigan's Frost Festival on Sunday 23rd November.  80s sensation Sonia will headline Light Up Leigh on Saturday 15th November.

Light parades, local artisan markets and a packed schedule of live music and entertainment will also feature.

These free events will kick-off the festive season across the borough with Wigan Council’s free festive parking offer also coming into play.

From Monday 17 November, parking at local authority owned car parks will be free after 3pm though until the new year. This is in addition to free weekend parking offer that is in place all year round.

Leader of Wigan Council, Councillor David Molyneux MBE, said:

“We’re proud to be offering these two fantastic events to kick-off the season and get everyone in the festive spirit.

“From the legendary pop acts to the fun fairs, parades and entertainment, there’s something for all the family.

“Please also take advantage of our free parking offer, we know it makes a difference, and we can all do our bit to support local traders at this important time of year.”

For more information, please visit our Car Parking webpage.

Light Up Leigh is up first, hosted at Spinning Gate shopping centre car park on Saturday 15th November. 

It will feature the ever-popular light up parade, artisan markets, fun fair and a plentiful supply of food and drink options, open from 11.30am.

The parade will start at 4.30pm from Leigh Miners Welfare Institute on Kirby Road (off Twist Lane), making its way to Spinning Gate shopping centre car park.

Families will also be able to enjoy festive themed activities at Archives: Wigan and Leigh and the Turnpike Gallery throughout the day.

Frost Festival in Wigan follows the next week, Sunday, 23 November, with a Santa parade, artisan markets and fun fair.

Hosted on Market Place, the festivities will take place between 11.30am and 6.30pm, with the main light switch-on taking place at approximately 5pm.

The event is sponsored by Santa’s Grotto at the Grand Arcade, who will open on the day of the event. To book Santa's Grotto, please visit Santa's Grotto on TicketSource (external link).

For all information visit our Visit Wigan website.