Coventry Christmas lights switch-on plans revealed

[dutchman]

This year there will be a new star attraction



The annual Christmas light switch-on event is back this year with a new feature.

A display of artist-designed lighting and a unique family animation will be shown bringing the festive spirit to the city.

The night will consist of family-focused music and dance to Broadgate, along with a 'glow light' stage show and projections across the buildings to end the evening.

A large real Christmas tree will also feature as part of the #YuleLovCov Christmas programme.

This free live event starts at 5pm on Wednesday November 20 with a stage show presented by JD and Producer Paul from Free Radio.

To encourage people to join in the festivities on the night, mark the start of late-night shopping and encourage footfall in the lead up to the important Christmas shopping period, the Council is offering free car parking for anyone that enters after 3pm in its city centre car parks.

This free after 3pm offer will continue for all late-night Wednesday shopping days making it more affordable for people to visit the city.

Andy Williams, Director of Business Investment and Culture at the Council said: “Our ambition this year is to bring something unique and different to Coventry and with our event partners in the UK City of Culture 2021 and Coventry BID teams, we think it’ll certainly grab people's attention!

"We are delighted to be able to present unique artistic commissions as part of the event, to bring a fresh look to the start of Christmas in Coventry.

“I am looking forward to seeing as many people as possible come together to enjoy what will be a fun event for all the family, followed by an opportunity for some seasonal shopping.”

Trish Willetts, Coventry BID Manager and Director said: “We are very excited to show the residents of Coventry a brand-new offer for 2019. This event is a tradition for the city and the BID businesses are delighted to be playing a part in bringing something magical to celebrate the start of the Christmas Campaign, especially for the young people that come to the event.

“More wonderful family fun is on the way so keep an eye on the City Centre Facebook page for all the exciting #YuleLoveCov details.”

[dutchman]

Coventry Christmas lights switch on 2019: Massive crowds gather in Broadgate



Thousands of people gathered in Coventry City Centre tonight for the annual Christmas lights switch-on.

Held in Broadgate, the square was packed with people wrapped up against the cold weather who were keen to watch the local Coventry performers as well as JD and Paul from Free Radio.

This year was unlike others and came with an unusual twist - after the countdown, the buildings surrounding our Godiva statue were awash with projections of elves making toys and wrapping presents in a dazzling display.

Fitting in with the windows and the shapes of the walls, the projection was very cleverly created to look like a toy factory, and then houses, telling a story of Santa's workshop.

Alongside the projections, there were hundreds of lanterns hung on the trees and above people's heads, each containing a story of a local Coventry person.

After the light display, Santa hit the decks playing festive songs for the crowds, with fun remixes that everyone seemed to enjoy.

It seemed the night was a success, marking the opening of the city's Christmas market, late night shopping and overall festive cheer.

Simon, from Brighton, who attended the event said: "The lights were amazing, just such a spectacle, really good for Coventry. The lights on the wall were amazing.

"I went to a switch on elsewhere this year and this one is much better I really enjoyed it."

Nadie, 12, from Coventry, said: "I think it was amazing. It was my first time actually coming and seeing it - I think the projections were really nice.

"The only downside was that because of the windows on the buildings, sometimes it was hard to see but otherwise I think it was very good.

"I also liked seeing all the people do their singing and dancing, I think that entertained everybody."

[rebbonk]

Mutton's patio put to use!