Enjoy Christmas celebrations safely from home this year as Council’s plans go virtual

The Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Peter Johnston, is encouraging the public to enjoy the magic of Christmas differently this year, as Council put the finishing touches to a packed programme of virtual festive activities in the run-up to the season.

Due to public health concerns and Coronavirus restrictions across Northern Ireland, the traditional Christmas Switch-On events in our towns and villages will not be going ahead in their normal format, but the Mayor assures everyone that the beautiful borough of Mid and East Antrim will still be brightly illuminated and decorated.

As with every year, Council will continue to work with community groups across the borough to erect Christmas trees, however, we are encouraging members of the public not to gather around them for switch-on events.

Details of what’s planned will be shared on Council’s social channels and in the local press over coming weeks, but there is plenty for all ages to enjoy as they #Rediscover the #SpiritofMEA.

“Christmas will look different this year due to the need for us all to work together to protect the health of our community”, the Mayor continued.

“While we are unable to hold events where people might gather in large numbers, we will still all be able to share in the magic of Christmas, albeit virtually and from the comfort of our own homes.

“Council has been instrumental in helping our local businesses take every step possible to ensure we can all shop safely in our towns and villages, so we will still be able to pick up gifts for those we love at Christmas time.

“I am also very conscious that Christmas will be a difficult time for many in our community, particularly those who have lost loved ones or who find themselves under financial pressure because of the pandemic.

“But there are so many wonderful charities and community organisations who continue to go above and beyond to help families and individuals right across our borough all through the year. I encourage everyone to safely #Rediscover the #SpiritofMEA this Christmas at home.”