Mid and East Antrim set to shine with more festive family fun at Christmas lights switch-on events
- Love Ballymena
- 22 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Santa arriving in Ballymena last weekend
Mid and East Antrim is set to sparkle this weekend as the festive season continues in full swing, with Larne and Carrickfergus preparing to burst into life with music, markets, parades and magical Christmas cheer at their annual Christmas Lights Switch-On celebrations.
Both towns will host a wide range of family-friendly entertainment, live performances, festive characters and crafts – with the much-anticipated arrival of Santa adding extra seasonal excitement.
Residents across the Borough are being encouraged to wrap up warm, gather their loved ones, and enjoy a fun-filled weekend of festive celebrations.
Larne Christmas Lights Switch-On – Friday 21 November
Larne will be “glowing with festive excitement” as Broadway becomes the centre of Christmas celebration from 5pm to 8pm, with the lights officially switched on at 7.30pm.
Ahead of the main event, a Quiet Hour of outdoor sensory play will take place from 4pm to 5pm.
From 5pm, families can enjoy:
Face painting
Christmas characters
Live music
Street entertainment
One of the evening’s highlights is the Festive Parade at 7.10pm, led by Santa and the Mayor, featuring a vibrant Samba band, festive floats, pupils from Larne and Inver Primary School, Scouts and Christmas trains.
The festivities will reach their climax at 7.30pm when Santa and the Mayor switch on Larne’s Christmas lights, illuminating the town for the holiday season.
Carrickfergus Christmas Lights Switch-On – Saturday 22 November
Carrickfergus will shine brightly on Saturday, with Market Place hosting a packed day of Christmas activities from 1pm to 5.30pm, and the lights being switched on at 5pm.
The day begins with a Civic Carol Service at St Nicholas’ Church, followed by a Quiet Hour of outdoor sensory play from 2pm to 3pm.
From 3pm, festive cheer will fill the town, with:
Face painting
Christmas crafts
Live music
Christmas characters
Performances from Hawthorn Melody Hands, Uplift Performing Arts, Royal Tara Dance
Academy, and Studio 86
A NEW Festive Parade will take place at 4.45pm, led by Santa and the Deputy Mayor, featuring Santa in his vintage car, Ballyduff Silver Band, pupils from Woodlawn Primary School and a range of festive floats.
At 5pm, Santa and the Deputy Mayor will officially switch on the Christmas lights, followed by a spectacular fireworks finale at 5.20pm, lighting up the sky above the Promenade, weather permitting.
Carrickfergus Christmas Market Returns
Adding even more festive charm, the Carrickfergus Christmas Market returns in a marquee at High Street Car Park from 1pm to 5.30pm. Visitors can browse an array of stalls showcasing skilled local crafters – perfect for picking up unique, handcrafted Christmas gifts.
Further information and full event listings can be found at the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council website.