READING Business Improvement District has announced that the town is set to mark the start of the festive season with the annual Christmas Light switch-on this month.
The display is set to celebrate Reading’s rich culture and heritage, bringing local stories to life through an incredible array of over 800,000 LED lights on Saturday, November 15.
The light installations draw inspiration from the people, places and stories that make the town special, and each centrepiece tells a chapter of Reading’s past and present.
The include the famous Huntley & Palmers biscuits to Reading Abbey, Banksy’s Create Escape and the legendary Number 17 bus.
Visitors will also spot tributes to the town’s vibrant diversity and creativity, such as the ‘A World in One Place’ mural by graffiti artist Arron Lowe, the Central Club mural’s Pharaoh, and the Bayeux Tapestry replica at Reading Museum.
A full programme of live music performances will build up the festive cheer throughout the afternoon, including Reading Community Gospel Choir and up-and-coming local musicians, JULIETTE The Band.
It will also mark the opening of the regular Christmas market, which will see stalls offering German Bratwurst and Christmas carvery, toasted marshmallows, waffles, donuts, giant cookies, fudge, crepes & pic’n’mix sweets.
There will also also be stall offering cheese, roasted chestnuts glühwein and non-alcoholic mulled wine, christmas decorations, stockings, and gifts.
Alexa Volker, Reading BID Manager, said: “The Christmas Light Switch-On is one of the highlights of Reading’s year. This year’s display is truly special to us, celebrating everything that makes Reading unique, from our rich history to our vibrant, diverse community.
“Thanks to the support of our town centre businesses, we’re able to bring Reading together by creating something magical for residents and visitors alike.”
The official Christmas Lights Switch-On on takes place on Saturday, November 15, with the Broad Street Christmas Market running until January 2.
More information is available via: visit-reading.com
