1 mile of Christmas lights to illuminate Cookstown

by Gráinne Connolly

In less than two weeks Christmas will officially be underway in Cookstown as a mile of Christmas lights will be switched on to illuminate the town centre. 

On Friday the 24th of November, the 'switch-on' event will see plenty of light displays and activities for local people. 

Starting at 5.20pm on William Street, there will be street stalls, free face painting and a host of Christmas and Cartoon Characters providing on-street entertainment for children. 

There will also be street performances from a fire juggler, a fire hula-hooper, stilt walkers and walkabouts. That will be accompanied by ice sculptures at the corner of The Burn Road. 

Music will be played during the evening from local artists 'The Banjacks' from 5.30pm, followed by the cast of the Stewartstown Amateur Dramatic Society; showcasing segments of their upcoming pantomime 'Pinnochio'. 

There will also be pieces played by the award winning Tullylagan Pipe band who were established in 1923. 

Deputy Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Mark Glasgow says he's looking forward to this year's mile long of Christmas lights:

"There is no better way to kick off Mid Ulster's festive celebrations by switching on Cookstown's world famous lights.

"It's a highlight of the year and people far and wide have admired the sight, encouraging local, national and international visitors to the town. 

"It's a perfect way to illuminate all that Cookstown Town Centre has to offer." 

Santa will be appearing on stage in the town at 6.30pm and will "press the magic red button" and the town will light up its Christmas display. 

(The council would also like to remind motorists that road diversions will be in place from 4.30pm in Cookstown Town Centre and William Street will be closed to through traffic on Friday 24th November from 5pm, re-opening at 8pm)