Reading Christmas Lights switch on

6th December 2023

As Reading town centre bustled on November 18th, an undeniable sense of anticipation filled the wintry air. The allure of 400,000 twinkling lights and the lively community ambiance drew everyone closer, it was the Christmas light switch on.

Imagine walking through lively streets glowing with twinkling lights and bustling with life. The food stalls and carts selling festive crafts buzzed with energy! The scent of roasted chestnuts filled the air. People kicked off their Christmas shopping at the Oracle, on Broad Street and across Reading town centre. So much to eat, see and do! Personalized stockings were a unique Christmas shopping gem, available at the Christmas lights market.

Beyond the dazzling lights, the streets offered a delightful array of experiences. There were welcoming spots to sit and savour the moment, relishing performances while enjoying an array of food and treats. From aromatic hot-roasted chestnuts to hot doughnuts, mince pies, hot roast pork with stuffing - a pure carvery menu! The air was filled with the sweet aroma of candy and cider, tempting passers-by to indulge in these seasonal delights.

The stage was set for a very promising night. A rising star in synth-pop, Natalie Gray, enchanted the crowd with her brilliant songs, especially her recent hit "Home is Where You Are." It really was a fantastic performance and really got the crowd going.

She was followed by RASPO, Reading’s renowned steel band. You could honesty feel the echo of their steel drums and amazing to see how they come up with festive tunes. It really was a unique experience, urging us to dance, hum away and get into the rhythm of the drums.. The crowd were all tuned in, even from far away, and the crowd really went far back.

Then there was a delightful surprise from the BID’s Alexa, adding a whimsical touch to the evening. Her playful tease about a pantomime character left us all intrigued and chuckling, adding to the excitement.

The climax arrived—the arrival of Reading's beloved Pantomime Dame. With her theatrical charm, she graced the stage, heralding the eagerly awaited moment—the illumination of the town's lights. It was a breath-taking sight; the town gleamed with a radiant symphony of lights, perfectly mirrored by those of John Lewis. As the countdown began—5, 4, 3, 2—and Bang! The atmosphere buzzed with excitement; the crowd joined in the countdown, kids shouting with anticipation. All eyes were fixed on that magical moment when Christmas truly began. People were really crowding around the Pantomime Dame, trying to get as many pictures as possible, eagerly watching the act!

The streets were being filled with snow! Especially around M&S, the crowd became tighter as everyone wanted to participate and feel the snow on their faces, and why not, you wouldn’t want to miss out on that experience, there was some truly captivating images of this!

The crowds moved on to explore Broad Street Mall and The Oracle, where people embraced Black Friday discounts and Christmas offers and then explored what Reading’s many restaurants have to offer after a long afternoon on their feet. What a way to start the Christmas festive season. Thank you Reading!