Penrith town centre will be filled with music, laughter and lights this weekend as the Christmas lights are switched on.
Plans include street performers, live music, Santa, crafts, a tractor parade and much more at Penrith Sparkle on Saturday.
From 10am, a host of gift stalls will fill Little Dockray, later joined by Santa and his elves. From 2pm, Matrix Circus will teach those willing some hula skills, while at 2.30pm the Ullswater Community College Choir will fill Market Square with vocal splendour.
Pupils of Bishop Yards School of Dance will entertain the crowds at 4pm, while local band Soul Survivors perform on stage.
From 5pm, a parade of Christmas-themed tractors are set to travel through town, keen to get votes to help win the top prize. Money raised will go to help Penrith Mountain Rescue Team.
Celebrity guest Helen Skelton will be joining Santa and pressing the all- important plunger.
Helen, who is from Kirkby Thore, said: “Stepping up to turn on the Christmas lights in Penrith this year is a wonderful honour. Being a local lass, it’s a brilliant event to be part of and my family and I can’t wait to enjoy the whole thing.”
Dan Harding, of Penrith BID, said: “This community event is a great start to the festive season in Penrith and should be a great boost for the businesses here too.
“We invite all to take advantage of the opportunity and showcase their products and services to those coming specially for the celebration. Make Penrith a place to come back to and cherish.”
