Killie players to push the button for Killie’s Christmas

Always one of the most popular events in the town centre, this year’s host is top Ayrshire DJ Colin McArdle, who’ll be compering an impressive line-up on the main stage in King street including The Voice 2017 runner up Craig Ward, X Factor finalist, Emily Middlemas and Little Mix Magic, while Bank Street’s community stage and Christmas Market will be a focus for local schools, theatre and dance groups

The fun afternoon, which kicks off at 2.00pm captures the true spirit of the festive season, with entertainment to suit all ages and tastes and a great atmosphere in which to start the Christmas Shopping and spread some seasonal cheer. With winter aerobics, Ayrshire Opera Experience and Highway, singing classic Christmas songs, and the New Laigh Kirk Nativity in the churchyard, there will be plenty to see and hear all afternoon.

At 5.00pm Christmas in Killie really kicks off, with players from Kilmarnock FC pressing the big red button to light up the town.

Councillor Jim Roberts, Cabinet Member for Economy and Infrastructure said: “Christmas Lights Switch on is a definite highlight of Kilmarnock’s year. It’s always a great day with crowds coming out to shop and be entertained while they do so, and nothing beats that magic moment when the lights are switched on.

“Christmas is such an important time of year for our town centres, so many of our retailers, coffee shops, pubs and restaurants rely on the extra business they get at this time of year and events such as the Christmas Lights Switch on are a fun way to remind people just what is available locally. Town Centres all over the country are changing rapidly with the growth of online shopping and the demise of many big chains, but there’s still a place for the high street as a place to meet,  great, eat, enjoy and browse.  The one thing we have is lots of locally run, individual businesses offering great service and we all need to give them our support.

“Our town centre really does belong to us all, and our many community partners, Kilmarnock Business Association and Celebrate Kilmarnock are all working hard to support events, festivals and small retailers. Of course parking in our car parks is free at weekends as always.  By coming out and enjoying Christmas Shopping in Kilmarnock this year we’re all helping to make the most of the town and boost our local economy.”