RHYL will the celebrate the switching on of the town’s Christmas lights for 2023 tomorrow (November 25).

Organised by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, a programme of events has been organised to celebrate the day, running from 2pm until 5pm.

The Christmas lights will be switched on at the town’s High Street at about 4pm that afternoon, while there will also be festival songs and games courtesy of DJ, Paul Crawford.

Turning on the lights will be cast members of Rhyl’s Christmas pantomime, “Jack and the Beanstalk”, as well as Rhyl mayor, Cllr Jacquie McAlpine.

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Cast members include pop star Chico, “Allo 'Allo!” actor Arthur Bostrom, Casualty star Amanda Henderson, The Bill actor Graham Cole, Britain’s Got Talent finalists Jamie and Chuck, and Hollyoaks actress Amy-Jane Ollies.

This family event is free for people to enjoy, while crowds will also be able to enjoy themed dancers, face painting, balloon modellers, a street entertainer, and a 9ft “Glo-Bot”.

A total of £31,573 has been agreed to be spent on Christmas lights by Rhyl Town Council, provided by Blachere Illuminations, with an additional £5,000 set aside to cover any unforeseen costs that arise.

On November 26, the day after Rhyl’s Christmas lights are turned on, the town will host its “Christmas Pops” concert at the Pavilion Theatre.

Performing at Christmas Pops will be “Ska Britannia”, an eight-piece ska tribute band, Jackie Marie as Diana Ross, and country singer and musician Peter McKeown.

This starts at 5pm, with doors opening at 4pm, and free tickets can be claimed from the Pavilion Theatre’s box office (limited to four tickets per household)

You can also book a pre-theatre lunch at the 1891 bar and restaurant.

Jamie Groves, managing director of Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to be collaborating with Rhyl Town Council to provide a weekend of free entertainment for families in Rhyl!

“Denbighshire Leisure is committed to providing affordable family fun and believe that bringing our community together is so important, especially during the holiday season, so we’re putting on these two events for free again this year.

“What better way to enjoy the Christmas build up with all the family, with the Christmas light switch-on on the Saturday, followed by some festive music at the Christmas Pops concert on the Sunday!”

Cllr Jacquie McAlpine added: “The return of the Rhyl Christmas lights switch-on welcomes in the festive season and provides fantastic free outdoor entertainment for everyone to enjoy. 

“The afternoon promises to be unmissable with a terrific line-up of TV personalities, street performers, and music to launch the light up of the town centre. 

“Rhyl Town Council is proud to assist in funding this community event and is this year launching a brand-new set of illuminations. 

“Be sure to come along and join the festivities and illuminations display that is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit.

“The run-up to Christmas marks the welcome return of this hugely popular free evening of iconic music. 

“As in previous years, Rhyl Town Council is delighted and committed to providing financial support to Denbighshire Leisure Ltd for this fantastic evening of entertainment. 

“The variety of acts lined up to perform are guaranteed to provide a memorable and energetic evening of entertainment for all concert-goers.”