Nelson Town Council launches festive bauble design competition for the Christmas Lights Switch On
Published: 11 November 2025
Nelson Town Council have launched an exciting new competition as part of this year’s free-to-attend Nelson Christmas Lights Switch On celebrations, which will take place on Saturday 22nd November from 12pm to 5:30pm in the town centre.
Competition cards are being delivered to local schools, inviting more than 4,000 children from nurseries and primary schools across Nelson to take part in a Bauble Colouring Competition. Each child is encouraged to get creative and decorate a festive bauble design, with entries being collected from schools on Monday 17th November.
The winning designs will be chosen ahead of the big day, and the three lucky winners will each receive a fantastic Christmas hamper, presented live on the main stage at approximately 3:55pm during the Christmas Lights Switch On event.
Cllr Faraz Ahmad, Chair of Nelson Town Council, said: “It’s so important to us that our local children and schools are right at the heart of this celebration. The bauble competition is a wonderful way to showcase the amazing creativity and talent we have here in Nelson. We can’t wait to see all the fantastic designs our young artists come up with!”
The prize presentation will form part of a fun-filled day of festive activities, attractions and entertainment across the town centre. Visitors can look forward to a vibrant Christmas market featuring street food and craft stalls, offering everything from delicious seasonal treats to unique gift ideas. Families will also be able to enjoy the funfair, a magical visit to Santa’s Grotto and the Barnoldswick Brass Band, who will be performing at 1pm and 2pm.
Free selection boxes will be handed out from the Santa’s Grotto (available on a first come, first served basis) courtesy of sponsors BRSK.
Music and performances will fill the main stage throughout the day. This year’s entertainment includes a show-stopping performance from headline act K-Dot, an incredible Taylor Swift tribute, a high-energy set from rock, R&B and rap duo Kulturess, dazzling Christmas dancers from Desi Nach, and the powerful beats of the Harrington Learning Centre Dhol Drummers. The Helen Green Academy of Dance will also take to the stage, alongside a Frozen sing-along and meet-and-greet with the beloved characters, plus a special performance from local singing star Caitlyn Holt.
Hosting the festivities will be Gavin Young, who will keep the crowd entertained with festive fun, Christmas classics and plenty of community spirit as the town counts down to the magical moment when Nelson’s Christmas lights are officially switched on.
The Nelson Christmas Lights Switch On is sponsored by Nelson Town Council.
For more information, visit the Nelson Town Council website and follow Nelson Town Council Events on social media.
You can learn more about selection box sponsors BRSK on their website: https://www.brsk.co.uk/