Join us for this year’s ‘Christmas Lights Switch On’ on Friday 17^th November, with the fun starting at 4.30pm! Newmarket’s High Street will transform into a fun fare of magic, with rides suitable for all ages, meet and greet with some of your favourite superheroes, and enjoy performances from a wide range of local talents.

This year’s nominated heroes, Paula Roberts and Michael Bonham, will be turning on the lights at 7pm to mark the start of the festive season! Nominated through an online search, Paula is a well-known figure in the racing industry spending many years working for the trainer Sir Michael Stoute. This remarkable lady has shown courage in adversity with her continuing fight against cancer. In spite of health issues, she is both passionate and influential in her commitment to Newmarket Allotment Association and in particular the Field Terrace Road site. Managed solely by Paula she has continued to make gardening accessible to all members of the community. Supporting and encouraging both regular and newcomers alike she gives her wealth of knowledge freely and with a smile. Dependable, reliable, inspirational and a friend to many, she can be truly called a Local Hero.

Michael, who also received his nomination through the online voting campaign, has been championed for his commitment to the local community through his business, Driving Miss Daisy. Helping the older generation gain independence and support, Michael also aids disabled family members on medical appointments and getting SEN children to school. He was nominated for this commitment, which despite his own serious health concerns and conditions of late, he continues to shine. He wants his legacy to be that his customers are able to live more fulfilling lives through using the Driving Miss Daisy service. He is thrilled to have been chosen & it’ll be another cherished memory for his 8 grandchildren.

Leading up to the switch on, visitors can enjoy performances from the children of Fairstead School, a dance act from Vogue Athletics, songs from the Encanto characters, a performance from the Newmarket’s Got Talent winner, songs from Serena Grant and so much more.

This year we are also pleased to welcome a Christmas Craft Market along Sun Lane, and a Food Market outside the Rutland Arms Hotel, allowing all to discover some new local talents, whilst enjoying the tastes of Christmas.

Thank you to this year’s sponsors – Newmarket Town Council, Tattersalls and Jockey Club Estates.

PLEASE NOTE:

Toilets will be open outside the Memorial Hall all evening. Further toilets are available until 7pm at The Guineas Shopping Centre.

Free parking is available at all town centre car parks from 4pm.

No vehicle access will be possible through the High Street from 12 noon.