Thousands celebrate the Enniskillen and Omagh Christmas Light Switch on Events 

The streets of Enniskillen and Omagh were buzzing with Christmas spirit as thousands of people came together for the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Christmas Lights Switch On events on Saturday 25 November 2023. The day was filled with Christmas carols, music and performances by community groups finishing with the Christmas Lights Switch on which took place at 5.30 pm.

There were performances by local bands including St Eugene’s Brass and Reed Band, St Mary’s Silver Band and Ballyreagh Silver Band who got everyone into the festive spirit.  Duncan Hyndman, Skyzdalimit, Fermanagh Brightstars, St Kevin’s College Lisnaskea Choir and Ceil Band, St Joseph’s Primary School and Drumquin Choir all added a touch of Christmas magic to the day.

The Elf trail for families was a great success in both towns.  Families followed the clues in shops and businesses around the town centres locating the names of each of the Elves.  After completing the trail children entered the free draw with the chance to win a Family Ticket to the Pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, in Strule Arts Centre or the Ardhowen Theatre.

Children also enjoyed festive face painting and interacted with the Christmas characters as they strolled through the streets of Enniskillen and Omagh.

Special Guest comperes, Bryan Gallagher was in Enniskillen and Brian McNamee in Omagh.  They extended a warm welcome to everyone as they introduced performances from local schools and community groups who entertained the crowd with their festive favourites.

In Enniskillen, the popular local band the ‘Hand Me Downs’, and in Omagh, rising star and talented, Andrew Dolan, also keep the town entertained.  Then the man of the season, Santa arrived to help everyone count down to the Christmas Lights Switch on at 5.30 pm.  Following the switch on there was a short singalong of festive family favourites for everyone to join in, while Santa made his way through the crowds wishing everyone a very merry Christmas.

The event marked the start of Christmas for many and brought thousands of people into both towns supporting the local retail and hospitality sectors.

Speaking at the Switch On events, Councillor AnnMarie Donnelly and Councillor Stephen McCann, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council Vice Chair and Committee Chair respectively, thanked the local performers for the excellent entertainment throughout the afternoon stating that it added an extra special community feel to the event.  They also thanked everyone for coming out to support the event and encouraged them to shop local this festive season to support the local businesses.  In closing, they wished everyone a Happy Christmas and Best Wishes for the New Year.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council are seeking feedback on the event from those that attended and from local businesses.  To provide feedback, visit the Events and Festivals section of the Council’s website.