Hamilton’s biggest-ever Christmas programme is set to kick off in 2024, as the town gears up for a festive season full of special events. The town will host its new Hamilton Loves Christmas week, alongside the return of Comic Con after a five-year hiatus. The celebrations will commence on November 16 and 17 and will culminate with the town’s Christmas lights switch-on by Paralympic champion Steph McGuire on November 23.
Organised by the local development organisation Hamilton Our Town, the festive events will include Christmas markets, a pop-up panto performance, and the switching on of the Regent Centre’s Christmas lights. More than 70 traders will participate in an arts and craft market, offering a wide range of products from jewellery and beauty accessories to handmade crafts and charity stalls.
The festive weekend will also see the return of BCGP Comic Con to Hamilton, featuring attractions such as appearances by Marvel and DC superheroes, Star Wars characters, giant inflatables, retro arcade machines, and more. The event aims to bring fun and excitement to the town for both residents and visitors.
Hamilton Loves Christmas week will conclude with a special day of festivities on November 23, leading up to the town’s Christmas lights switch-on. The day will feature a parade, entertainment by local performers, a Christmas market, and the presentation of the Hamilton hero awards. The week-long celebration aims to highlight and support local businesses, organisations, and individuals throughout the festive season.
In addition to the scheduled events, markets will continue at the Regent Centre on December 7 and 21, accompanied by a pop-up panto and a town centre trail featuring Santa. The Wizard of Oz panto by Halo Arts is expected to be a highlight for families, with tickets already in high demand.
Malcolm Thomas-Harley of Hamilton Our Town expressed excitement for the festive events, stating that they are working hard to make this year’s Christmas celebrations the most successful yet. Encouraging the community to shop local and support businesses in the town centre, the organisers aim to create a vibrant and festive atmosphere for all to enjoy this Christmas season.
Summary:
Hamilton is gearing up for its most exciting Christmas programme yet in 2024, with a lineup of events that promise festive cheer and entertainment for all. The town will host a series of activities, including Christmas markets, a pop-up panto, and the return of Comic Con, culminating in the Christmas lights switch-on by Paralympic champion Steph McGuire. The celebrations aim to support local businesses and create a vibrant atmosphere in the town centre throughout the festive season.