More than £22,000 has been raised towards spreading festive cheer in Callander this year as the town gears up for the big switch-on. The town goes all out each year to transform into a winter wonderland. And this year is no different as they get set to extend the traditional lights along the main route through the town.
Final preparations are being made for the switch-on of the new lights. Following numerous positive comments about the lights in Ancaster Square last year, the organisers – Richard and Mary Johnson – are planning to extend the lights all along Main Street this year. The lights in Ancaster Square have all been renewed and will be hung around the trees and buildings in the Square.
The Christmas tree will again be the centrepiece in the Square, and there will also be six new artificial trees with lights on. Along Main Street, there will be wraparound lighting braids on each of the 30 lamp-posts – from Station Road to Bracklinn Road. BEAR Scotland has been contracted to upgrade all of the lamp-posts so that the lights can be safely connected, and a specialist company will install the lights.
A switch-on festival will be held on Saturday, November 30, with a parade led by two alpacas and Santa’s Sleigh leaving the Medical Centre at 3.30 pm. Richard said: “All of the children in the parade will be given a lantern to carry along to Ancaster Square where Callander Brass will be playing Christmas carols. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served, and there will be a stall with popcorn and candy floss. One of the new artificial trees will become a Memorial Tree where people can hang baubles in memory of loved ones.”
Fundraising for the new lights started in the summer, and so far the total raised is £22,000. Grants totalling £17,000 have been secured from local organisations, a scheme to ‘sponsor a lamp-post’ has raised £4,000, and crowd-funding has raised the final £1,000. Residents and business owners in the community have been very supportive, and an army of volunteers is ready to help with putting up the lights and at the switch-on event.
The town of Callander is buzzing with excitement as they prepare for the annual festive switch-on event. With more than £20,000 raised, the organisers are pulling out all the stops to make this year’s light display even more spectacular than before. The community spirit is shining brightly as residents and businesses come together to support this magical tradition.
Callander’s transformation into a winter wonderland is a sight to behold, with new lights adorning the streets and buildings, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. The upcoming switch-on festival promises to be a joyous occasion, complete with a festive parade and entertainment for all ages. It’s heartwarming to see the community unite in bringing holiday cheer to everyone in Callander.
In conclusion, the festive season in Callander is not just about lights and decorations; it’s a time for coming together, spreading joy, and creating lasting memories. The dedication and support of everyone involved in making this event a success truly embody the spirit of the holidays.