Residents of Callander have come together to spread festive cheer and raise an impressive £22,000 to enhance the town’s Christmas lights display. The town has a tradition of transforming into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, and this year is no exception, with plans to extend the lights along the main street.
The organisers, Richard and Mary Johnson, have received positive feedback from last year’s lights in Ancaster Square and are now aiming to extend the display along Main Street. The lights in Ancaster Square have been refurbished and will be adorned on trees and buildings. Additionally, a Christmas tree will take centre stage in the Square, accompanied by six new artificial trees with lights.
Along Main Street, wrap-around lighting braids will be installed on each of the 30 lamp-posts from Station Road to Bracklinn Road. BEAR Scotland has been enlisted to upgrade the lamp-posts for safe connectivity, with a specialist company tasked with the installation of the lights.
The festive celebrations will culminate in a switch-on festival scheduled for Saturday, November 30, featuring a parade led by two alpacas and Santa’s Sleigh departing from the Medical Centre at 3.30pm. The event will include a lantern procession to Ancaster Square, where Callander Brass will perform Christmas carols, accompanied by refreshments and festive stalls.
Fundraising efforts for the new lights began in the summer and have seen contributions from local organisations, a ‘sponsor a lamp-post’ scheme, and crowdfunding. Richard expressed gratitude towards the supportive residents, business owners, and volunteers who have made the festive plans possible.
In conclusion, the community spirit and generosity displayed by the residents of Callander in raising funds for a more extensive Christmas lights display truly encapsulate the festive season’s essence. The town’s dedication to spreading joy and embracing the holiday spirit is evident in their collaborative efforts to create a magical winter wonderland for all to enjoy.