Community spirit outshines rain at Gainsborough Christmas Lights Festival

The one-day event on Friday, November 14, saw Market Place come alive with light displays, a funfair, live music, street theatre, Santa’s grotto and two elves called Figgy and Pudding, who were there to ‘spread Christmas joy and make sure everyone’s on the nice list.’

The festive highlights included musical performances by local schools, live music from talented local bands and artists, plus giant juggling elves, Mr Twist the balloon man and Inka the Polar, who all interacted with the crowds to create a wonderful atmosphere and entertain people of all ages.

Cast members from the Cinderella panto, which is being staged at Trinity Arts Centre, were also providing some great entertainment on the evening, taking to the stage to join in the festive fun.

This year’s production is from the same team that wowed audiences with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 2024, as well as 2023’s Jack & The Beanstalk, and The Wizard of Oz three years ago.

The panto takes to the stage at the Gainsborough-based theatre on December 12, with dates right up until December 31, you can book tickets here Cinderella Pantomime tickets.

Elsewhere in the town, Silver Street was bustling with market stalls and food and drink vendors, while Gainsborough Town Council hosted Dowse’s funfair in Bridge Street Car Park

Gainsborough businesses joined in with the festivities by staying open late and welcoming visitors with special offers and a little shelter from the rain.

Visitors could stay warm with a hot chocolate and delicious hot food, thanks to the array of vendors that lined the streets.

Mark and Shirell of Green’s Hot Chocolate, said they were happy to have seen so many people turn out despite the weather.

Mark said: “I’m surprised how many people there were – we didn’t know there would be that many. The weather is beyond anyone’s control, so we can’t complain at all. The organisers did a really good job, as always.”

Shirell added: “I think everyone who came out to join in and visit needs a big ‘well done’ for coming out and supporting us.”

The event was a partnership between West Lindsey District Council and Gainsborough Town Council.

Coun Jacob Flear, ward member for Gainsborough East said: “It was great to see so many people around given the forecast.”

Coun Jim See, ward member for Gainsborough North, said: “This event has grown year on year and has become a Gainsborough tradition.

“Gainsborough folk always turn out in numbers, no matter the weather.”

Coun Mandy Snee, ward member for Gainsborough North added: “The the weather clearly hadn’t dampened anyone’s spirits.”

Despite the moody weather, visitors came out in high spirits and enjoyed all the festive celebrations.

A particular highlight among the young visitors were the traditional funfair attractions in the Market Place.

West Lindsey District Council were delighted to once again offer funfair attractions at the subsidised rate of just 50p per token, ensuring affordable entertainment for all families.

Thomas, who attended the show with his wife, Lucy, his mum Candy, his brother Matt, and his children Olivia and Daniel, said: “We were coming anyway, regardless of the rain.

“We come every year and we always have a great night.”

Cara Markham, Commercial, Culture and Leisure manager at West Lindsey District Council, said: “Despite the challenging weather our Christmas Lights Festival was a great evening.

“The event remained safe and low risk. Communities, performers and traders all wrapped up warm and came together to enjoy the festivities, which was great to see.

“I want to give a big thank you to the cultural officers who created such a fun and varied programme and our business sponsors that helped fund the activities.

“The highlight for me this year was Inka the Polar Bear and our juggling Elves, which everyone loved, both young and old.

“Seeing so many people coming out and enjoying themselves really demonstrated great community spirit.”

Sally Grindrod-Smith, director of Planning, Regeneration and Communities at West Lindsey District Council, described the Christmas Lights event as a ‘true showcase of our community coming together.’

She said: “It was fantastic to see pupils from our local schools performing on the stage and visitors enjoying the festive fayre and supporting local businesses.

“As well as creating happy memories, these events bring people to our town and are an important part of creating a vibrant and sustainable place.

“We are grateful for the huge amount of support received this week despite the weather.

“We are also grateful to our sponsors; without their backing these events would not take place.”