Stirling’s annual Christmas Lights switch-on will have some added star power this year thanks to former Britain’s Got Talent winner, Jai McDowall.
The singer is currently recording his latest album and will headline the festive event in Stirling City Centre on Sunday, November 18.
Ayrshire born McDowall won the fifth season of Britain’s Got Talent, capturing the hearts of the nation with his powerhouse vocals and natural charm.
The entertainment programme will also include performances from Ariana Grande tribute act, ‘Simply Ariana,’ fronted by Gemma Lamont. Gemma is a multi-talented professional singer, dancer and choreographer who will bring the music and magic of superstar Ariana to Stirling.
The Big Noise Orchestra will be performing in the City Centre and a second performance stage on Friars Street will also showcase young local bands and musicians.
The festive celebrations officially kick-off at 2pm on Sunday, November 18, with a range of musical and festive entertainment. The City will also welcome the return of the Stirling Santa Parade, with Santa and his reindeer outside the Albert Halls at 2pm, ready to set off through the City centre before finishing back at The Albert Halls.
Capital Scotland will be keeping everybody entertained with festive tunes from the foot of King Street from 2.10pm onwards.
As well as competitions and giveaways with the Capital Scotland presenters, there will be live music performances throughout the afternoon right up until the Christmas Lights Switch on at 5.00pm, then Jai will keep the party going until 5.40pm.
Councillor Chris Kane, convenor of the Council’s Community Planning and Regeneration Committee, said: “The Christmas lights switch-on really is a special event that brings some festive cheer to the City centre.
“It’s the catalyst for the countdown to Christmas for our local businesses and also helps brighten up the dark nights which are coming in as winter approaches.
“This year’s event boasts another jam-packed line up with local and national talent and also comes hot on the heels of the reopening of the Kerse Road Bridge, improving access to the city just in time for both local residents and visitors from outside Stirling.
“I’m really looking forward to supporting the event on the day and watching as Stirling City centre gets its Christmas glow for another year.”
The Stirling Winter Festival campaign is also supported by a dedicated website www.stirlingwinterfestival.com where residents and visitors can stay up-to-date with all of Stirling’s Festive offering, including soon to be released details of Stirling’s Hogmanay.
Councillor Maureen Bennison, vice convenor of Community Planning, added: “Events like this are a great way to bring the community together, especially with so much entertainment on offer.
“Christmas is such a special time and it’ll be great to see the City centre shining brightly as the festive period gets underway.
“Hopefully we’ll have a good turnout and can kick off the countdown to Christmas in style.”