With the early winter gloom upon us, what better way to face the dark nights than Frome’s fabulous Christmas Lights Switch On? Expect fun, sparkling singing, dazzling processions, late night shopping and hundreds of original lanterns this Friday. 
A crowded Market Place will officially welcome the advent of Christmas from 5.00pm and the Jamma de Samba drummers will lead a community lantern parade from St. John’s church. This year we are expecting well over a thousand lanterns, which have all been made by members of the public in community workshops paid for by the Peoples’ Budget. How good is that?
Selwood Choir will start the entertainment and Rock Choir will follow them, with their original take on festive songs. Rare Species will then warm up the crowd with Mojo Moves before the lantern parade. Frome Town Band and Songbirds will lead the carols and everyone can join in – song sheets will be provided.
Rachel Clarke, who led the successful world record-breaking attempt for the most number of rowers rowing 500 metres in 24 hours, will be switching on the lights from the George Hotel balcony. Rachel used the world record-breaking attempt to raise money for the Frome cancer charity We Hear You (WHY). She is a tireless community minded citizen and I am really pleased that she has agreed to do the switch on for us.
There will also be food stalls, face painters, children’s rides and a bucket collection by Fair Frome to support Frome’s Big Christmas Get Together. Late night shopping includes the wonderful Cheese and Grain Christmas Extravaganza Market until 9pm.
Thanks to the George Hotel who have allowed the use of their balcony and Café Number 5 who will be the lost children and emergency centre for the night.
But finally, thanks to the people of Frome – it’s going to be a zinger!
