Winchester’s Lights Are Back On!

The festive season has officially returned to Winchester after the Christmas lights were switched for another year.

This year it was Winchester Hospice who were voted the local heroes and were given the honour of switching on the lights.

Every year, the people of Winchester get to nominate and vote for those who do remarkable things in and around the city to become local heroes and spread the Christmas spirit. 

Also at the event was live performances from local groups such as: Harestock Primary School Choir, Intergr8 Dance, Diva Academy, The Pilgrims’ School Chamber Choir, Spitfire Sisters, Winchester A Capella, Theatre Royal Winchester and Winchester Rock Choir.

Thousands of people gathered outside the Guildhall for the explosive moment!

Jonny Meah, Heart radio presenter, hosted the event once again and said: “Winchester is always brilliant, the crowds are always fantastic, always up for Christmas, but this year it’s a whole different level.”

Santa also made an appearance up on stage and in the square with his sleigh and snow globe for children and families to enjoy. All donations from the two are being made to Spare Change for Lasting Change, Winchester BID’s charity scheme which helps to reduce street begging and rough sleeping in the city through two local charities, The Winchester Beacon and Trinity Winchester. 

Paul Spencer from Winchester BID said: “Every year it’s about bringing the community together, it’s that key thing in the diary every year that kickstarts the festive season throughout the city of Winchester.”