York Christmas lights switch-on cancelled for the second year running

There will be no Christmas lights switch-on event in York city centre again this year.

It will be the second year running that the event has been cancelled.

Although most Covid restrictions have been relaxed, city leaders have taken the view that it would be safer not to encourage crowds to gather to watch the festive illuminations go on.

A spokesperson for Make It York said: “After much consideration the decision has been taken in partnership with York BID not to hold a physical light switch on event this year.

“The event is always hugely popular, drawing in large crowds over a short period of time – and to ensure the safety of all visitors and residents we will instead focus on showcasing our winter light scheme via our online channels.

“The lights will of course be as spectacular as ever across the city centre – with the medieval bars once again lit up, the Tree of Light at the Eye of York and Christmas trees on St Helen’s Square, Parliament Street and Shambles Market. 

“We hope to be able to bring this much-loved event back for 2022 better than ever.” 

Last night, the Coppergate Centre held a secret switch-on of its Christmas lights, with panto stars Berwick Kaler and Martin Barrass.

Hosted by Victoria Charles of YorkMix Radio, this was live streamed on the YorkMix Facebook page so people could watch from the comfort of their own homes.