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Ilkley's magical Christmas lights switch on

Monday, 24 November 2025 15:59

The lantern parade arrived in time for the Christmas lights switch on

Ilkley came together for a magical Christmas lights switch on at the weekend.

Ilkley Town Council says it is 'delighted' with the 'tremendous success' of the Christmas event on Saturday, which saw large numbers of residents and visitors come together to celebrate the start of the festive season.

A spokesperson for Ilkley Town Council [ITC] said:

"The event was filled with joy, community spirit, and a spectacular lantern parade that lit up the town centre.

"This year’s gathering was one of the most vibrant yet, and we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making the occasion so special."

[Love Pop Choir]

ITC would like to offer, in no particular order, its sincere thanks to:

  • Everyone who came along to celebrate with us and helped create such a wonderful atmosphere.

  • All the children, families, and schools who poured hours of creativity into making lanterns for the parade.

  • Cecil Green Arts and Banda Na Rua for bringing rhythm, colour, and energy to the procession.

  • The talented local performers who took to the stage with enthusiasm and spirit.

  • Ilkley Bandstand Committee for their invaluable support.

  • Everyone at Christchurch for their assistance and warm hospitality.

  • Isabel Ashman, Ilkley’s excellent Town Crier, for lending her voice to the celebrations.

  • Bradford Markets and the stallholders for helping create a festive marketplace.

  • Your Ilkley Radio for their continued support and coverage.

  • All the volunteers who helped to make the event a success, including David Shaw MBE and all involved with Ilkley Community Network, including volunteers from Ilkley Carnival, Rotary Club of Ilkley Wharfedale, Rotary Ilkley Forward, and Ilkley Pride and Diversity Group.

  • Particular thanks to Tom and George for everything they did on the day

  • And of course, Father Christmas and his elves, who switched on the lights and brought magic, smiles, and excitement to the entire event.

Councillor Jane Gibson, Ilkley Town Mayor said:

“We were delighted to see so many people, old and young, at Saturday's Christmas Lights turn on. The lanterns shone brilliantly in the night. Santa was thrilled to see so many families getting excited for Christmas.

"A big thank you to all who worked to make the event so successful! I wish you all a happy festive season.”

If you missed or want to relive the event, Your Ilkley Radio was there!

There are more videos from the event on the Your Ilkley Facebook page.

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