After three years, Helston will welcome in the festive season once again with its annual Christmas lights switch on this November.

Due to the Covid pandemic restrictions the last time the event was held was in 2019.

Although the Christmas lights were put up, there wasn’t the usual large crowd throughout Helston town counting down for the lights to be switched on followed by fireworks at the Bowling Green.

Falmouth Packet: Fireworks after lights were switched on in 2019Fireworks after lights were switched on in 2019 (Image: Kate Lockett)

But this year, the events will be back. Helston Christmas Lights Committee took to its social media page to make the announcement: "This time in six weeks our town will be full of Christmas trees, twinkly lights, and fabulous festive displays!

"BIG SWITCH ON FRIDAY NOVEMBER 25TH -

"More details to be announced very soon".

It's not only the Christmas lights that bring people into the town, as there are other attractions to see and do.

Some of the shops usually stay open later, and in the past there have been food and drinks vans, reindeer and even Father Christmas himself popping by to say hello - although details for what is happening this year are still to be announced. 

For many, it’s been an event that has been missed leading up to Christmas. But this year for two local families, it will be even more special.

Katie Bragg, 27, and her children Alfie, four, and Ashley, aged one, have recently moved into Helston and this year they will be able to walk into the town for the light switch on, and for the children to experience the evening festivities.

Katie said: “We only drove through the town last year to see them once they were on.

“We can't wait to see them in person, especially as we live just outside the town as well.”

And for another family, it will be a welcome return for a family tradition that one of them hasn’t seen before.

Melanie Pain, 27 has taken her two children Maiah, seven, and Lucas, five, into town for the big light switch-on as part of a tradition for eldest daughter Maiah’s birthday which is in November. But this year, there will be another addition joining the festivities.  Baby Sophia is two months old and will see the lights lit up for the first time.

“We can't wait for Helston Christmas lights this year.

“The last couple of years haven't felt Christmassy without them. The switch on is around Maiah's birthday and it's a tradition to take her down to see them. This year we have a new addition joining us,” Melanie said.

For more information about the Christmas lights switch on, visit Helston Christmas Lights Facebook page.