The Christmas countdown was kicked off in Keswick on Friday, November 15 with the town council's light switch on bringing joy to the thousands who turned out for the sparkly event.
![Crowds in Keswick]()
Crowds in Keswick (Image: NQ staff) The celebrations kicked off late afternoon when the St Herbert's School choir entertained crowds in Packhorse Court, before the lights were turned on in the popular area of town.
Music was then a feature of the main square before the town's lights were turned on by local fundraisers Duncan and Yvonne Booth, who have dedicated their lives to fundraising for the MS society.
![The stage was set in the town centre for the Keswick Light Switch on]()
The stage was set in the town centre for the Keswick Light Switch on (Image: NQ staff) On Saturday, November 17 it was the turn of Maryport to see in the festive season. Fun and Christmas activities were held throughout the day in the town, before two children from each of Maryport and Flimby Primary schools joined the mayor on stage, ably assisted by Maryport Santa, to help switch on the lights.
![Youngsters perform at the light switch on in Maryport]()
Youngsters perform at the light switch on in Maryport (Image: Maryport Town Council)Mayor of Maryport Linda Radcliffe said: "As the switch-on time drew closer, the crowds stretched back to the junction with Crosby Street and the level of excitement amongst children mounted.
"Traders and hospitality venues were extremely happy with the extra trade that was generated through the influx of people. A straw poll showed that the Maryport lights, which are beautiful, have been fully endorsed by the local community.”
![Even the grinch showed out to celebrate in Cockermouth.]()
Even the grinch showed out to celebrate in Cockermouth (Image: Cockermouth Town Council)The weekend was then finished off by Cockermouth Town Council, which hosted its annual Christmas fun day and light switched on, on Main Street in the town.
Stall holders were on the street throughout the day, providing face painting and amusements to all those in attendance.
The town council paid a special thank you to Iggesund Holmen Group for donating three Christmas trees to the town again for 2024, as well as all of those who helped to make the 'day a wonderful success'.
![There were many out to see the lights be turned on in Cockermouth.]()
There were many out to see the lights be turned on in Cockermouth. (Image: Cockermouth Town Council)
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