Traffic and travel information ahead of this year’s Christmas light switch-on in Strabane

STRABANE is set to sparkle once again as the town comes alive for its annual Christmas lights switch-on on Saturday, November 22.

This year’s festivities promise a full afternoon of family fun, festive markets, live entertainment, and community cheer from 12pm to 5.30pm.

The celebrations will reach their magical finale at 5pm, when Santa Claus takes to the Main Stage at the top of Railway Street to officially illuminate the Christmas lights.

The afternoon will be hosted by Chrissy Mac, who will keep the crowd entertained with live music, festive banter and performances from local talent.

To ensure the safe delivery of the event, a number of temporary road closures and traffic management measures will be in place. Railway Street, from Abercorn Square to John Wesley Street, along with Castle Street and Canal Street, will be fully closed to traffic from 7am until 7pm.

The main event area, including Castle Street, Abercorn Square and Railway Street, will host the full programme of live entertainment, family activities and festive attractions throughout the afternoon, with the popular Countdown to the Christmas lights beginning at 5pm.

Clearly signed diversion routes will operate throughout the day, and additional temporary restrictions may be introduced if required for public safety, particularly during the Countdown period.

The Canal Street Bus Stop will be out of operation for the day, and all services will instead run from the Bradley Way Bus Depot.

In support of local traders and to encourage increased footfall in the town centre, Derry City and Strabane District Council is also pleased to confirm that free off-street parking will be available in all Council-owned car parks on selected dates during the festive shopping period.

This initiative follows successful lobbying by Strabane BID, which advocated for the return of free parking in the lead-up to Christmas.

Free parking will begin this Saturday to coincide with the Christmas lights switch-on, and will continue on November 23 an 30, and on December 7, 14 and 21.

The offer applies to council-operated off-street car parks only and does not extend to on-street parking, where normal restrictions will remain in place.

Car parks included in this initiative such as Canal Street, John Wesley Street, Butcher Street and Upper Main Street will remain open and free for use throughout the designated dates.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, councillor Ruairí McHugh, encouraged the public to come out and enjoy the celebrations.

“The Strabane Christmas lights switch-on is one of the highlights of our festive calendar, bringing families, friends and the entire community together to celebrate the start of the Christmas season," he said.

"With live music, local performers, markets and Santa himself joining the fun, it promises to be a wonderful day for all. I’d encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with the traffic and travel information and to make use of the free off-street parking available throughout the festive period.

"It’s fantastic to see this initiative return and gives us all a chance to support our local shops and restaurants as much as possible.

"Make the most of the festive season - shop local, dine local, and enjoy everything Strabane has to offer.”

Normal on-street parking restrictions will continue to apply, and drivers are reminded not to park in a way that blocks access to homes or businesses or obstructs emergency routes.

Full access for emergency services will be maintained at all times as agreed with relevant agencies.

For further information on road closures or traffic arrangements, the public can contact the Strabane Christmas lights event management team at Derry City and Strabane District Council on 028 71253253 or by emailing events@derrystrabane.com.

Up-to-date details, including entertainment schedules and public advisories, can also be found at:

www.derrystrabane.com/christmas.