The highly anticipated 2020 Richmond town centre Christmas Lights Switch On will take place on Thursday November 26th at 5pm – though this year it will be online.

Due to Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, the hugely popular community event will be shown this year via a live webcast on YouTube.

The lights will be switched on by local ‘lockdown hero’ Nick Botting, landlord of the Angel & Crown in Church Walk. During the UK’s first lockdown, Nick and his team fed and helped homeless and vulnerable people in the borough.

Viewers will be able to watch the lights being illuminated all around the town, which are paid for by Richmond businesses who are members of Be Richmond.

Richmond and Twickenham Times:

The evening’s line-up includes:

  • A festive jive from Richmond-based Strictly Pro, Andrew Cuerden
  • Music and dance by Ibstock Place School
  • Carols from children at St Richards School
  • Festive Tunes from the Richmond Music Trust
  • Seasonal Songs sung by the Richmond Corporate Choir
  • Festive shout outs to local children from Santa.
  • A seasonal message from Richmond Mayor Councillor Geoff Acton.

For safety reasons, all entertainment will be pre-recorded in safe, socially distanced environments.

Be Richmond Manager, Ellen Amorina Storrar, said:

“We know that many towns are cancelling Christmas this year because of Covid-19 restrictions. However, we were determined to find a safe way to recreate this showpiece event.

“We want to support our businesses by keeping Richmond in the spotlight and highlighting the quality and breadth of the retail and hospitality offer in the town centre area ready for when lockdown restrictions are lifted. We may not have the atmosphere of the crowds at the Lights Switch On this year, but people can still enjoy a great community event from the comfort of their own home via the device of their choice”.