The Christmas season gets into full swing in Batley this Friday – 28 November – with the always popular Christmas lights switch on event. Held as ever in the marketplace, there will be plenty for visitors to see and do.

The Christmas market returns once more with lots of stalls selling treats and goodies. Ideal for Christmas presents, and for that much deserved treat for yourself. On the main stage there will be a continuous programme of entertainment with local singers and dance groups performing. The big man himself, Father Christmas, will be in his grotto from 16:00 onwards getting Christmas lists and giving out toys and gifts, but only if you have been good.

But Santa’s duties do not end there because he will then be on the stage for the big switch on at 19:30 together with the Mayor of Kirklees.

This is always a very busy and popular event so be sure to get down nice and early to make sure that you get to see everything and are in prime place for that Christmas countdown.

The event is brought to you by the Batley Business Association and is organised and run entirely by volunteers, especially Batley’s own Mr Christmas – Richard Martin – who has been leading the organisation of this event for very many years now.