By Meliza Sestito
Photography: Matthew Atherton
Thousands of people gathered in Albert Square this weekend to celebrate Manchester’s Christmas Lights being switched on with umbrellas and warm clothes in tow.
In true Mancunian style, the rain didn’t stop anyone singing and dancing along to performances from Sigala, Pixie Lott and Manchester boy band, Yes Lad, at this year’s celebrations.
The event also featured sneak peeks of upcoming Manchester Christmas shows, Guys and Dolls at the Royal Exchange Theatre and Shrek Live at the Palace Theatre, commencing this December and January.
Credit: Matt Atherton
The annual event is organised by Manchester City Council and this year was hosted by Key 103 stars Mike Toolan and Matt Haslam together with Coronation Street star Brooke Vincent, as Key 103’s own Gemma Atkinson is currently starring on Strictly Come Dancing!
Pixie Lott performed her chart topping hits as well as a stunning version of ‘White Christmas’ for the festive crowds.
Albert Square reached full capacity 50 minutes into the event with a staggering 20,000 people in attendance. Some eager fans had been waiting since the early afternoon in order to get the best view of the stage for the live performances.
A wedding party even joined in with the fun, and the bride and groom had their pictures taken in front of ‘Zippy’, the market’s infamous Santa, as the fireworks commenced.
Credit: Matt Atherton
Ben Forster and Liz McClarnon who play Buddy and Jovie in Elf: The Musical, which will open at The Lowry Theatre later this month, arrived to the stage in style via a sleigh complete with real reindeers.
Credit: Matthew Atherton
The evening ended with the performers joining the hosts on stage and the traditional countdown followed by a breathtaking fireworks display.
It was definitely a night to remember!
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